I am impressed with the number of dedicated people who have devoted themselves to their respective causes. I don't always agree with their political views, but there are so many hard-working people who have donated their time and energy to campaign for the candidates and causes that are important to them. It is a level of political dedication that I have not yet reached.
I am also quite thankful for the volunteers at the polling stations. We often overlook those who help their fellow citizens fulfill their civic duty. The workers at my polling site were all friendly and in good humor.
I also saw people from various campaigns out tonight picking up their signs that have been at corners and in yards for the past month. Again, that's a great deal of effort to go through that probably goes underappreciated. I imagine that it would be even more difficult for those whose campaign did not go as hoped.
Meanwhile, we have election officials, reporters, and others putting in extra hours into their jobs tonight so that the public can have its curiosity quickly satisfied. Many are giving up time with their families (and with their pillows) in dedication to their jobs. I am sure that they are compensated for their time and effort, but that doesn't make the job any easier or more convenient.
Lastly, my thoughts and prayers often go out to the families of the candidates. Although the candidates have chosen the spotlight, sometimes the scrutiny can be hard on those closest to them. While some might relish such attention, I am certain that some of them feel trapped by the roles they now must play. They, too, are up late tonight, waiting to see how the whims of the public will affect their lives.
I think that it's important to remember the humanity behind the elections.