A New Day

The shot heard around the world has become the vote heard around the world. Yesterday, Nov. 4, 2008, Election 2008, -- goes without saying -- is probably the most historic day I will ever witness in my life. Not to say that there haven't been historic events -- landing on the moon, the attack of America on our soil on Sept. 11, 2001, and other events. But this is one that is a long time coming, and one I'm happy to see for numerous reasons. Now we no longer have to say "if," but "when" for black Americans to be presidential candidates and presidents. I hope it is yet another step in the right direction for when blacks and whites can truly be friends, co-workers and a nation regardless of the color of their skin.

But much more than a race issue, I hope Obama will provide the leadership he's promised us and that his eloquent speech is backed up by substance. I have to have faith that it is. I don't expect him to be perfect in everything he does. I just expect him to try his best and use his best judgment based on the needs of the nation.

I don't really want to press my political views on those who might be reading this, but I do want to say that our wonderful Constitution compels us to support our new president. He may not have been your choice, but please try to give him a chance. If he doesn't do what we want him to, there's another election in four more years. That's what's great about this Great Nation of ours: our right to choose.

Now for something I think is funny. Last night, I watched the action unfolding, glued to my TV, which isn't like me for most political events. Mostly because I think it is a waste of my time. But last night was different. Anyway, living in the Southeast, our results were coming in first, and then there was a big lull waiting for time changes and polls to close across the nation.

Next thing I know, I wake up to see Obama and his family waving at the crowd. Biden and his family waving at the crowd. No one is saying anything. The announcers are quiet. I'm like "What is going on? Who won?" No one was talking. I couldn't tell who had won or lost. Then they all leave the stage, but Obama and his wife were the last to exit -- their heads coming together as they passed through the curtain. And I knew he had won. I stayed awake way too late hoping to see a replay of McCain's and Obama's speeches, but it never happened. I finally went to bed.

I felt like Cinderella who has not found her slipper: I missed the most important moment of the night. Thank goodness there's Internet.

On another note, this one sad: Bestselling author Michael Crichton died today of cancer. He's had a wonderful career entertaining lots of readers, movie goers and television viewers. Whether you like his work or not, this world has lost a great voice that won't be easily replaced. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.