You can always tell the dreamers. They will be the one with books in their hand. While standing in line waiting to vote, they will transport themselves to another place, another time. They become voyeurs of non-existant lives, or guru's of self help. They learn String Theory, or Algebra, or Great Poetry. They are friendly, and communicative. They will nod and smile and say, "Ah, I see you too came prepared to wait." Then they will hold up their book for your approval. Next, lower their heads and become instantly drawn back to Knights and Dragons..or drawn ahead to Space Ships and Alien Wars. They won't complain about the time. None of them wore watches, including myself. Almost as if we were members in some silent club, we'd read a bit, and look about. On one wall was a replica of the Texas Flag. The lone star surrounded by blue handprints, signed by their owner. The red portion, the same. Why Angelina Joli even dipped her hand in red paint..printing her name carefully for the world to read. A balloon, the same shade as a dark concord grape floated through the line, it's long yellow ribbon trailing behind. It stopped perfectly in front of a little girl waiting as if to say.."Now, you are mine." Her mother reached out, took the string, handed it to her daughter, who smiled as she grasped the ribbon. (Who says there is no such thing as magic?) Through the door, into the ante room, we watched basketball through the windows. Listened to the speaking of tennis shoes as the rubber met the road. Heard cheers, heard whistles, heard the"awwwwwww" of the crowds when shots were missed. I follow the red line, hand over my card, sign my name. I cast my vote, confident I did my homework. Knowledgable in the issues and where the candidates stand. I review the last page. Press "Cast Your Vote." Watch the flag wave in confirmation. I stand there a moment in silent reverance and gratitude to those in uniform who preserve and protect my right to do this.1
Author notes
Still a work in progress.
Ok..this had paragraphs when I first wrote it...I have no clue where they went.hmmmmmmmmmmm.
What did you think? Please comment!
Comments
1 - 8 of 8
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The detail in your write is remarkable. Thank you for such a heart-felt ending. I, too, am thankful for those who keep our country free so that we can choose. Patricia
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Oh, and "String Theory" someone here at AP introduced me to it. I found it interesting and I investigated, reading and re-reading. My friendship with him really broadened my horizons. He was very open minded and he left me in the dust when it came to IQ... He's rarely here anymore..though every once in a while I hear from him.
I included it in this poem, because at the time I was investigating it, I took that book everywhere. So, it just seemed appropriate.
Edited on Oct 30, 12:53 because ''. -
Hi Amicus,
Unfortunately, you did not get to read the edited, unjumbled version. I have no idea what happened to the paragraphs..nor to the edits I made a few days back. I had changed it a bit, deciding on "listening to the chirp of tennis shoes on hardwood floor" and leaving out the cliche of (rubber meeting road.)..there were other changes, all for the better, but somehow, AP didn't hold my changes. So perhaps, I'll try it again. I enjoyed voting. Have only missed one election since I turned 18 ( long time back..LOL)..a local one that I just forgot about. But, I see no reason to force my opinion..I only hope every one that can vote...does.
Thank you for reading, and for your warm comments.
Edited on Oct 30, 12:22 because ''. -
Molly'sWall, thank you so much for reading.
The balloon, was almost like something in a movie. I had never seen anything happen quite like that before. It was quite a heartwarming experience.
Maddie -
Thank you, Leo, for reading and for sharing your heart. We too often take it for granted, the cost of being free. Thank you for reading..
Maddie -
Well...the "String Theory" got me...of course you know not one in a hundred thousand have a clue...smiles... there is not just a mind behind your writes...but a soul...and a heart and I sense it in each thing of yours I read...you have a wondeful feel for life...and the voting...smiles...thanks for hiding your preference...if you have one....and I am sure you do...warm regards...amicus....
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I was thinking about how there were no paragraphs when I was reading haha funny that you have mentioned in your notes. Ok, the scene is set up with awesome description, giving a great feel for everything going on in that room. I could almost feel a soft breeze blowing the string on the balloon toward the child. And I could really relate, because I would be the one standing in line at the school gym, waiting for my turn to vote with some book in my hand. The ending is incredibly powerful. Very well said. You say it is still a work in progress, I would love to see what you do with it, I will keep a mental note to stop back again...
~M~ -
I agree with you. Our precious right to vote must be protected at all costs. We are endebted to the service men and women that gave their all in order to insure it.
Sincerely,
Leo Long
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