By Edward M. Bury, APR, MA (aka The PRDude)
First, full disclosure regarding this post on Election Day 2022, a day that assuredly will shape the future of both houses of Congress, result in changes in many gubernatorial mansions, and perhaps even alter democracy as we have known it for more than 200 years. With so much controversy leading up to today, I had intended to draft a fictional humorous “conversation” between myself and a character named Joe Magaman.
(Use your imagination to determine Mr. Magaman’s perspective on the state of the nation and which way he’s leaning politically.)
But after pondering the scenario — meeting Mr. Magaman while at the newly-remodeled Logan Square Starbucks — I opted for another, less caustic and more optimistic focus for today. Besides, it’s pretty challenging to blend politics and humor, at least for me.
The university where I work declared today a holiday, so my agenda was uncharted. Rising in the wee hours of the morning, I ventured to the rear porch and took in the stunning blood moon to the west, the last lunar eclipse until 2025. The sky across our part of Chicago was clear, providing a stunning lunar display and views of stars and planets rarely seen these days in the city.
Later, I did hike the eight blocks along the quiet streets of Avondale and Logan Square to Starbucks with today’s print issue of the Chicago Tribune to enjoy a small Pike Place roast (little cream, little sugar), reading news stories, and the balance of this fall morning in November. Most trees had shed their leaves and there was a cool, fresh scent of fall in the air. Back home, I climbed the extension ladder and removed remaining leaves from the gutters; a final fall home care preparation.
Earlier this week, I voted on campus; but a short time ago, I accompanied Susan while she voted at the Chicago Public Middle School three blocks west. The gymnasium was converted into a polling place for the day, and there was a steady — but not overwhelming — number of voters. Election officials had things well under control, and there were no signs of voter intimidation.
So far, Election Day 2022 in Chicago was for me a very pleasant and relaxing day, one built upon enjoying simple things in life afforded by being an American citizen. Based upon who wins, will these freedoms be taken away tomorrow? I don’t think so.
While I do believe the persistent campaign messaging vitriol, outright fabrication of facts by some, and growing national schism will continue, tomorrow will be another pretty good day; certainly from my perspective, and hopefully for all Americans, regardless if they lean left or right. In fact, the forecast here calls for very mild days ahead before a cold snap this weekend.
As I prepare to publish, there are just under four hours left to vote in Illinois. So, if you are a registered voter and have not cast your ballot, please do so. Voting is simple, voting defines our American democracy.
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