By: Dave B
The incessantly ringing telephone had me in full 'grumpy middle aged guy' mode today. I should be at work but I took a day off to deal with various home repair projects that needed attention. In the middle of unclogging drains and planning outdoor lighting wiring, the doorbell rings.
It's the front door, not the kitchen door that everyone who knows me uses, so I figure it's the cops or some other form of unwelcome news. I take a voyeuristic peek through the peep-hole. Standing there looking mildly uncomfortable is a lady in her late sixties, and she has a clipboard.
I open the door with an attitude like that Grumpy Cat from YouTube and, right away, spot the "Nathan Schlicher" pin on her shirt, followed by the "Derek Kilmer" swag on her clipboard. She's canvassing for Democrats. Derek and Nathan are both good people although Derek is perhaps a bit Blue Doggish.
About the time she starts into her spiel I gather enough wits to say something clever like "Oh, you're here for Nathan?" She kind of smiles and says "Are you a strong Democrat?" I reply "yes" and she asks if I've received my ballots. I hadn't seen them yet and told her "no". She got a puzzled look and mentioned that several of my neighbors had theirs. I promised to check into the matter, thanked her for canvassing, and she went on her way.
Afterward I checked my hopelessly messy desk and found that my wife or daughter had put the ballots in my "in" basket. I'm getting ready to fill out mine now, and am preparing to discuss the candidates with my wife and daughter. As I'm writing this I realize my son just turned 18 a couple days ago and is eligible to vote. I should have had him registered already and better get on it.
So Canvasser Lady, whoever you are, knocking on my door wasn't a waste of your time or mine. You reminded me that in spite of a hectic lifestyle, I have civic obligations that are too easily overlooked. I also have children who still need guidance as they step into the adult world of a democracy. Sometimes we all need a reminder.
Thank you!