[WARNING: this post contains political content]
I can't stop smiling. I am so proud. Proud that we elected our first African American president, when less than 50 years ago it was hard for black to people to vote in many parts of this country. Proud that a majority elected a minority, arguably a first in world history. Proud of the loser of this election, who gave such a gracious speech and peacefully stepped aside.
Proud that America chose a man who so clearly stated what I believe is the potential for our nation and our government:
"It's a promise that says each of us has the freedom to make of our own lives what we will, but that we also have obligations to treat each other with dignity and respect.
It's a promise that says the market should reward drive and innovation and generate growth, but that businesses should live up to their responsibilities to create American jobs, to look out for American workers, and play by the rules of the road.
Ours -- ours is a promise that says government cannot solve all our problems, but what it should do is that which we cannot do for ourselves: protect us from harm and provide every child a decent education; keep our water clean and our toys safe; invest in new schools, and new roads, and science, and technology.
Our government should work for us, not against us. It should help us, not hurt us. It should ensure opportunity not just for those with the most money and influence, but for every American who's willing to work.
That's the promise of America, the idea that we are responsible for ourselves, but that we also rise or fall as one nation, the fundamental belief that I am my brother's keeper, I am my sister's keeper."
We have an uphill battle right now, I know. But I believe we have a fresh start.