Morning (rather, afternoon, I suppose) in America

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Four years ago when I wrote this post, I was sad.  I was sad more that Bush had won - again - than that Kerry had lost.  I was sad that again there were votes that might change the outcome that would never be counted.  I was frustrated with the way that Bush was handling his alleged victory.

And I was also disappointed at the continued narrative of polarization of America; of hearing otherwise open minded and caring people talk of violent action against those who voted for a candidate they didn't care for; of otherwise open minded and caring people lament the stupidity of entire regions of this country.

In the words of the 44th President of these United States, "we have never been a collection of Red States and Blue States: we are, and always will be, the United States of America."

Today, I am thrilled, not sad.  I am excited, not frustrated.  I have hope - that the people of this nation can put their differences behind us.  Six months ago, conventional wisdom had it that supporters of Hillary Clinton would refuse to support Barack Obama - not because of his positions or his politics, but because of acrimony and bitterness on both sides of that contest.

We proved them wrong.  Yes we did.

I hope that with Obama's stirring words and McCain's graceful concession, that we can all move forward into a less partisan, more understanding future.

That may be too much to hope for, but one year, even six months ago, so arguably were yesterday's results.

Let's prove them wrong.