Make a smart CHOICE

Election day is quickly approaching and I have to write a small blog to encourage each and every one of you to make an informed decision when you cast your vote for the next president of the United States. Recently I was asked to make calls to support a particular candidate, I declined because although I have definitive ideas on who I would like to see as the next President of the US I don't think anyone should tell another person what they should believe in in regards to politics or religion. However, I do feel that there are a lot of resources out there that will allow us all to become more educated about what the politicians really stand for. In our society that is harried and full of sound bites it is IMPOSSIBLE to know what someone stands for unless you do your homework. Unfortunately we are inundated with half truths and lies from various parts of the media and from the candidates themselves. It is a sad state of affairs when you listen to a debate and you have to ask who is telling the truth? One candidate says one thing and the other fervently says the complete opposite. (I wish there was a Truth-O-Meter on the bottom of the TV screen every time there is a debate. That would definitely bring honesty back as a priority!)

I have to admit that up until recently I wasn't particularly informed about either of the candidates and now I am making a concerted effort to try and understand the issues that are important to me. I am writing this in hopes that each of you will take the time to read through the procon.org site to decide what issues are important to you and to see what each candidate believes and what actions they have taken to support that belief. As my mother has said actions speak louder than words.

Although there are many things wrong with our country I still believe that it is the best place to live in the world. Why else would I live here and raise my children in this country? It has given me and my family the opportunity to work hard and be successful in what we have all chosen to do. I also believe that our country is at a critical point in it's history. We need a leader who can turn around our economic crisis, rebuild our relationships with other nations, take care of our own people, and to maintain a decent standard of living and health care for each of us who is willing to participate in the well being of our country. Please take the time to read about who you will cast your vote for. Please don't let party lines, emotions or any type of prejudice guide your decision. This is not a popularity contest, this is the most important job in the world and you owe it to yourself and your country to make a decision that is informed and based on your values. Here are two sites that I have found to be very helpful. I hope you do too.

http://2008election.procon.org/

http://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/