Emily
Mrs. Hodges' class
Maplewood K-8

Have you ever wondered, or even worried about the time when you will be registered to vote? Making the right decision may be hard, but voting can be a positive experience as long as you know your responsibilities as a citizen, your contribution to your country, and how to prepare for voting. Once these become clear, you will be well on your way to being a successful American voter.

Every voter has certain responsibilities as a citizen in America. Since the "majority rules" aspect of a democracy takes place, every vote counts, making each individual voice heard. Take advantage of this opportunity to stand up for what you believe in, and put positive support towards what you think is right. If you choose not to vote, then you have no right to complain about what action is made because you stepped back and let others decide for you. The same reason goes for being involved. If everyone in your country was involved more with what was going on in the country, maybe no one would choose not to vote. Simply reading the newspaper will help you keep up with your country, as well as what has been going on locally.

It is important for citizens to pay good attention to what is going on in their community, including the problems, decisions, and solutions. Always try to be aware of issues, and what you can do to help. For example, if there was a budget problem in your town, make sure the money that you are involved with is being spent wisely. This way, you can also be a part of the ideas that come up and choices that are made for the solutions. Being a part of the result is a good goal, considering that if you choose not to be involved, you are likely to become part of the problem. Be sure to give your input towards solving the problems in your community, two heads are better than one! Being used to speaking your thoughts will help you, and practicing may be necessary ahead of time to be better prepared for voting.

Your voting opportunity should be taken seriously, and you should not be surprised when others are concerned about what you think, as a citizen. By focusing on making positive choices and working to improve matters not only for yourself but for others also, you will be ready to vote before you know it. Making the right decision is rather difficult without knowing anything about the decision you’re making. This is a good reason to research the candidates or possibilities, and find out as much as you can about them. Once you have followed enough speeches, and discovered enough backgrounds, you will probably be confident in your choice. Again, the research is important, and should be taken seriously because your choice will be based on what you’ve learned about each person or proposal. Doing good research requires knowing what to look for in a good leader. Such characteristics may include responsibility, background, intelligence, etc. With all this preparation, voting for what you believe in will be a piece of cake.

Voting can be easy for all Americans if they know their responsibilities as a citizen, make an effort to contribute to their country, and if they are prepared for voting. With those three properties in mind, you will be one of the citizens who have no trouble with voting. You will never again have to worry or ponder about subjects that can be of no bother to you. You are now practically as experienced as those who have been voting for decades. Voters, take your mark, get set, Go!