Time to really express yourself - please vote!

As an American company focused on helping women express themselves with silver jewelry that is both beautiful and meaningful, I couldn't pass up an opportunity to make a pitch for the ultimate expression we are blessed to have: our right to vote.

If they say you shouldn't talk politics with your family, then I'm sure they'd say not to talk about it with your customers. I've found breaking that rule worthwhile. While traveling around the country visiting with customers and stores selling our line of sterling silver college jewelry, I got to meet people who come from very different places and perspectives. 

Some of them were not shy about sharing their views, and I'm not, either. We didn't solve the world's problems, but we had some long conversations that opened all of our eyes - something all too rare these days.

I'm not going to use this email to preach my personal politics though I care deeply about them. After all, my biggest value as a designer and businesswoman is to help you express what's in your heart. So, my big ask is not to vote for a particular party or candidate, but please: Do exercise your right to vote for someone!

At a time when lots of people around the world live in fear and have no say in their government, it's shocking that American voting rates are so low. Barely more than 60% of U.S. adult citizens voted in the last election!

Still on the fence? Here's my quick take on three important questions:

1. Does my vote really matter?  YES! Don't forget that the 2000 presidential election turned on just a few hundred votes. The last presidential election turned on just 80,000 votes in three states. Meanwhile, 86 million people didn't bother to show up to vote.

2. I don't like my choices. How can I vote for any of these politicians?  Especially if you don't like your choices, how can you sit this out? I get it. As one wise person said, "Politicians are like diapers. They both need changing regularly and for the same reason." But, sitting on the sidelines actually makes it worse! The politicians only listen to those who participate. How will anything ever change if you're not in the room?

3. OK, I'll be there. So, what's the best jewelry to celebrate our democracy on Election Day? I'd be letting you down if I didn't offer some ideas for how to bring your personal expression to the voting booth. How about honoring your home state with a state outline necklace? Or spread your wings and your freedom by flying high and soaring into the polls like an American eagle with our silver wing necklace!

Democracy only works when we express ourselves. Please do your part! Find your polling place and voting times here at USA.gov.