Civic Duties

Today I embarked on 2 of my American Civic Duties. I was summonsed to jury duty... ugh. Of course, this had to happen the week I was supposed to start my new job. But, I guess better sooner than later. And, once I was there I really wanted to be put on a jury! It is truly a wonder to know that I would play a part in our judicial system. Even though I believe that so many of my fellow Americans abuse our court system. I wasn't selected today, so here's hoping for tomorrow.

While I was at the court house, I did take advantage of changing my address on my voter registration which meant I HAD to vote today. I'm not sure that I was quite ready to make my decision, but the way things work I didn't want to miss my opportunity later on in November. It was quite a different voting experience here than the last time I voted. Last time it was a computerized system, this time I voted with pen and paper. Yet, like the last time, there were names on the ballot that I had no idea who they were or what they stood for so voting for or against them seemed strange. So, in some cases, I didn't cast a vote for anyone.

Completely separate order of business... did you see Oprah today! Oh my, my, my! I wasn't raised on a farm nor do I know that many farm owners. At least not up close and personal to have a true opinion about the way they run their farming business. Which brings me to Oprah... what in the world?!?

Today she did a look into the farming industry free range vs. not so free range. I'm guessing this follows on the heels of the expose she did on puppy mills. For one, I think we're missing the big picture here... I mean these farm animals ARE headed to slaughter. While I think they should be well maintained, I'm not sold on "giving these animals a life" just to then take it away in mass quantity makes a whole lot of sense. I'm sure Rob will have more insight being that he is more knowledgeable about working farms. But still, these animals are our food... puppies we choose to take as pets. BIG DIFFERENCE!

I guess a way to tie that in to my post is that this discussion was also sparred on by a proposed bill in California to force farms to be free range. Yet again, our justice system at it's finest. But, this is America. A land where the people still have a voice even if it is small. We can make our views and opinions known which in turn means we need to take that responsibility seriously.

Be sure and take advantage of your civic duty, the liberties we are given being American. PLEASE VOTE... YOUR VOICE MUST BE HEARD!