List #141: Democrat in My Heart

I think I've been crushing on Democratic men since I was very little girl.

I remember being oh, about 11, and wanting to write Bill Clinton a letter to let him know how much I wanted him to be our President. I don't think I ever did though.

And I remember peeking out from a mock election in my first grade classroom and seeing that my hand was the only one raised for Michael Dukakis. It was Dukakis and I was a Catholic School student, after all.

I was kind of a liberal dork even when I was little, apparently.

My biggest Democratic crushes come straight out of the West Wing. The fictional television show, of course. Because hello, what liberal, loving woman who just wants affordable education and healthcare for all can resist men like this:

This year, I haven't been as vocal about my politics in years past. Part of this is because I've gotten really good at being the impartial librarian that it feels almost strange to step into a passionate, and opinionated voice. Part of this is because I've reached the age that I no longer think that one politician can change the world. They can help, certainly. But all sides of the argument must find common ground, and that's something continues to be a struggle for this country. Part of it is because I don't have the time I once did to volunteer my hours. They are excuses, to be sure.

But after watching the Democratic National Convention this week, I feel a little more energized than I did before. I can't stump for the Democrats at work. And I won't be posting a whole of things to Facebook. But I'll give, I'll cast my vote, I'll engage in thoughtful and educated discussion.

And I'll get giddy and excited when smart men and women keep talking about what is important in this country. I'll get all swoony when I read newspaper articles of political men and women trying to use their power to make a difference.

I just don't want to live in a world where men try to tell me what I can and can't do with my body. I don't want to live in a world where our leaders consider corporations people. I don't want to live in a world where we look out for ourselves above looking out for each other.

So dear readers, if you're not registered, regardless of your party or views or hatred of politics, please go register. You can't make a difference if you don't voice your opinions.