We only experience it every four years, but when November rolls around, Pickens County will have a huge choice on their hands.

The 2012 general election is drawing near, which begs the question; How will you decide who will get your vote on that very important day?

It’s an election year, which means it can be hard to clearly understand what is true or false about the candidate you are interested in.

If you’ve watched the news lately, you have probably stumbled across this question: Is your life better now than it was four years ago?

I’m not sure this is the best way to decide who gets your vote simply because a lot can happen in four years. I think it’s important to break this question down into smaller pieces.

The biggest issue today is the economy. Are we creating more jobs? What about the deficit?

What about safety? Is this a world I would want to raise children in, or could we use a change?

Does the current administration agree with your stances on social issues?

This column was not meant to provide you with answers, but to simply encourage you to do some research.

We have some very important races in this election that need an educated vote.

Obviously, the race for the Presidency between Barack Obama and Mitt Romney is an important one, but think about Pickens County as well.

We have three candidates (Rick Clark, Tim Morgan, Stan Whitten) that are vying for the Sheriff’s seat in November, all of which have made a strong case for their election. This race is even more important, because it does not include the man (David Stone) who has occupied the seat for over 40 years. Changes are coming to the Pickens County Sheriff’s office, and those changes are up to you.

Another important race to pay attention to is the one involving education. Incumbent Judy Edwards will take on Dr. Valerie Ramsey and David Whittemore for the open spot on the Pickens County School Board of Trustees representing Easley. For Easley folks, it will be important to get the right voice on the board so that the community can be represented in all decisions.

These are just a couple of reason why you need to get out and get informed.

It is important to vote, but it is even more important to know why you are voting that way. If you are simply voting for someone because they are a recognizable name, or because everyone else is doing it, I would encourage you to rethink your decision.

Instead of asking yourself if you are better off now than you were four years ago, ask yourself what you can do to make sure the next four years will be better.