One week from today, we will know who will be the next president of the United States. We’ll also know about the fate of two proposed amendments to the Constitution of Virginia. There are a few state offices and local seats right here in Charlotte County up for grabs, too.

One week from today, you will know if you’re happy with the outcomes of any of these races. If you’re not the question we would ask is, “Did you vote?”

Hopefully, most if not all of you would say, “Why, yes I did.” But, if your answer is a sheepish, “Well… no, I didn’t,” then you have no right to complain or celebrate.

Yes, we know the presidential election has been rancorous, to put it mildly. That’s no excuse, in our opinion, for not going to the polls and casting a vote for the person you think will do the best job — even if they’re the “lesser of two evils.” More important, perhaps, are those other items on the ballot.

Don’t stay home because of the presidential candidates. Want to see change in Congress? Cast a vote in the Fifth District election. Think the Constitution needs updating? Mark your ballot. Like your current mayor and council members? Re-elect them.

Voting is our most important right and our highest responsibility all rolled into one. Yes, you also have the right not to vote. But, if you don’t, then you should exercise your responsibility to keep quiet about the outcome.