Last night was my proudest and most profound moment of being an American. In my lifetime, I was able to see Barack Obama, an African-American man, elevated to the highest position in the free world with the overwhelming support of our great nation (yes, our nation became great again!). There are no recounts, no lawsuits, no hanging chads this time. He is there because nearly 65 million individuals believed in the change he could bring, the "content of his character", his intellect, discipline, focus and leadership.
The night began in Arizona with John McCain's most sincere concession speech - the best of his entire campaign which is bittersweet. Then, I watched Barack Obama in Grant Park come out with his family - so appreciative of the honor, in front of an endless sea of people of all shapes, sizes, and colors, reflective of the America I know. Then, he gave his victory speech which was so incredibly unifying and poignant. It motivated me to take action and want to serve a nation that now believes in itself again. In a time where so much is wrong with our families, our country, the world, listening to his words gave me hope that things will only get better. I think he will mobilize the best and brightest to now want to serve the people vs. serve themselves.
It's hard to put into words a night like last night, much less the journey that brought us to that particular moment in time. Think about this ideal of equality we hold so sacred. Then think about how after over 200 years, we are not there yet. Our story is chapter after chapter of racial and gender oppression and struggle. So words to describe last night? Elation, disbelief, awe, pride.
For me, Barack Obama's journey embodies my dreams of what is possible. And, what is now probable. Our children will live in an America where leadership positions transcend race and gender (and someday sexual orientation - hopefully soon). They will grow up with more doors open, wider, with more opportunities and dreams that are within reach.
So, candidates aside, campaigns aside. Palin, Bill Ayers, POW, "present votes", Rick Davis, aside, aside, aside...history was made and what's great is that no one can take away or undo what has happened. Even some McCain voters have seen passed the campaign divide and to their credit, they have seen much more beyond Barack Obama, the man himself. They see this moment in time and understand its historical significance and impact. To the few that are still angry or confused, healing will come, but I am hopeful that they will also look back and see how a mountain was moved by the collective power of millions of normal people and a dream of one African-American man. This is exactly what our nation needs and what makes our nation so great. As cheesy as it sounds, it is a new dawn.
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