History

Last night, history was made. The United States elected an African American to be President. Now, I'm not a fan of politics, or politicians, and this campaign cycle has gone on for far too long in my opinion. But what happened last night was remarkable. I certainly believed, and hoped, that I would see an African American as President in my lifetime, but I didn't realize how moving it would be. Citizens of this country turned out in record numbers at the polls yesterday, and for early voting in the weeks beforehand. The passion of the last two elections paled in comparison. The last two elections were about Democrats and Republicans. Yesterday was about so much more.

I won't say who I voted for. But I will tell you that I stood there for a long time before marking my ballot. And I was crying as Mitch and I walked out of the gymnasium, truly torn over whether or not I had made the right decision. Afterall, this was my first time voting as a parent, and it was Tyler and Evan, and their future that was weighing heavily on my mind, and on my heart.

I did not stay up for the results last night - opportunity for sleep is far too important no matter what day it is! - but I watched both speeches online this morning. Senator John McCain conceded with the utmost class. President-elect Obama claimed victory with grace. And they each showed genuine respect for the other. Both speeches moved me to tears.

What I think about now, and what I think it truly amazing, is that assuming Barack Obama is President for the next eight years, my boys, when they are old enough to know what a "president" is, will only ever know a black president. And that is just extraordinary. Perhaps their generation will be truly colorblind. That is a victory, no matter what party you support.