Obama President

I don't typically delve into politics in this blog.  I watched the rally in Chicago last night with wonder and amazement.  There is not doubt that this was a historic moment that will stand out in the annals of American History.  While I can't recall much about past elections, this is one I am sure I will remember for a long time to come.

I don't ever recall in my lifetime a rally for a president elect like the one witnessed last night.  The crowd was huge.  They were filled with passion and excitement.  

I applaud the crowd that it was well behaved.  It is good to know that even though our elections can be hotly contested, that we still are civilized and tanks are not coming out on the streets.  (On a side note - Chicago took a huge stride towards acquiring the 2016 Olympics).

I have to say that I am a bit sad for Obama.  Not only is it a tremendous responsibility to be the president of the United States, but the expectations that are being put upon this president elect are overwhelming.  I have literally heard people say that Obama is going to pay their mortgage, put food on their table, pay for them to go to college, get them off the streets.

Obama may do some great things, but I don't expect him to live up to the expectations that so many are putting upon him.  He is not the Savior.  He is not going to walk on water.  As much faith that is being put in him, it must be remember he is just a man.  Yes, he has some incredible oratory gifts.  He can whip the crowd into a frenzy.  But he is just a man.

Obama related in his victory speech that we are the United States.  What makes this nation great is that it is not about one man, - "but that though we are many, we are one."  

Finally, I was very impressed by John McCain's concession speech.  It was one of the most graceful and patriotic speeches I have ever heard.  John McCain fought a valiant fight.  He was up against great odds considering the unpopularity of the current president.  He had a lot to overcome, but John McCain has overcome a lot in his life.  No matter what side of the aisle you are on you cannot help but stand up and applaud McCain for his loyalty, his sacrifice, his leadership, and his service of our country.

It is interesting that I went into this election very unimpressed with either candidate.  I consider this election to be about voting the "lesser of two evils."   Most elections are about issues.  And I was not really in line with either candidate on issues.   But what both of these candidates showed, irregardless of the issues, was leadership.  For that I applaud both Obama and McCain.