Though I am not a Democrat, I thought they put on a great show this last week. I couldn't help but admire their earnestness and eagerness to improve America. And no one can deny that Bill Clinton is a very genuine and persuasive speaker, he had even me wondering why it is I am voting for McCain? (Oh, yeah . . . Iraq, energy and drilling, conservative judges, sanctity of life, the first amendment . . . .)
Then Obama spoke last night, taking his place in the history books for sure, but also taking his place as an impressive role model and emblem for optimism. During his speech, I kept thinking about the boys I taught in Pensacola during my one year of teaching. Many of the kids there had no fathers at home, and very few male role models in their life. For African American boys in particular, there were no male adults like them, in positions of authority, responsibility, or public office to look up to. Last night, my heart swelled as I hoped that my old students, Frank, D' Angelo, Antoine, Julian, and Ronald, wherever they are, were watching the Democratic candidate and seeing someone who looks just like them. And that Obama would give them confidence that they CAN do anything they want to do.
And then this morning! This morning, I saw a sharp and impressive woman who looks just like me take the stage, with her husband and children and baby behind her, and inspire my ambition, and give me confidence . . . and my heart just burst!
I have a new hero, and her name is Sarah Palin!
