When Barack Obama was elected in 2008, my emotions were that of elation mixed with dread. My elation came because America showed the world that despite its history, it could rise above itself and elect the first African American to its highest position.
You see, I was a bystander in the 2008 primary process. When Barack Obama announced his candidacy, I thought he got a chance like Jesse Jackson got a chance. He was uncluttered by the civil right movement which did not endear him to the black establishment. His non-confrontational attitude will make him more palatable to non-blacks but they still will not vote for him. America, especially the Southern part of America has not evolved enough to give the reign of the country to a black man. Thankfully, I did not have to choose between an African American man and a woman since the primary of my state did not count. Anyway, I am one of those dreaded registered independents so I don't get to express my anger or joy through the primary process.
Once that painful process was over, I did work to get Obama elected by giving talent, time and treasure to his run. I was glad to see all the efforts of thousand of volunteers pay off in November. That was my elation.
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