In the United States, we are fortunate enough to be able to participate in free and fair elections. Regardless, many Americans do not partake in the state and national elections that occur every 2 years. Only about 50 percent of Americans usually feel compelled to go to the voting booth for even a presidential election, though the 2008 presidential election numbers were slightly higher. Sure registering can be a bit of a chore, and yes, you have to head down to a polling station on voting day to pull your lever which takes some time out of your day and may cost you a few bucks in gas, but whether you know it or not these are very small prices to pay for the right to vote. In some countries people are literally dying to be able to cast a ballot and make a difference. Here are a few things to think about before you ignore the next election. Voting is a first step of involvement and interaction with your government, the very same government that is made up of the people, by the people and for the people. It is the simple act of voting that in itself is very important. If nobody voted, your government would not be a democracy; it would take a different form such as a dictatorship, monarchy, etc… The only way democracy works is if most citizens, young and old, are active participants. A government by the people, for the people just can't work without the people. This is a simple fact. Like a car without an engine, or a computer without a hard drive, a democracy without voters is just a shell and has no power. While it is easy to say "one vote doesn't make a difference" the reality is that every vote counts. Also, you have to remember that as an individual your vote may seem to be little more than a whisper but when your vote is combined with the votes of others who share your views it becomes a voice. The more like-voters there are the louder that voice grows. So get