As someone who calls rural America home, I want to take a moment to thank all the urban voters out there. Your dedication to casting a single ballot is inspiring and something I’ve missed in the past — but no more.

I saw you standing in lines that wrapped around buildings, surrounded by strangers, for hours just to make your voice heard. I found myself feeling sorry for you and questioning your motives, but that was wrong.

Your commitment to democracy is admirable. It is just a stark contrast from what many of us in rural communities experience on Election Day.

You see, in my little town, we head to our local country church, a place we’ve gathered for years — not only for Sunday services, but also to cast our vote. For me, it is just a half-mile up the road.

Perhaps I wait in a line, inside a weather-controlled area, for five minutes with two or three people, but they are my neighbors. So, we briefly catch up on harvest and each other’s lives.

My trip to the polling place does not require a sacrifice of time, distance or even human interaction. Voting in rural America is like going to a Sunday fall church festival.

So, while it’s easy to focus on our differences — urban vs. rural, city life vs. country living — I truly believe we have more in common than we might think.

We might not face those epic lines, but the sense of purpose is just as strong. Whether you’re in a bustling city or a quiet country polling place, we’re all wanting the same thing: a better future for our communities.

We all want our families to thrive, our values to be represented and our communities to grow. Each vote counts, and it’s a chance for all of us to shape what comes next.

Once the election dust settles, it’s time for us to roll up our sleeves and get to work. The challenges we face — whether economic, environmental or social — affect us all. Urban and rural voices need to join forces and tackle these issues side by side. By listening to one another and sharing our perspectives, we can find solutions that truly benefit everyone.

So, here’s to you, urban voters. I see your passion and commitment. It is what helps keep our democracy strong. Let’s remember that while we may have our differences, we should strive to build a future that honors both rural and urban voices — together!