It's the day after our nation went to the polls to choose, among other elected officials, the President of the United States. Sounds impressive when it's written out: President of the United States. And it should. For better or worse, the President guides the ship of state though whatever waters--murky, calm or stormy--that history serves up at the time. It's a daunting job. I often wonder, Who could possibly want this position?
And yet, every four years, political parties, special interests, friends, neighbors, family and business associates engage in the national debate over who should assume the highest leadership post in the land. The debate ranges from the friendly to the spirited to the enraged. Yes, some of us are disengaged from the process and claim no vested interest in the outcome: They're all jerks is the collective refrain from that corner.
But, despite your feelings about the candidates, their ads, their records, their debate performances or their promises--what happens to your voice if you opt out of the process?
In my humble--and singular--opinion, when you choose not to participate, your voice is, quite simply, silenced--when it matters most.
So why am I addressing this from the vantage point of the therapist's chair?
Well, I work with a variety of clients, many who are striving to be heard: by their children, spouse, boss, friends, the cable company, customer service reps, and, yes, by their government officials. As I have asserted in past posts, being heard is important to us humans. That's why it baffles me, from a therapist's point of view, why anyone would relinquish their right to be heard--and with no possibility of being rebuffed or discounted. Every vote is equal, Every vote counts.
Even yours.
So, if you are one of the 115 million US residents of voting age who cast their ballot yesterday, congratulations. No matter how you feel about the outcome you came out a winner. If you didn't vote, I humbly invite you back into the national dialogue.
Your voice matters. And if you don't speak up, you can't be heard.
Until next time, thanks for listening.