If you were one of those who got inked on May 7, I doff my hat to you.

If you were not, I don’t want to talk to you for at least another two years.
The reason: people paid with their lives in this country to gain the right to vote, and here you are 20 years into democracy squandering yours.

Voting, albeit painful at times, is a right every eligible citizen should exercise.

This should be done regardless of your political affiliation, gender, or whether you feel your party of choice stands a chance of winning the election or not.

It’s not always about winning; it’s about having a say.

Complain about the way the country is run, mobilize people to challenge the status quo or to support it, whatever the case: have a say.

Don’t be a passive observer who is too lazy or one of those people who think their vote means nothing in the bigger scheme of things – because that is not what it is all about.

It is about having a say.

Have a say about how you want your life to change or remain the same, have a say in your children and grandchildren’s futures in this beautiful country.

Just have a say.

I had my say on May 7, and did it feel good.

There are few things as satisfying and powerful as voting, especially in a country such as South Africa with its painful history.

If you did not vote on May 7, consider the reason for that.

Were you overseas, busy, or just too damn lazy to make an effort?

You failed to have a say.

Your next opportunity is in 2016 – don’t squander it. KVDL