I can't begin to tell you the frustration and disappointment I too have felt, over the past eight years especially. And frankly, I've lately been embarrassed to be an American because of the crumbling state of affairs and state of mind our country has been demonstrating. I, for one, can attest to what it's like to work in and for things you fervently believe in, only to find out how corrupt and mired down with bureaucratic idiocy those things really are.Don't get me wrong here. I believe in our American way- the processes that set us apart from others since the day the Declaration was born. But I have been severely disillusioned by what has happened here. I long for the days when people wanted to pull together. Yes, because they had to, but also because they were dedicated to a "spirit of service; a willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves." With presidents like Lincoln and FDR and Teddy who didn't just say they thought everyone should get a "square deal", but acted upon it to see that it was so. Men of the caliber that can be judged upon the content of their character, and come out ahead.
My hopes are that Mr. Obama is of the same caliber. And if true, someone like this can make the difference. Someone who cares not about being the most powerful leader in the most powerful country in the world, but who knows that "our power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please" and that "our security emanates from the justness of our cause, the force of our example, the tempering qualities of humility and restraint."
Someone like this inspires us to be the change we want to see in the world. I do believe there are better days ahead- certainly not based solely on this man, but because of his position to facilitate the possibility of and inspiration for us all to take responsibility to make a difference.
I am a patriot. In the tradition of the founding fathers, I too seek revolution and will rebel against injustice and oppression. My commitment to my country is self-evident, having volunteered to serve in its military and in its Justice system. Yet, I am also a minority. One who still is considered "separate and not equal" in some aspects - particularly within the supposed moral arena, rather than the social. But no different than our new president, and every man, woman and child of every culture, religion and nationality, I too have a dream that I will one day live in a nation where I will not be judged based on an inherent difference of orientation, but by the content of my character.
I am revived with new hope and am ready to face the challenge to "reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness." Yes, I am a believer once again...Can I get a witness?
