Wow...

I have chosen to not speak politically on this blog for a reason. It isn't because I don't have political beliefs. I suppose it is the opposite. My political beliefs are so important to me and so close to my values and world view, that I hold them tightly. I have strong beliefs. So I acknowledge that most of the people that happen upon this blog do too. And that is the reason I'm careful with what I say. I've never been someone to debate or try to change another's view. I'm happy to share my heart when I feel like it is safe, but it is for the purpose of allowing someone into my world, not to alter theirs toward my thinking.

All that said, I want so badly to post on the end of this presidential election.

I want to say that I have never had more respect for John McCain than while listening to his speech last night. It was possibly the most gracious political speech I've ever heard. As I wiped the tears away, and we all acknowledged how hard his campaign worked, I realized without a doubt that at any other time in history, Senator John McCain would have won a presidential election with no problem. I hope there is room for him in the new administration, and I hope for some rest for him and his family.

And I am still speechless over the shift in our country last night. Between Barack Obama's humble start (so much like most of ours), his racial background, his international ties, and his heart, my heart swelled with pride over my country. Not so much for him, although it is a monumentous win on so many levels, but for what it means that this country now values. I have some hope after too many years.

As I watched Barack and Michelle and the kids walk out on stage last night, I had an overwhelming urge to pray hard. That God would protect this new president and his beautiful family. From all the threats that come at a presidential family. But also especially against the thread of hate that still weaves its evil through some of this country. Please protect them...

And I wanted to share a poem that was on NPR sometime last week, that kind of sums things up for me in a way. If anyone knows who wrote it, please post, because I'd like to add that of course, since I don't know.

Rosa sat so Martin could walk.
Martin walked so Barack could run.
Barack ran so our children could fly.

I am excited to see the new shift in this nation. As African-American children look at politics with shiny new eyes, as the children of immigrants feel they now have a voice, as anyone who acknowledges the weaknesses in this country, yet dares to hope and dream for something better, we can all join the hard work ahead of us. We take hold of a neighbor's hand of a different color, and we now march together toward a new future of dialogue and respect, growth, and hopefully peace. I am proud that there is room for all of us.