I spent most of the day yesterday going door to door in my town. It was the first time I've ever done canvassing, and I was nervous and uncertain. I never imagined I'd be one of those people who interrupts neighbors going about their daily lives to say, "Please vote for this guy!" I've been on the receiving end of political preaching before, and I've never liked it.
So, I have some sympathy for all those people who are tempted to say "Go away!" "I'm not interested!" "Leave me alone!"
A funny thing happened though as I knocked on door after door. I realized the commitment and passion it takes to keep going when you know you won't be received warmly by every house you visit. If I didn't believe Barack Obama was the very best candidate for President of the United States, I wouldn't be willing to do this. If I wasn't convinced he has what it takes to lead our country in a new direction and restore our sense of common purpose domestically and abroad, I'd be tempted to give up after the first rude response I received.
I'm taking the time and going to the trouble to canvass because this isn't an ordinary election. This is a pivotal moment in history when we have an opportunity to get involved and make a difference. If we don't want to continue along the same path our country has been on for the past decade or more, I firmly believe we need to elect Barack Obama as our next President.
One other thing I've learned - it doesn't take alot of effort to be kind to canvassers. "No, thank you," is so much nicer to hear than a harsh "Not interested" or worse. The people who are coming to our doors are actively engaged in the political process - which I think we'd all agree is a good thing - and all they're asking for is a few seconds of our time. Yes, it's terribly annoying and frustrating to hear the doorbell ring if you're sick and trying to rest or if you've just put your baby down for a nap, but it's worth remembering why you're being visited.
Everyone's vote matters. We are all being asked to consider a decision that could have a big impact on our individual futures and the future of our country as a whole. Isn't it worth taking a few moments to find out why your neighbors, like me, are tromping through miles of ice and snow to support Barack Obama?
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