I've been blogging here since 2006. Ever since Obama announced his candidacy in January of 2007, I've been an outspoken supporter of his. I fought my way through the vitriol of the primary battle like so many other kossacks, on both sides. I did whatever I could - both here and in meat world to defeat John McCain. We all celebrated Obama's victory in 2008.
Since then there have been struggles over HCA, the Stimulus, the Afghan War, civil liberties, DOMA, drone strikes, Bradley Manning, pot, gun control, the debt ceiling, DADT marriage equality, Medicare, Social Security, excetera. The list is long, trust me, I could type all day if I really wanted to get into the nuances of every debate.
Through it all, I've remained steadfastly loyal to the President and his agenda. I've been called too many names to even remember half of them but I have never wavered. Last week, I figured out why I have been so motivated to back this President.
I'll try and explain why after the Rorschach blot.
I've lived through eleven Presidencies, starting with Eisenhower. In all that time there is only one President who has ever acknowledged my existence, and not just once. He thoughtfully does it every year. Barack Obama sends me a Christmas card.
In early December of each year, I perk up whenever I go to check the mail. Last Friday was the big day this year. I spotted it right away. The return address is distinctive: THE WHITE HOUSE, WASHINGTON DC 20500. I'm sure my mail carrier wonders what kind of high mucky muck I must be to receive correspondence from The White House. But I don't let it go to my head.
I eagerly, but carefully, open the large white envelope. This year's card features a gauzy photograph of Bo frolicking in two feet of snow on the white House lawn. As always, it is signed by the entire family. I always take note of how Malia and Sash's penmanship is maturing. Of course, Bo just signs with a paw print, which is incredibly cute and someone, I would guess it's Sasha from the handwriting, signs Bo's name next to the pawprint.
This is always one of the first cards I receive. Michelle is very on top of things. (I don't mean to be sexist, but in my experience , it is almost always the wives who send out the Christmas cards.)
I display it proudly, on a small table in the dining area, but I like to put it behind my other cards so as not to appear like I'm shoving it in my holiday visitors faces.
In fairness, I should point out that this card is really a 'Holiday' card - apologies to Bill O'Reilly and al the folks at FOX - but the Obama Campaign Narwhal database does not have data on precisely which winter solstice holiday you celebrate, though I'm sure their working on it...maybe next year.
The card is inscribed with this message: This season may your home be filled with family, friends, and the joy of the holidays.
Its a lovely sentiment and I would like to pass it along to my fellow Kossacks, one and all, regardless whether you argued for me, or against me, or even if you simply ignored me.
Happy Holidays