Respect

 The election approaches. I voted by mail a while back. I have almost always voted whenever I could. I remember that my first presidential election I voted by mail because I was in college. I have had friends over the years who I disagreed with politically.  It never affected my opinion of them. I tend to be an independent and have voted for both parties. I have respect for the system.

But, this year is different for me. I really care who wins, who loses. I can't really discuss politics with anyone. I have a sibling who has a different opinion who ridiculed and made fun of me when I said I supported a different candidate. It has lowered my opinion of him a great deal. I have decided that I don't want to go through that with others. I don't want to know who you voted for and I don't want to tell you who I voted for.  Let's keep it private.

Respect the system.  Try to respect the system.  Let the loser walk away and not claim cheating. We are a democracy with a peaceful transfer of power. Respect each other.  Don't hate. Don't try to strengthen your argument by ridiculing those with a different opinion. I pray for a safe and fair election with a clear winner.  I pray especially for peace.