With a little over two months until the November election, Chris and I are back to work as campaign volunteers. I write this entry to invite you to join us in this essential part of our lived-out faith.
During the last election runup, we participated in several tasks, including sending postcards, delivering yard signs, phoning voters, marching in parades and canvassing door-to-door. During Get Out the Vote (GOTV) final weekend, we were part of an outpouring of activity that brought hundreds of like-minded volunteers into our congressional district. Our duties shifted several times during those long days, including a short stint as poll-watchers.
As I wrote in several blogs during that time, the volunteering had an almost-sacred cast to it. (See these blogs for examples: https://fullofyears.org/campaigning-with-spirit-wheres-jesus/ or https://fullofyears.org/campaigning-with-spirit-anxiety-begone/ ) We knew we were part of an outpouring of pent-up sentiment about core values and hope. From start to finish, the experience was exhilarating and encouraging.
During this campaign, several of these activities have been curtailed or eliminated. So we’ll probably not be part of large gatherings, or come face-to-face with other volunteers or voters. I’ll continue distributing some unique lapel buttons to like-minded relatives and friends. Later on, we’ll be part of virtual town meetings, write and mail lots of postcards and perhaps make phone calls. Financial contributions will remain part of our overall effort.
This time around—a General Election—a lot more seems to be on the line. Whether it’s the soul of the nation or our country’s actual greatness, what happens on November 3rd—and what occurs between now and then—feels much more critical to the future of our country than mere partisanship. That’s why we’re back to work now, and why we invite you to do the same.
Don’t delay!
EXTRA THOUGHT:
Here’s a bipartisan good deed: Encourage your young friends or relatives to become poll workers—sometimes called “election judges”. Google the name of your state, enter “become a poll worker” and follow the instructions. Time is of the essence—training starts soon!