This post was written by Senior Editor Jake Whitfield.

Today is Election Day. It’s an extremely unique day in the human experience. Voting is a practice of self governance; individuals are given the opportunity to determine how they wish to be ruled. Of all the regimes that have existed in the world, few have permitted citizens to participate. Historically, this concept is still new. Presently, free and fair elections are rare. Whether you vote, or not, be thankful that the opportunity exists in the United States. Don’t just vote for you, vote for our predecessors that have made this unique privilege possible.

While voting is an individual right and privilege, it is also a civic duty. The voter should be voting for the good of society, not just themself. The ideal voter is motivated not only by the love of themself, and the desire for their individual well-being, but a love of their country and of their fellow citizens, and a desire for the collective well-being. Don’t just vote for you, vote for all of your fellow citizens.

Finally, and most importantly, it is vital to remember that good and thoughtful people can vote for different candidates. Also, each election is not the most consequential in history. Dystopian rhetoric preceding elections is much too common. The United States’ existence is not dependent on election outcomes because the United States is more than its political system. That’s why just voting isn’t enough for good citizens. Good citizens work towards a better country on Election Day, but every other day too. Their mission isn’t political victories but a better society. So, if you can, vote today. And whether or not you vote today, strive everyday to be a better citizen by making everyday a day to improve society.