Those of you who regularly read this blog know that I set my books in England, travel there when I can, and often post about topics of interest to other Anglophiles like me. But today, on US election day, let me state for the record: I may have a crush on England, 
but I am in a deeply-committed relationship with America. 🙂 And although I shake my head at and mourn some of the things going on here, I am still grateful to live in the land of the free and the home of the brave. A land where our leaders are still decided by ballots rather than bullets, as I was reminded of in church this past Sunday.
This weekend, my eighteen-year-old-son, who is a freshman at a college out of state, returned to Minnesota for his first visit home. He had applied for an absentee ballot, but since he came 
home spur of the moment, we decided to go to an early voting facility nearby so he could vote in person. It felt important and good to be there as he cast his ballot for the first time, to help him navigate the steps, and share the patriotism and responsibility of this right of passage into adulthood.
I didn’t know about early voting before this. I knew of course there were ways for people serving abroad to vote ahead of time, but not the average Joe, er, Julie. It sure was quick and easy. (Well nothing about this particular election was easy, but you know what I mean.)
Afterward, the four of us celebrated the momentous occasion by going out to lunch together. Our younger son took it all in with quiet interest, which hopefully made an impact on him for the future.
Since today is my day to post, consider this my gentle reminder to American readers to vote if you haven’t already. It also serves as a reminder to myself, to keep praying for our beautiful country, regardless of the outcome of today’s election. In closing, I leave you with this uplifting video from the group Home Free, performing their stirring version of “God Bless the USA.”
Latest posts by Julie Klassen (see all)
- Gifts for Readers…or You! - November 12, 2024
- Research Challenges & A New Release | Guest Post by Erica Vetsch - October 22, 2024
- Book News & Second Chances - October 8, 2024
I am off in about an hour to vote with my two boys, too, Julie! They are 1 and 3! Nothing like teaching them early!
God bless and preserve us. Amen. We’ll go vote in another three and a half hours (waiting just long enough for the initial rush to be on their way to work).
I agree with you Julie God Bless America.I voted early it is much easier.I just finished reading your book the Painter’s Daughter and I just loved it.I could hardly put it down to go to bed.Keep the great faith based stories coming.Diana G.
Thank you,Julie! I voted early and I appreciate your reminder to pray for our country no matter the results of the election! Beautiful video and song by Home Free! God bless the USA!
My daughter will be voting for the first time, too, Julie. We waited until today, so my husband and I will meet up with our daughter at the university after work then go to the polls. I’m excited to share the moment with her.
And I LOVE Home Free, so thank you for sharing that video as well. May we all be in prayer for our country. No matter who ends up in the White House, Christ is on the throne, and I have faith that God is at work in his usual mysterious ways.
Bravo Julie, this made me smile today! I too love England, but I’m in love with America!
I’ll be heading to the poll shortly! I echo what you said so eloquently in your post and Karen’s statement, too: “May we all be in prayer for our country. No matter who ends up in the White House, Christ is on the throne, and I have faith that God is at work in his usual mysterious ways.” Yes!
What a wonderful reminder of how fortunate we are to be able to vote and have a peaceful transfer of government! I can’t help but think of those who died to preserve this right. We voted this morning and took our 8 year old granddaughter with us. The line was steady.
Thanks for sharing this wonderful video. This was a percent post for this day.
Thank you for a great blog! I enjoyed every word and appreciate your stand on America. I especially enjoyed the video! Thank you for sharing it. The song says it all quite well. 🙂