I can remember growing up being mezmerized by the political process. In the days of five tv channels, the election returns would always take up at least 3. The school I attended was also the closest polling place, and I remember the excitement and urgency I felt walking into the school's lobby. There were more adults than children on the property and a seriousness about the whole event was pressed upon me. The mandatory silence was almost stiffening and even the grown-ups speaking in hushed tones seemed official. The line of people was so long - out and around the school, all of there waiting patiently to cast their ballot. The whole process of going to the desk, getting the ballot, going into the booth and casting your vote made a very distinct impression on my young mind. I remember sitting at home, listening to the returns. I expressed great disapointment when a local levy didn't pass because my parents were. When I learned that it meant a close friend of mine no longer had a bus to school, the reality of the election reached home. I was only 7 at the time.
I learned everything I could about the political process, and I was more excited about turning 18 so that I could vote more than any other birthday. On the morning of my 18th birthday, I registered to vote. It was one of the proudest days I could think of up to that point. It's importance was completely lost on most of my peers, who were much more enthralled with thoughts of tobacco and porn shops than voting districts.
I've voted in every single election that I was eligible to vote in. That's no accomplishment by any means - it is our civic duty and our right, a right too hardly fought for to be given up so easily. It sickens me when people say "but my vote won't make a difference". Elections are won (by the unworthy) and lost (by the deserving) because of these statements.
Every person, in every state, who is of age and legally able can and SHOULD vote. It's baffling not to!!!

~Chandra