Class Canceled: Schedule Plenty of Time to Vote

You know that feeling you get when you hear the Star Spangled Banner play? I know it's corny. I still get that feeling. The librarian who was supposed to open our precinct over-slept, so there was a long line to vote, but I didn't see anyone head back to their cars. For the first time in a while, I was reminded of the time and comfort everyday Americans are willing to give up to make sure the work of the Republic gets done, and I got that feeling.

I got there at 6:00 AM, thinking few others would be there so early. I was wrong. Already the line wrapped around the Ginter Park Library. Those joining the line knew it would be a long wait. We could see the beginning of the line where the end crossed the beginning. Some had been there since 5:00, standing in a cold, slow rain. The only hubbub I heard was the shout of joy in the doors opened.

Too often, I underestimate Americans. I shouldn't. Each time there's been a crisis, I've seen the nation pull together. Each time I think Americans don't care passionately about liberty and aren't willing to do the work necessary to keep the great experiment going, I have been proven wrong. This morning was an example. As folks would come out, more than one walked the long line telling us it was worth the wait. It was.

To make it easier on you to vote, we won't have class today. Originally, I had planned to hold classes. We need the time to finish the semester's curriculum, and I need to hold a session to help you read for labs.

I didn't count on the rain, and I didn't count on the long lines at the polls. I don't know how representative the lines at my precinct were, but I do know I don't want our class to be the reason you don't vote. It's worth the wait, and one of the main lessons I'm supposed to be teaching you is to value your voice and to know you can make a difference with it. One of the themes of the class is Civic Responsibly. You have more important work today than our class.

I will see you on Thursday.

Steve