Jeff’s Journal
By Jeff Whitaker
I heard someone joke recently about election day. They said that they always hear people cop out from voting by claiming they are only one vote and that one vote just can’t make a difference. Their friend replied that if everyone assumed that their one vote didn’t matter and stayed home then the one vote their friend claimed didn’t matter would now matter since everyone else was staying home. You might have to read that twice. But the point is each of our votes do matter. I’ve used my voice in this column in the past to extol the importance of voting. But it doesn’t hurt to be reminded.
YOU HAVE A VOICE
It is important for you and me to vote whenever we have the chance to influence our community or state or nation. Men and women have literally given their lives so that you and I can exercise that privilege. And here’s something else to consider. If people have given their lives for that right, the least we can do is take a few minutes to study up on the issues that impact us and make an informed decision when we head to the polls. Don’t complain about the state of “our community, or state or nation” if you aren’t willing to share your feelings at the ballot box. You’re one vote, combined with mine, our family, friends and neighbors vote all add up. Don’t say, “I’m only one person.”
BECOME PROACTIVE
A lot of times I think we don’t get involved or throw up our arms in disgust without realizing the power we all have to make a difference. So whether you’re encouraged or discouraged after the election, I want to offer three things you can do personally to make your voice heard and affect change.
1. Volunteer – It could be in a civic or charitable organization; your church or religious organization. Offer to help and get involved. When attention is taken off of ourselves and onto something, some cause or someone bigger than you, it will give you a sense of accomplishment and a feeling of real purpose.
2. Run for Office – Of course you’re not going to run for President of The United States. But you could run for a position on your condo association or community governing board or a charitable board of directors or committee. If you want to see change in your community, step up and become one of the change agents.
3. Speak Up – I hear all the time, “I wish ‘they would’ or ‘how come ‘they don’t’”. Let your voice be heard. Attend a School Board meeting and speak up. Join a parents association and offer your input.
There are a lot of ways to make a difference right where we live, work and play. But unless we step up, we’ll never affect change. Sure, decisions are going to be made on a much larger level; decisions that we agree or disagree with, but our ability to make an impact starts small and local.
Mahatma Gandi said, “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” Some practical thoughts to remember as November 8th approaches. So, let’s go out and make a difference in the world that we live in, with the influence we have and the impact we can make.
Jeff Whitaker is a veteran broadcaster here in South Jersey. He now draws on his experience and training to work with companies and individuals to develop effective storytelling, communications and leadership skills. Find free resources and ways Jeff can work with you at jeffwhitaker.com
