I was and still remain and avid Obama supporter. I was surrounded by a group of fairly like-minded friends who were Obama supporters as well. When something was said by Senator McCain or Governor Palin that was less than kind, I was the one that got texted by my friends and had to calm them down and reassure them that the way Senator Obama was running his campaign was quietly working. The funny thing was that as I reassured them personally, the Diarists at Daily Kos reassured me on a daily basis. As I watched the election results tonight I thought of this diary. I normally post it on my old MS blog where most of my friends would read it. Tonight though I wanted to share this thought. I know I'm not the only person thinking similar thoughts. but here goes as a first diary for DKos.
Normally, anything about an election, Obama, or MaCain, would be listed under news and politics. Not this morning. This morning I write, shell-shocked, as I prepare for bed and the realization that a man of American and African heritage has just been elected as the President of the United States of America. I am of course happy as I supported him throughout the campaign. I sat transfixed with one of my best friends as we watched the nation not only elect but decisively elect Barack Obama as the 44st American to hold the title of President. I spoke to my mother earlier who, along with other family members, were watching the results elsewhere. I called her once before the various news stations called the election and we were in good spirits. Cautious, but feeling good. I called her again after and she as well as I were mostly speechless. Mom did manage to say something profound to me though. What she said was telling of, I suspect many older African Americans attitude toward American politics. She said: "I never thought that in my life I would see this. I thought I would see a white woman elected before I saw a black man elected President."
I sat and thought about that. I pondered that statement and my own feelings as more states went for now President-elect Obama. I thought about the older African-Americans with tears streaming down their cheeks. I saw the college age kids that were plugged in and involved in American politics. I thought abou the the jeers and boos that erupted as Senator McCain tried to give a gracious concession speech in Arizona. We have come a long way. We still have a ways to go on a lot of issues that resonate with not only progressives, such as myself but all Americans.
It is a funny thing to be a part of a very significant historical turning point in this country. We are only seven years since the last major historical event. That of course is the tragedy of September 11th, 2001. This time period from that point forward is now, I think, a new era of United States history. This new time will not be easy. Epic historical times rarely are easy. I call this new time period, Millenial America.
The word for now and the next four years should and must be: Pragmatism
The goal: Pragmatism coupled with Hope grounded in the new reality of Millenial America.