I live in Hawaii.
The General Election may be "called" hours before my polling stations close.
However, I plan to vote no matter what.
As a naturalized citizen, it is my right and a privilege - but today I will make sure my voice is heard for another special reason - to honor the memory of Frank Tanabe who lived here in Honolulu.
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| Frank Tanabe & family (Courtesy AP.) |
You can read the full story here.
It all began when a picture of Mr. Tanabe, obviously sick in bed, went viral and his story was told in newspapers around the world.
But he lived only minutes from me.
So I'm going to cast my vote... and once again thank my lucky stars that we have men and women like Mr. Tanabe who sacrifice so much to allow us the freedom to run down to the elementary school in our lunch breaks, or mail in a secret ballot weeks in advance.
No matter what happens, this is going to be a historic election that may change how we, and the world, looks at America.
Frank Tanabe's voice will be heard.
My voice will be heard.
What say you?
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| Courtesy: Irene Tanabe |
11 comments:
We have early voting here and I've already done my duty!
I hadn't heard about Frank's story. Thank you for sharing it.
I absolutely do not think the elections should be called before the final polls close. There is something un-American about naming the winner while people are still lined up to vote.
Like anything else, if you don't exercise your right to vote, it could go away. There are a surprising number of places in this world where the democratic process is not afforded. We owe it to Frank--and all of the numerous veterans who've come before--to embrace our liberties and protect them just as fiercely.
Vote!
That story warmed my heart when I saw it on tv. And he was your neighbor? How lucky are you to know such a great man. God keep him and bless his family and friends.
Mr. Tanabe's story is heartwarming. Thank you so much for sharing it. Earlier this year, my husband and I went to an art exhibit of work done by Japanese-Americans in relocation camps during the war. You might find it interesting to see some of the pics I posted on the two-part story about that time in our history, etc. (You can find them by clicking on the "Gaman" tag on the side of my blog.) And yes sir, I have voted, even though my vote carries next to no weight in my state. The winner here is already a foregone conclusion.
*love*
Amazing, Mark. I love these moments when life can stop, and we can truly think and appreciate... Your post just did that for me. Thanks for this. :)
That was a very touching story. Wish you all the best with voting.
LOVE THIS!
So touching and makes me proud to be an American. Voting is a responsibility that we should be thankful for! :D
Happy Election Day!
Thank you for this. What a great post! :)
Frank's story is definitely an inspiration.
Kudos to anyone who votes!!!
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