If you don't live in the US, you can disregard this journal entry, however if you live in any other country with democratic elections, then get to voting when the time comes.
It's been a while since I talked about anything political here, cause I do wanna keep that talk away from spaces like these, especially when it isn't relevant. However, with Election Day coming next Tuesday, November 5th, and with so much at stake, I can't not remind anyone following me to take advantage of their civic duty to have a say in this.
After all, many states have tried to restrict your voting rights the past few years in many ways, which they wouldn't do if your vote really didn't matter, and voting is the easiest way to protect LGBTQ+ and women's rights and the freedom of expression we rely on to keep art and porn legal, which we've all taken for granted. For many of you, that may be reason enough to vote, and I won't get into the laundry list of other reasons to do it. Just remember, no matter the outcome of the election, it's worth doing.
So here's your reminder to check your voter registration and take advantage of early voting if your state allows it. (Mine does, and I'm doing it.) If you're gonna vote in person on Election Day, be prepared to wait in line. Go to the bathroom beforehand and bring snacks, drinks, games, whatever you need to ease the wait. Make a plan with your friends and family to get everyone there. Don't ruffle any feathers with anyone over who they may or may not be voting for. Wear some politically neutral clothes so you don't draw unwanted attention to yourself. (That means nothing in support of anything remotely political, like a BLM or trans pride shirt.) Ask for a new ballot if you make a mistake on yours. And above all, DO NOT exit the line before you've voted, even past closing time. As long as you were there before closing, you should be let in.
For more resources, check out vote.org. For info on your candidates, try ballotpedia.org.
Finally, I won't tell you who or what to vote for, but I will tell you to vote for what is important to you and who is most likely to support that.
Keep that in mind, and whatever happens, good gamers can at least say they voted.
Elk out.