Many of us are probably tired of all the political ads on our TVs, signs littering the roadways, debates causing us to miss our favorite shows. Take heart, America: It’s almost over.

As unpleasant as the political process can be — especially when there’s a hotly contested presidential race — we all should remember that it’s not only every American adult’s right to vote, it is a privilege.

Dating back to the birth of this country, people died for the right to have a say in their nation’s government. African-Americans fought and suffered for the right to vote. Women, too, suffered through hunger strikes and torture to earn their right to vote. Do not make their suffering in vain because you don’t think your voice matters.

Consider this. The 2004 presidential election was won by George W. Bush with 50.7 percent to John Kerry’s 48.3 percent. That’s a close margin. With current polls showing President Barack Obama and challenger Mitt Romney in a virtual tie, voting to make your voice heard is more important than ever. One vote really can make a difference.

If the presidential race statistics aren’t enough to inspire your participation, locally, in 2009, the mayoral race in Polkton came down to one vote. A hand count of the ballots led to a tie between Henry Furr and Minnie Staton. Because of the tie, a name was drawn out of a hat to decide the race, and Furr was named mayor. If just one more person in Polkton had voted, there would not have been a tie.

Your voice does matter, even if it may seem like it doesn’t. So this Election Day, if you haven’t already, vote.