A Warm Day in November
I did not wake up early this morning.
The sun was shining through the clouds
As I sat watching the morning news
Swilling coffee to chase away the groggy night.
After my caffeinated breakfast
I put on my jacket and got in the truck.
Driving to the elementary school to vote
I thought about what a fine American I am
Taking the time to help select our new leader.
For the first time ever I had to show picture ID
And fill out an application to vote.
Of course, I filled out the form wrong,
Signing and printing on the wrong lines
So I had to fill out another form.
Then I had to wait in line behind two other voters.
I had waited until after the morning rush,
Until all the people with jobs voted,
So there was almost nobody there.
It took a while, but I got my ballot filled out
And fed it to the optical scanner.
I drove home, laughing at myself
Because I voted for the candidate
Who most reminded me of a cartoon character.
I’m one of those responsible Americans
Who cast their votes based on shallow impressions,
Not some analysis of any contrived issues.
I spent the day reading the Internet,
Then took a drive to the park
And watched the ducks swim and the trees
Shed leaves in the warm wind.
I don’t much care who wins the election,
Because they are only public servants.
Perhaps in the future people won’t feel the need
To follow persons who style themselves leaders.
Perhaps in the future we will not fall victim
To the plans and schemes of politicians.
