Here we are, kiddos, arguably the most significant day in the history of American politics. Sometime between now and 12:00 EST, Barack Obama will be sworn in as the 44th President of the United States.
There's been much discussion over the past few weeks about the shift that Obama represents in the American paradigm. I haven't really weighed in on this up until now, and I think today would be a fitting time to do so. While the issue of race has been a hot topic, I don't believe that it should factor in such a prominent role in what is really going on here. The fact is that the American people have rejected entirely the policies and doctrine of the Bush Administration, and are standing today united in the belief that they are better than what they've been for the past 8 years. That thought alone moves me almost to tears. Don't get me wrong, I'm not taking away from what's been accomplished here in the arena of race relations - I mean, to go from segregation to an African-American in the White House in just three generations is absolutely astonishing - it restores my faith in us as a people, and warms my heart in ways that I have no words to explain. It makes me proud to be alive in a time when simply being alive is frightful.
What gets me though, is how throughout the campaign, race was not an issue, and was seldom brought up by the punditry. That in and of itself is evidence enough that the American people were searching for someone to lead them back to where they belong. Based on that belief, what they've done is elect a leader who is honest and trustworthy. From the outset of his campaign he's been up front on issues, and spoken the truth even when what he was saying was not popular. He's a man of conviction, but who is not above asking for help when it's needed. He listens to dissenting voices; encourages open discussion on issues that are important; engages the electorate through open and easy access; is understanding in an age of intolerance; and the list goes on. They've elected a man who, in my estimation, is the embodiment of everything that they hope to be as a people, and I don't think they could have made a finer choice. To that end, his race or creed is of little import - he is simply a good man. To be constantly cast as a 'good black man', I think, does him, and indeed us all, quite a disservice.
And so on this historic day, let us all stop for a moment and consider how far we've come together. And while the implications here are not nearly what they will be in the United States, I am proud of our American neighbours again, and I wish them all the best. It's been awhile since I've been able to say that.
To Mr. Obama - I know it means little coming from just me, but good luck, sir, we need you now.. all of us.
Cheers.
EDIT - Stuck at work, so I didn't get to see the inauguration, but I just read the text of it and wept like a small girl. Excerpt:
'As we consider the road that unfolds before us, we remember with humble gratitude those brave Americans who, at this very hour, patrol far-off deserts and distant mountains. They have something to tell us today, just as the fallen heroes who lie in Arlington whisper through the ages. We honor them not only because they are guardians of our liberty, but because they embody the spirit of service; a willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves. And yet, at this moment — a moment that will define a generation — it is precisely this spirit that must inhabit us all.'
Full Text Here
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