Today is one of the most important occasions in the United States–more important, in my opinion, than any holiday. It is a nationwide, presidential election day, though I take all elections seriously, whether they be national, state or local.

It is on very rare occasion I use the word “un-American”, but I will when talking about eligible voters who do not perform their civic duty. Voting is the only activity I can think of which is not just a right, but which should be mandatory.

While a large, vocal contingent has expressed increasing dismay as to whether their vote counts, the important thing for me is that every one of us who meets the criteria to cast a ballot does so.

After submitting my ballot, the rest of the process is beyond my control. Anything less than complete faith my vote will be tallied appropriately means the American system has failed completely. I feel it is similar to how our financial system exists because we all agree a dollar is worth a dollar. In that regard, it isn’t overly surprising to me how it appears a great many of those who are most vocal about their vote being discarded are also into alternative currencies.

The right for us to cast that vote did not come easily. Just briefly consider the war and hardships that led to the formation of this country, and the threats it has faced since then. Then there are the huge struggles that led to the right for women and minorities to go to the polls.

You owe a debt to those who fought for the right for us to vote today. We also owe it to each other to do this simple act today which says you have faith in your country, and that a vote still has the same value it always has.

With that, get a move on and vote, if you haven’t already. If you’re not registered, then do it now, so you’ll be ready for the next occasion, because to not do so is an insult to the heroes of the past and to each other today.