Dear Dorothy,
I have become so disillusioned with elections that I no longer see the point of voting. Every election seems to come with promises, excitement and hope, only for many people to end up disappointed. I am tired of feeling that my vote does not really change anything.
I have reached the point where I would rather stay at home than participate in something I no longer believe in. Am I wrong to feel this way?
Regards,
Philomena
Dear Philomena,
No, you are not wrong to feel tired, disappointed or even angry. When people repeatedly place their hopes in a system and feel let down, losing faith is a very human response.
But I would encourage you to separate being disappointed with elections from giving up on your voice.
Voting does not guarantee that the person you support will win, nor does it immediately fix everything that is wrong with a country. However, choosing not to participate also has consequences. Decisions about your community, your economy, your security, your education and your future will still be made, whether you vote or not.
You do not have to be enthusiastic about every candidate. You do not have to pretend that the system is perfect. You are allowed to question the process, demand better leadership and hold elected officials accountable.
Perhaps the question is not, “Do I still believe in elections?” but rather, “What can I do with the little power I still have?”
Your vote is one form of participation, but it is not the only one. Stay informed. Ask questions. Challenge misinformation. Support credible voices. Engage with your community. Demand accountability between elections, not just during them.
Most importantly, do not allow disappointment to convince you that your voice has no value.
Sometimes, change begins with people who are tired but decide to participate anyway.
-With love,
Dorothy