November 4, 2008

• I got up early just to vote. Okay, that’s a lie. I typically get up early anyhow. But it’s as if the body KNEW I just needed to get up and do it. I woke up before my alarm, threw on my cute boots and a hat as well as my cherished NDSCS sweatshirt and hit the road at 6:50am. Just kiddy-corner from my apartment is my polling place, the Wahpeton Middle School.

  There was a line, pre-7am, which was I was impressed with. Yet, immediately three questions arose: a) how long will this take?, b) why did I wear a hat when I was going to be inside?, and c) how are these people in line going to vote?

  I scanned them, deeply people-watching. Ooooh, she looks like a young mom wearing her high schoolers jeans; she’s probably a Democrat. That old dude with suspenders is probably a huge McCain fan. At one point, I’m fairly certain I heard Obama’s name and then laughter. Not a good sign.

  The ladies behind me talked super small, small talk. “Why such a big line?” one asked. The other answered with, “I suppose it’s all about ‘the change’ or something.” I frowned. We’re not talking about menopause, ladies! Were they truly informed or just playing dumb? I cool dumbness in my classrooms, and then it followed me to the voting line. Great.

  Finally, I get up to the registration table. I get out my I.D. (Fargo address still on it) and some bills that have come to my Wahpeton address, just in case. The woman grabs my I.D. and states, “Oh, our first NDSCS student.” I sigh, “NDSCS professor actually.” No one comments at my fact*. Whatever.

  Later, after finished voting, I bring my ballot to the machine and the lady there says, “Oh, my granddaughter would just love your boots.” I say Thanks and then walk out. Back out in the beautiful November morning (seriously, how nice of a morning to vote!), I smile at getting to vote. *crosses fingers*

  *Perhaps, sometimes, it’s okay to be underestimated in ability.

  • 8:36 am
  • 1 Comment