On Tuesday, I had my first opportunity to work the polls during an election. It was a real educational experience. I live in Warsaw, but was asked to be one of the inspectors in Silver Lake. It was a long day, starting with the alarm at 4:45 a.m. and ending at 7:30 that evening.
What I was most impressed with were the people who worked with me and many of those who came in to vote. Silver Lake is a tight community where everyone seems to know everyone else. They grew up together, and generation after generation stay there. I found a real sense of community and support and a sense of inclusion. They welcomed me and made me feel at home.
I learned another lesson in Silver Lake on Tuesday. I found people there who take their responsibilities as voters seriously. In the past I have viewed voting and elections with a skeptic's eye, something I take for granted. The citizens of Silver Lake take this privilege seriously. Workers encouraged young people, walking them through their first experience and helping elderly and handicapped with care and good humor. Their example was encouraging and educational to me. I learned a lesson on Tuesday and wish the politicians we elect to do our business took their responsibilities as seriously.
