So, as all of you know the presidential primaries are underway. Last week our region had their chance to vote (the Potomac Primaries). Many of you know of my long time interest in all things policy (you've probably been subjected to at least one of my soapbox moments). Having said that, I haven't ever been really enthusiastic about a presidential candidate before, but this time around there's a candidate I've been pretty excited about since first hearing him speak in 2004 (while we sat in a hotel in Frankfurt). That's the first time I remember feeling inspired by a politician to believe in something rather than simply against something or someone. Living here has really made this next election so much more real than before. Traveling to the monuments here and reading the words of former presidents like Lincoln, FDR, and Kennedy, I have been struck by the strength and inspiration of their words. The only time I've been close to feeling that from a politician at any level in my days is from Barrack Obama. Since first hearing him speak, we've read a lot about him, listened to a number of his speeches, and talked to some friends from his Senate district. And I'm still inspired.
What's prompting this post now, is that I attended a rally last week on the University of Maryland campus. It was awesome, despite being in a .5 mile long line for over 40 minutes on what was (until then) our coldest day of the year. Some 15,000 people attended - it was so great to see so many people so excited about playing a role in the political process. But the best part was the positive nature of the message, even though he's in a heated primary and looking toward the national election, his purpose was to articulate his message of hope and a new way of doing politics beyond the old stereotypes and divisiveness.
2 comments:
Eric - We had a chance to see Obama in Bangor on February 9th. It sounds the same situation but with longer lines and a 2 hour wait in the cold. Well worth it though!!! I really believe in the ideas put forth about unity and working together. He said something about "reaching across the aisle and sometimes people surprise you." People surprise me everyday too. And I like the idea of focusing on communities and everyone doing their part to make the U.S. a better place. After attending the rally, I've gone on a bit of American history binge. My new favorite quote is from JFK: "With a good conscience our only sure reward, with history the final judge of our deeds, let us go forth to lead the land we love, asking His blessing and His help, but knowing that here on earth God's work must truly be our own." I agree about not getting into too much politics, so I hope no one is offended by sharing my support either or sharing the JFK quote.
Yes We Can. I like Obama. I like that he talks so much about all of us being a part of the positive change. By the way Eric, I think that Cadie is looking more and more like you!
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