History now

Last night was something I never thought I'd see, something I'd hoped for for so long. A political candidate who is thoughtful, smart, and tuned into the modern world. My good friend Rick Klau, whom I came to know through blogging, spotted Barack Obama as a presidential candidate over four years ago. As soon as I started learning about Obama I realized he was something special, but neither Rick nor I knew that he would become president so quickly, even though we wanted it desperately.

We have done an amazing thing, and I really believe that Obama will go on to be one of our great Presidents. He will certainly face the kind of challenges that one has to face and conquer in order to achieve greatness. Of course, he will not conquer the epic challenges by himself; he will have to win support from many people who up til now have not been inclined to offer it. John McCain gave a great concession speech last night, one of the best I've ever seen. It wasn't a concession speech, really. I believe McCain was sincere in offering to help Obama, which is good because he's someone whose help Obama will need.

We need a President who can work with everyone, who knows how to listen and govern from the middle. Fear-mongering and extremism must be put behind us. I hope we can use the positive energy of this historic moment to go on and do great things. There isn't much time to celebrate. We have a lot of work left to do.

I'm fired up and ready to go.

Comments

[Lou Giansante]

I hope that Obama is all that he seems to be. Regardless, it was nice to share a moment of history with my kids. Taylor, my 13 year old, stayed up until the concession speech and Gino, my 20 year old college student (at Central Florida University), and I were texting during the early returnsbitching about Florida which appeared to be leaning toward McCain.

I don't know what an Obama presidency can mean for us. I remember being pleased when Jimmy Carter was elected and look how that turned out. From what I can see though, I like the man, even thought I think we're in for a bumpy ride.

For selfish reasons, I hope that the new president lifts the Cuban embargo, like he suggested he would in the primary. I can't wait to have coffee in Havana next year. Come visit me in the Cuban Keys.

Lou Giansante

[Mary Moses]

I feel real hope for the first time since September 11th. My cheeks hurt from smiling.

[Legal Recruitment]

Obama is a breath of fresh air that everyone was looking forward to. His landslide win highlights the fact that he influenced people from all walks of life. He managed to garner the support of Americans regardless of their age, color, creed or sex.