Last week was a very big week; I have not written anything because it is difficult to get my mind back on topic - but perhaps our historic election is part of the topic, is relevant, and we should be thinking systemically in all areas. Everything is connected, now more than ever. I went to my local polling place to vote, as usual, not realizing that it was the last opportunity I would have to do so in my city of Seattle. King County, in which Seattle is located, will only be taking mail-in ballots from now on. I was very, very disappointed to hear that, and felt a sort of bitter poignancy in wearing the sticker handed out at the voting place, which usually just states "I Voted", but which this time also read, "farewell to polls".
Voting in person, with your fellow citizens, seems such an essential, civil act of citizenship. It's good to see your neighbors at the polls, see all the different people you might not see under daily circumstances, and receive that little sticker as a verification of civic participation. I will definitely miss it, and am keeping a hope that we will still be allowed the option.
Our streets were put to good use last Tuesday night, with throngs coming out to celebrate in mass, in person. The police were cooperative, closing streets to traffic and letting the happy celebrations go on, unimpeded. There were also planned post-election parties, of course. The euphoria was palpable.
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