Nov 8 - ELECTION DAY

Yesterday, Nov 7, was the long-awaited first, free, democratic presidential election for the country of Guinea.  WOW!  Everything in the entire country was shut down so that people could go and vote.  24 hr curfew for those who were not in the process of voting.  I was not even allowed to go outside the hotel grounds.  I did, however, sneak out briefly just to the gate to get a few pictures of proud voters.  I was so proud of Guinea but I was even more proud to be an American.  I missed voting last week - but I won't miss it again.  It's a privilege that can't be taken for granted.  Maybe if we got our finger stained with ink after we voted, we would have more pride in our opportunity to vote?