Follow Your Yellow Brick Road

Imagine, if you will, that our beloved Dorothy and her traveling companions - the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Lion - were heading to Oz not to meet the Wizard but to vote for who should be the grand Wizard.

Each, of course, enters their private ballot space with a unique perspective on what they are seeking in a Wizard. The Scarecrow might be looking for someone strong on education who could advance knowledge for everyone in Oz. The Tin Man might be on the lookout for a leader who serves with compassion and respect across the diverse Oz community. The Lion may be focused on someone who has the natural courage to stand up and face those—both inside and outside the kingdom—who seek to create walls and divisions.

But what would our Dorothy seek? Having journeyed with her friends for such a long time to reach Oz, she has gained a deep appreciation for their desires. Dorothy might think, "Why can’t we have a Wizard who leads with not only brains but also heart and courage?"

Similar to Dorothy and her friends, every American follows their own yellow brick road to the polls, not just this fall but every year. 

As we prepare for the upcoming national election, we must all weigh the traits that we find most crucial in our future leaders. Who are your traveling companions? Family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, the global community – they all 'walk' with us, and their respective roads are determined by the decisions we make.

So, before you mail in that ballot or ease on down the road to your polling place, ask yourself: ‘What does our “Wizard” need to embody?’ Take time to learn about the candidates—explore their platforms, listen to their debates, and consider their track records. Engage in community discussions to hear differing perspectives which can enrich your understanding and clarify your priorities. You have the privilege to have voice in shaping the road ahead, ensuring it’s paved with the values and leadership you believe in. 

So, lace up those ‘ruby red Converse’ and set out on your own yellow brick road to the polls. It’s our collective journeys that makes the democratic process magical. 

DOROTHY CASTS HER VOTE KNIT