Registering a memory [View all]

[madamesilverspurs]

With all the reminders to check our voter registration, I can't help remembering the times when we went out into the community to register people to vote. Even though I can no longer participate on that level I cherish the memories, one day in 2012 in particular. I shared that experience here at that time:"


We set up our table in the library, just inside the entrance. Voter registration.

As we were beginning to wonder if we'd get any takers, a thirty-something fellow approached the table with his two kids, a boy about 5 and a girl about 3. In broken English this young daddy asked if this is where he can register to vote. He broke out in a brilliant smile when we answered, "Yes".

"I am new," he said, "and I have been so excited to vote!"

While he was filling out the form, his son came and stood by me and pointed to himself. "Ali," he said. "Hello, Ali!" I answered. He laughed and jumped up and down, then pointed at me. "I teached you!" he boasted. "I teached you Arabic!"

"Well you certainly did, Ali!" His smile lit the whole room.

Daddy finished with the paperwork. "I am registered?"

"Yes."

"Thank you! Thank you!" as he and the kids took their books and movies to the check-out desk.

On their way out of the library they passed by our table, and once more Ali pointed and grinned, "I teached you!"


Oh, little Ali, you have no idea. And, yes, you certainly did.

Thank you.