Obama mania has spread across the country. For those who are not fans of Obama, I am sorry...but I really love this man....and this is why.........
Growing up in a small town of 3500 people, we read about racism...we didn't live it. We didn't experience it. Occasionally growing up, you may go to Walmart and see someone who does not look like you. But to average St. James, MO, citizens everyone looks the same.
When I moved to college, I finally was exposed to other races, cultures, and ethnic groups. One of the most painful memories was my families reaction to me dating inter-racial. I don't see color. I don't know why color matters to people. We are taught as children that it is the inside of a person that counts not the outside, yet most of my family shunned me and outcasted me for dating out of my race. I stood my ground and dated who I wanted to, but I knew deep down that my family did not approve.
And now as an adult, I am surrounded by minorities. I bought a house in a predomiatly African American and Hispanic population. My neighbors who are Hispanic mean the world to me. It is so hard to see their daily struggles as they are constantly discriminated against for being Mexican.... How can this be in a world full of color, diversity, and uniqueness? How can people think one race is better than any other?
The historic event that unfolded in this Country on Tuesday January 21st, 2009, brings tears to my eyes. I am so proud of our Country. I can't even explain how I feel. I sometimes think that I maybe I should have been born in the 1950's and 1960's so I could have taken a stand for Civil Rights. Obama's presidency doesn't cure the race issue in America, but it is so wonderful to have a man of color in the highest office of the United States. To see pictures of American's hugging in all colors....to see the Inaugration completly full of millions of people.
Next, why I voted for Obama.... Although there are some views that I do not totally agree with. I am for the people and so is Obama. He is for immigration and so am I. Again refer back to the Hispanic neighbors that I have who wonder daily what life in America would be if their entire family were citizens. It's hard to think that one day my sister could be shipped back/deported and for what? The land of the free.... the land of opportunity... these people are only looking for the same things that we look for in life. I do like Obama's health plans, economy stimulation checks, pulling the troops out of a war that Bush made millions off of, and many other views.
With Obama there is hope. Out of all the Presidents in the United States that I have seen in my lifetime, Obama is just like you and me. He is real...not fithly rich like Bush. And his speeches are amazing. I have never turned the channel or turned off the tv while listening to Obama. He has such amazing public speaking skills.
It is so wonderful to hear kids say that they want to grow up and be the next President. I know Obama will be tested and the next four years will show exactly what type of effect his Presidency has on America.
As for today, I am proud to be an American. I am proud to display my flag outside. I believe fully in Obama's presidency and not just because of his color, but for the type of man that he has shown to be.
God Bless America!
