The last time I had the opportunity to vote, I dutifully went down to the polling station and stood at the end of the queue. While I waited for my turn, I was still deciding which way to cast my ballot--

Do I toe the line and vote blindly for the same party I have always supported?

Do I take a chance and vote for the new candidate?

Do I even really know the issues? Should I be here, an uneducated voter?

Whether apathy or staunch allegiance, family leanings or a student rally at the university - which will influence my vote here?

I really dislike conversations that dwell on the ocean of sins the government is currently wading through. Personally, I'd rather be proactive and make my voice heard, whether that be through a letter to my member of Congress or Parliament or via the voting system. The bottom line is that every voice counts.

Our Ontario members will have the opportunity to have their votes count in just a few days. A major problem in our system today is the apathetic response to the democratic process, particularly among younger people. Use this widget to find out how many like you plan to vote and what your options are.



As for the rest of us, there are always elections happening in your area. Local governments need the support of your voice as much (and maybe even more) than their federal counterparts. Don't be an armchair pundit; get your butt down to the polling station and exercise one of your most important rights - to vote.


Mamaluv is a ChickAdvisor writer and educated voter. Which means she always knows where the polling station is and where to stand in line... and where to find the nearest Starbucks.

Read Mamaluv's blog