It goes without saying that not everyone gets their way when election time rolls around. There are winners and losers, the satisfied and the disgruntled. As passionately as we may feel about our pet issues of interest, the inevitable day comes when our convictions are put to the test and the results are set in stone, for better or worse, depending on which side you are standing on.

The beauty and genius of our political system is in its very existence. Unfortunately, it is too easy to take it for granted. It is no cliché to say that there are many in this world who are denied the right to shape their homelands’ laws and determine their own destinies. We are truly blessed in having this privilege, and we must always express our appreciation of it by getting out there and voting whenever possible.

So, for those of you who faithfully executed your civic duty, your fellow citizens salute you. Whether or not your candidate prevails, we can all take pride in the fact that our system still works, and the people have their say.

Whether one leans to the left, or right, or gently wavers in the middle, we must all understand that we have much more that binds us together than what tears us apart. The system prevails, and because of that we are all winners.

With options such as early voting and voting by mail, we have more opportunities than ever to make sure our voices are heard, safely and securely.

Let the victorious celebrate, and the defeated regroup, for we shall always return.

To learn more about your early voting options, go to https://www.somervillema.gov/departments/elections.