Open Abstention

Here is a real choice...

Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1) - Cite This Source - Share This

ab·sten·tion /æbˈstɛnʃən/ Pronunciation Key - Show Spelled Pronunciation[ab-sten-shuhn] Pronunciation Key - Show IPA Pronunciation

–noun

1.	an act or instance of abstaining.

2.	withholding of a vote.

I am hearing a frightening undercurrent of opinion expressed about the upcoming Presidential election. From different quarters I am hearing, "I must vote for McCain because he is the lesser of three evils." This is wrong on so many levels...

1. "I must vote..." Since we were small it has been instilled in us that we must cast our vote. It is our right and privilege as members of a free society. It is our patriotic duty. 'If you don't vote you can't complain.' All are compelling reasons why we must vote and if we must vote who wants to vote for the losing side. So we must vote for a winner - not necessarily the best choice.
   
2. "...lesser of three evils." This is the truly frightening undercurrent. I have heard Joe Average whisper, '[I] can't vote for a woman and won't vote for a black so that leaves only that Republican guy. If I got to chose I guess it will be that guy.' Joe Average is stating in no uncertain terms that he is going to throw his vote away by casting it for a candidate that he would not otherwise endorse.

To Joe Average I say, "Do not vote!" Let your abstention eloquently give voice to your personal opinion. Let your abstention speak the truth clearly instead of the lie of voting for the "lesser evil."

Protect your rights and privileges by voting the truth of your heart. If you cannot endorse any of the candidates do not cast a "lying" vote - tell the truth, your truth by abstaining.

Please, do not help to elect the "lesser evil".