Judgment day

The most awaited day of our lives will arrive in only three days; the day we exercise our right to vote. We shall be the most powerful humans because our votes will elect the leaders of our beloved country. The day symbolizes the end of months of bickering among political party supporters. The day when we will hopefully be able to say goodbye to so many sorrows and sufferings brought on by broken relationships. However, this situation will never arise because some will be unable to accept the results. It would probably take some time for us to figure out whether we had won or lost.

As we have experienced or are currently suffering the pandemic, this year's election is unprecedented. It would have an impact on how the voting procedure is conducted in accordance with health and safety protocols. Only a limited number of voters are strictly permitted to enter the voting area in order to maintain physical distancing. This year's election is also a test of the influence of social media, which is where the majority of us get our information. It is really a battle over what we believe in, whether we choose the truth or continue to believe lies while knowing the reality.

Let me provide a few last-minute pointers to consider in the days leading up to the election. First and foremost, we should not choose candidates solely on their popularity. Although election is a pretty big deal, popularity does not imply having a superior government program or mechanism to move our country to greatness. Popularity is in vain if it does not deliver the promised development.

The second pointer relates to the candidate's track record. All of the candidates, particularly our presidential contenders, have a long list of achievements. However, it is the extent of impact that these programs have had on our underprivileged and marginalized communities.

Serving as a leader while being overly concerned with approval ratings is akin to being president on a roller-coaster. We want a leader who will go to the ground level to see if development has reached the people. And, because we have access to trustworthy information, we already know who has done this in the past. It's just a matter of figuring out which one is legitimate.

The candidate's integrity is the third pointer. Although difficult to quantify and determine, it brings us back to earlier years in terms of one's execution of duties. Candidates with integrity follow through on their promises. Others have excuses. Let us not forget that these candidates have previously held positions of authority, and how they used that power is a true test of character. It is extremely beneficial in the hands of a person of integrity, but it is extremely destructive in the hands of a tyrant. Being honest and consistent in providing genuine services to the public makes all the difference.

Finally, a candidate's moral authority comes from adopting universal and timeless norms such as honesty, integrity, and treating people with respect. Supporting the truth, especially when it is controversial, demonstrates integrity and honesty. For the last time, even if we have already decided, let us take the time to consider who among these candidates best symbolizes moral turpitude for the sake of our loved ones.

In the end, democracy cannot succeed unless those of us who express our choices are prepared to make wise decisions. Let us vote for principle, according to our conscience even if we must vote alone, and let us delight in the realization that our vote is never lost.