The Home Stretch

Its odd to think that we are 8 days away from electing Barack Obama and Debbie Halvorson. Its been stressful, many times asking myself is it worth it. But now I look at this as the final mile of a marathon much as how I feel many supporters and volunteers may feel right now. We have worked so hard to reach this point but were are in the final stages of what this election season has become and we cannot let up.

2 years ago I would have never thought that I would have had the experiences I have had in the past months volunteering and working in the office to make a change. It sounds corny but I really think this will be one of my fondest memories. I have made some of the best friends and met some of the most amazing people ever since getting involved.

Today down at the office I had renewed hope in what I am working towards. There was a first time volunteer who came into the office today. He was wearing his Obama '08 t-shirt and looking forward to doing what he could. This may not sound out of the ordinary at first, but he was 14. He is unable to vote and will not be able to vote until 2012, yet he still finds Barack Obama to be a captivating person, enough so that he will take time out of his weekend to make phone calls in our last push before election day.

No matter how stressed out I may become, or disheartened by the tedious work, I cannot stop running for this last mile or everything I had worked for in the last months will be all for nothing. This is way to important of an event in history to take a back seat to in the final stages of this race. I will do my best to make sure people get the chance to make the difference they so desire by being able to vote November 4th. This is the only thing we have right now in our power to end the silence of the people for the last 4 years and tell not only the country but also the world that we are striving for change, we need to be better, and that no matter what, the inner strength of the American people cannot and will not be deterred.

Because of my experience I feel that my vote now counts more than just one time, it is also counted for the countless who live in this country who cannot vote due to age, criminal status, or other disenfranchisement of a voter. They are Americans too and I want you realize that your vote is not just your vote, it is a vote for everyone who cannot cast their ballot. If not for your sake, do it for theirs. Its their country, too.