On the Election...

In the past year, I've come to terms with what I am - and that's an independent. My friends tell me that I'm indecisive and can't pick a side. Maybe so, but I think it's because I see only gray. In my world, there is no black and there is no white. It's not that easy. In my opinion, both sides have great ideas and awful ideas.

Now the extremes on either side drive me insane. Those who are touting Obama's victory as the end of the world - saying that we're going to get attacked and simultaneously become a socialist state - are ignorant. Those who are touting Obama as the next coming of the Savior (or first depending on your religion) - as if simply electing him is enough to prove days will be better - well, you're a bit delusional.

Both sentiments remain to be seen, but at the end of the day, Obama is our new president and I think we all need to hope he succeeds (and help him succeed) in keeping us safe and helping us navigate through the economic downturn. I have always felt that anyone sitting in the big chair will feel the pressure to do the right thing, regardless of his or her party affiliation. I also think that a good leader makes sure he has the right people around him. Bush, for the most part, was awful at this. He sought the advice of a few good people, but in most instances, he took advice from the wrong people who helped him tarnish his presidency.

In the end, I hope and pray (and actually believe) that Obama has the foresight to have a well-balanced staff and cabinet - advisers who can explain all sides of the issues and help him come to the right decision - not the party decision.

Regardless, you have to ignore your political stance for just a minute, and realize how amazing it is that an african man and white, american woman gave birth to the next President of the United States. Prejudice is still strong in our country. Plenty of groups still are not afforded all of the rights that we privileged are afforded. But on January 20th, you aren't going to watch another stuffy old white man be inaugurated into the Presidency (that guy will be standing behind him). No, you're going to watch a man with both white and black blood running through his veins be inaugurated into the Presidency.

As Tim Russert (rest in peace) always used to say, "What a country...." It sure is, Tim. It sure is.


(And I voted for Obama, but have more respect for McCain than I have for almost any other politician. His concession speech was eloquent and inspirational.)