This Tuesday, I will be celebrating my 52nd consecutive year of not voting in a political election. For those of you who remain enthralled with this form of entertainment, or who believe that the world will be made better by your placing an “x” beside the name of someone you believe can do a better job than you of managing your own affairs, let me remind you of the words of that noted 20th century political activist, Joseph Stalin: “It is enough that the people know there was an election. The people who cast the votes decide nothing. The people who count the votes decide everything.”

I can think of no better words to sum up the irrational nature of political systems than those of the late Henry Miller. “From childhood you were taught that it is right and just to delegate your powers to someone else. You never questioned it because everything you are taught in school has one purpose: the glorification of your country. Somehow, though it is your country, you seem to have no part in it until the time comes to surrender your life. Your whole life is spent trying to get a hearing. You’re always on the door-step, never inside.” Miller then advises the same thoughts I leave with those who intend to participate in this circus: if a politician has asked you to vote for him or her, follow their advice and do what these candidates will do: vote for yourself.

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