Big decisions require knowledge and perspective of the past, present, and future.  As each of us gets ready to vote we must think both short term, and long term.  Collect data or inform yourself on what is going on right now; and what are the trends that will impact our futures.  Trends require us to forecast the future based on the past and present trajectory of  events in various categories.  All of us need to consider the following trends: our impact on the climate of our planet, civility in our society, and our rights as citizens of this great country.