Why My Vote Matters for My Kids

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As a mother of three, I’ve been doing a lot of soul-searching about this election. Honestly, I’m feeling pretty anxious—not just about what it means for our nation today, but how it will shape the world for my children. We can’t ignore the fact that our votes reflect who we are as individuals just as much as any leader’s character reflects our country.

I strive to be a good role model for my kids. I want them to see me as someone who leads by example, not someone who says, “Do as I say, not as I do.” Yet, this election makes that distinction painfully clear. Here’s what I just can’t accept as a mom:

  • How can I tell my kids not to tease people who are different, to show respect for those with disabilities, or to embrace diversity, and then cast my vote for someone who doesn’t? I can’t.
  • Can I instill the values of compassion and community service while supporting a candidate who seems to lack those very qualities? Nope, not happening.
  • How do I justify teaching my son to respect women when the individual I’m voting for has no problem labeling them in derogatory terms? That’s a tough sell.
  • Can I teach my children to stand against bullying while endorsing a person who embodies that behavior? I can’t.
  • How do I model honesty and integrity if I support someone who brags about cheating others in business? That doesn’t add up.
  • Can I encourage my kids to come to me with solutions rather than just problems while voting for someone who can’t articulate his own ideas? I can’t.

As John Stewart once said, “We want politicians who speak their minds, but let’s be clear: we don’t want them to be complete monsters.” The words we choose matter. Once said, they can’t be taken back. Some people might forgive, but they won’t forget.

I get why some folks are drawn to candidates who present themselves as “different.” They’re tired of the political status quo. However, different doesn’t always mean better. Just ask the guy who thought Watermelon Oreos were a good idea!

Think about it: would you trust a surgeon who has never been to medical school to operate on your child? If that’s a hard pass for you, why roll the dice on the future of our country?

When I consider what this election means for my children, I reflect on the importance of teaching them to face life without fear. The campaign rhetoric seems designed to instill panic, painting a picture of chaos and danger, especially regarding groups like Muslims, whom he wrongly associates with violence.

Did you know the odds of dying from a terrorist attack in the U.S. are about one in 3.6 billion? And let’s remember, not all Muslims are terrorists. The fear-mongering is disturbing. We can’t tell our kids to “be brave” while supporting someone who thrives on creating fear and division.

This isn’t just a political issue; it speaks to our core values as parents. We owe it to our kids to show them a better way.

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Summary

Voting is not just a civic duty; it’s a chance to model values for our children. As parents, we must reflect on how our choices align with the lessons we teach. By considering the characteristics of the candidates, we can guide our kids toward a future built on compassion, integrity, and courage.