I feel good and bad today.

[Dark]

I feel good personally, but I overall feel as though I have lost hope. Today, we had Democracy fest at my university. I had volunteered to man the College Democrat's booth from 12 to 1:30. I entered the University and saw their table. It just had some stickers, registration cards, and some volunteer cards on a clipboard. There were five people sitting behind the booth, doing nothing except reclining. As I approached, one lackadaisically sat up and launched into an almost automated schpleal. I told him my name, and that I was here to volunteer for them. He replied that the CD's head wasn't there yet. I asked who was in charge, so I could report to them and find out what to do. He said that they had all just shown up, and for me to just sit behind the booth and chat with them, possibly giving away a sticker or two. I hesitated for a second, and then said 'Fuck this'.

I grabbed the clipboard, a pen, and took off the 'volunteer' cards, grabbing a handful of voter registration cards before taking off outside. As soon as I exited the doors, I was in the crowded commons. I began shouting "Who wants to register to vote? Anybody want to register to vote?" As I passed small groups of fellow students, I asked them if they were registered. Some said yes apathetically, others ignored me. But soon, someone said yes. Even though I was in my "Kerry/Edwards" hat, she took up the pen and clipboard and filled out the info. She checked the box marked 'republican' (I winced, but let her continue) She handed it back to me, and I said thank you. I began my odysee again, and soon someone said yes. And then someone else. And then someone else. Within one hour, I had registered SIXTEEN PEOPLE to vote (split about down the middle Rep/Dem, with two independents) Unfortunately, I had class, and the Representative who had brought the forms was also leaving (a full half an hour early). My Dem colleagues had already vacated, or rather fled. I was left there wondering. . . what if they had also gone out and acted, instead of sitting there doing nothing?

So, I feel good for myself. I did my duty as a citizen of America, I did it democratically. I let everyone who wanted to register, regardless of their affiliation, do so.

But I feel bad for my colleagues. Do they just not care? Or have they given up hope? I don't know, but think what we could have done if they had all pitched in! We could have registered a hundred people!

Just thought DU would like to know that I am doing my part for America's democracy.

[MuseRider]

1. Good for you.

It was difficult for me when one of my kids friends registered Republican but that does not mean they will vote that way all the time. Next time take a bunch of those draft posters that have been circulating here, that should draw some interest on a college campus (I would hope) or at least get some dialog and interest going.

[UrbScotty]

2. Thank you for doing your part.

To raise their spirits, refer them to this.