If you are a citizen of the United States of America, you have a little time left to...

VOTE.

Me, I mailed in my absentee ballot on October 14—the same day as the Canadian federal election. This time around, I voted with a great deal of hope and enthusiasm, especially compared to the grim determination of four years ago. This time, I think my vote will make a difference: the race is close in the state where my ballot will be counted. This time, I think my candidate has a better chance of winning. (The Comic Strip of Record has already called the election in his favour.) This time, my candidate is actually... inspiring. Barack Obama is not just the better choice; he's a really good choice. He's smart and thoughtful and principled. He both gives and commands respect. He will remind people in the United States that their government works for them, and he will remind people in other countries that the United States can be a good ally. He is part of the fulfillment of the dream of the civil rights movement. I know he won't be perfect, and he'll probably do a few things I won't agree with, but I think he's the best presidential candidate I've ever voted for, and I really hope he wins.