I really don’t like the phrase “shut up”, especially when used negatively toward someone. Sometimes, it seems more crude to me than cussing someone out. But I might have used it this morning on a particular lady who decided to verbally vomit a little in front of my son.

This is the first election, EVER, where Jase and I are actually excited to vote. I think I may have voted one other time in my life and Jase never remembers voting. I also decided to end the genetic affiliation of Republican, so I registered Unaffiliated. I finally realize that an entire group of individualized beliefs on issues are, collectively, neither right nor wrong.

Jase already got a chance to vote early this morning and was still able to make it back in time to bring our son to school and get to work on time. You’re Superman, Jase!

Walking to our son’s class, they had a conversation amongst other parents walking their kids to class. Kai said, “Who do you think Mommy is going to vote for?” and Jase replied, “The same as me”, Kai said, “Do you think she’ll vote for McCain?” to which Jase said, “Oh, no.” About 20 seconds later, a mom, eavesdropping while walking next to them, said, “Did he just say that he hopes she’ll vote for McCain?” Jase said, “No” and (here’s the little bit of verbal vomit) she said, “Oh. That’s too bad.”

Huh?!?

First of all, why is it necessary to speak your contrary opinion when you aren’t even a part of the conversation?

Second, why in the world would you basically tell an eight year old that it’s too bad that their parents didn’t vote another way?

[open letter to this strange woman]

Dear Woman,

Keep your unsolicited advice to yourself. Shut up and vote.

Sincerely,

Mother Bear