Election

Barack Obama won. I'm sure everyone knows that by now, but the sound of it, a resonating "President Obama," still makes my heart sing. : ) Throughout my short life, I can recall very few political events, and none like this. In my much younger years, I vaguely recall the Monica Lewinsky Scandal, though I knew nothing about it at the time, and since then few snippets of political happenings. The 2000 elections with the Florida recount crisis, 9/11, the invasion of Iraq, the 2004 elections, and few political speeches in between. At the time, I did not even remotely understand the implications or importance of what was going on, the decisions that were being made. It was simply happening, and something that we tried to talk about in school without much success, or understanding.

But this year, this time, I remember. And I understand. It's phenomenal, the transformation I have seen in myself. I can remember the first time I heard Barack Obama's name, at a book signing in Denver in late 2005. And since then, I have grown from a skeptic to a passionate supporter. Finally, I've begun to think for myself, to realize my own political clout, as well as others. And the importance of the American political process.

The years in which I have grown up have been dismal, as far as political stance and pride go. Travelling, and hearing of others' travels, made me understand that America was hated, looked down upon, worldwide. I felt the need to defy American sterotypes, to bridge my heritage and redeem, by some small action, my corner of the American image.

Although the elections are over (and how delightful they were, on most counts at least) I know this has been incrediby important. I (as a young, liberally leaning woman) have found myself inspired by our President-Elect. His rhetoric, yes, played a significant role. But more than that, the way he speaks of America, of his hertiage, of his pride, has made me the most proud I have ever been. Although my life has been short thus far, and I indeed have not paid that much attention to politics until this election season, I have found myself fascinated with modern politics. Barack Obama has inspired me in a way I didn't know was possible, has brought me hope and pride I have never felt before, and has, for me, awakened my political drive.

Although it was a close race, with valid arguments presented by all, fought hard by both sides, it is over now. Despite the residual tensions, the anger and frustration by all about one issue or another, it is my hope that we can take a lesson from Senator John McCain. His gracious and heartfelt acceptance speech was humbling and refreshing, and it is my hope that we can accept our differences, pick up the pieces of this battle, and move together behind our newly elected president. Because if we don't, that will be more divisive than anything else.