I’ve been glued to the news for weeks watching this delicious election coverage. I’ve done my part in this election. I convinced people to register to vote. I’ve put an Obama sign in my yard. Well, two of them. And I voted. But not just that… I spent a great deal of time trying to understand the issues at stake so that if someone asked me who I was voting for, I could give at least 3 or 4 primary reasons. Last night some friends came over to my place and we watched Barack Obama win the popular vote as well as the electoral college. I have never been more proud of Obama, his wife Michelle, and their strategists. He is a man who I hope to continue learning from for years to come so when I have children, I’ll be able to point to someone I admire, respect, and honor. His victory speech is one I’ll remember when I’m old and sitting in a rocking chair on the porch. It’s what a president should say and do – unite people. Here’s a toast to Obama.

This day should have happened a LONG time ago.

I spent nearly 17 years living in or around Montgomery, Alabama. I grew up around the low-income housing with rising crime – especially racially-charged fights (motivated by both sides, equally), as well as hate crimes based on religious and sexual orientations. It was a place I escaped I left without any desire to return. Maybe one day, when my own personal fear of that place is replaced with love, I might visit again. My dream is that Obama will unite our country by inspiring people to have hope, intelligence, and a little common sense. I’m tired tired tired of ignorance. I’ve read Obama’s books (and the biography of his wife Michelle too) and it’s the reason I’m inspired to have a child one day.

Mr. President-Elect, I hope the kids like the puppy. After all you have worked, a few licks on the face will certainly be a relief. Please don’t forget about the affluent, hard-working, self-employed.

Love
Isabella
xoxoxoox

P.S. McCain, you gave a good fight. You didn’t have to win presidency for me to talk about you to my future grandchildren. I liked your tax policies better, but I had to – had to – had to vote for Obama. Thank you for your kind speech congratulating Obama. My hopes are now yours.