Like many native Kansans, I have small town roots. My parents were born and raised in Paola, Kansas -- and are both still there today. They were a church-going couple who ran their own business, watched KU basketball and always rooted for the Chiefs -- no matter what. Each voted religiously every four years, but otherwise, did not bother much with politics.

I went to caucus last night not really knowing what to expect. I'm certain there are HUNDREDS of others who feel this same way. For those of you at Robinson Middle School, you know what I mean. The line wound through the hallways of the entire building...and I, along with many others, stood in that line (for a long time) to sign up and have my body count as my vote. I went alone...and that gave me a chance to people watch.  

I'm grateful enough to realize that times have changed dramatically as far as who now comes out to vote. And no where did I see that evidence ring true then standing in line last night. A group of four older men were directly in front of me in line. They rode together to caucus, and were split two and two on what candidate they supported. They talked comfortabley between each other about their beliefs for each candidates success...no bickering, no yelling, just healthy debate. Several people ahead of me was what looked like a family of four. Mom proudly wore an Obama sticker...the man who appeared to be her husband stood beside her. He advertised his support for Hillary in a cotton T-shirt.  

Once I checked in and made it through the crowd to the room of my choice candidate I settled in to wait. Looking around, I wondered how different this process might have been 20 years ago...one of the last times Kansas caucused. Those who could get a signal were furiously typing away on their Blackberries and I-phones...each looking for an update on who was winning states across the nation. Me being the news junkie that I am, I found a man that was able to update me. Can't imagine that would've been the case in 1988.  

Then I wondered what would have concerned voters 20 years ago. Were they worried about health care then? The economy? War? Immigration? That year Kansas Democrats caucused for Michael Dukakis, who would go on to get the nomination. State Republicans supported Bob Dole. But we know that George Bush, Sr. would go on to win the White House...and Kansas voted overwhelmingly for him.  

That was all two decades ago. I was six and whenever anyone said the word caucus I laughed because I thought it sounded like someone was sneezing. Now the word means a lot more. I thought about all the people I saw when I got home. I saw a lot of people who supported both Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton. And each seemed to respect the others decision. And Saturday, there will be hundreds of people out supporting a Republican candidate of their choice. I won't be at the caucus, but I certainly hope those people want the same things from the people I saw last night. Something different. Change. I hope they see someone or hear something that inspires them...no matter their party affiliation.

Thoughts?