In the semi-chaotic flux of what passes for American politics these days, what does an individual vote really mean? Perhaps more than you have ever thought! A vote is considered by some as an oft-dismissed nuisance, but from my perspective, it is a a sacred privilege, and, specifically, a guide for the use of government force. When you vote, how do you decide among the options? Is it Party affiliation? Religious identification? Or do you have a litmus test of a particular policy position? The American society and government is the classic manifestation of Churchill's dictum that democracy is the worst form of government there is, except for everything else. It often seems that we focus more on that which divides us than on that which unites us. The zealots among us, found on both the far left and far right sides of the political spectrum, attempt to use those culturally divisive concepts for their own purposes. Hear any differing opinions on marriage, abortion, economics, gay rights, or political correctness lately? To preserve and expand the gift of freedom, vote to protect the personal liberty of all Americans, not just those who live their lives within your personal cultural, philosophical, and religious standards.