Thoughts on Last Night

Wow. I can't believe it. I still can't believe it. I was glued to the TV all night and all morning. I really need sleep. Even as an independent, I have to say watching Obama's speech was one of the great moments of my life. He is incredibly inspiring. What is his secret? I think part of it, for me, is his contrast to GWB. GWB's own biographers admit that he is not a self-examining, listening type, which happen to be Obama's strengths. People are talking about him like he's Jesus, and obviously they will be disappointed. But for those who are old enough (only 30!) to remember presidents (Republicans and Democrats) who were deliberative, thoughtful, and intelligent, and who sought the opinion of experts regardless of party, this will be a welcome reintroduction of those qualities. I keep forgetting there are many young people who think an administration of extreme secrecy who serves only its own party is the norm. And I truly don't mean that in a Republican-bashing way. I'm criticizing the Bush administration, not the Republican party as a whole, even though they share the responsibility of electing him a second time. (Although Kerry was not very awe-inspiring, it's true)

Of course this is the honeymoon period and there will be a reality check soon, especially with the mess he's inheriting. But early reports are encouraging: one of his top priorities in picking a cabinet is bipartisanship. To not surround himself with yes men. Music to my ears.

I remember in 2004 getting emails either implying or downright stating that this was the most important election ever and that God wanted George W. Bush to be president. Now I'm thinking that might have been true because had Kerry won in 2004, Obama would not have won in 2008. The Lord works in mysterious ways.

(For any of you who won't get the last part, I'm JOKING. I do NOT think God endorses political candidates or parties. It's just fun to tease people who think that.)