Ever notice people use Clinton’s first name and Barack’s last name? Is that a gender thing?
This weekend was full of messing with bug’s nap time to see the country’s next leader. It was worth it. Major politicians were in my town in Montana. Democrats are actually spending time in the state that elected Judy Martz and Conrad Burns. yes. hope.
On Saturday morning we were one of 7000 people to see Obama speak at The University of Montana. Bug had her first bike ride. I was all amped up in my Obama t shirt that I printed upstairs at the Union Hall in downtown Missoula during a spontaneous and grassroots Obama fundraiser organized by my energetic college professor. Bug even had an Obama onesie.*
The energy in that room gave me chills more than once. I haven’t ever been a part of something like that. It was big. Bigger than I imagined. I was inspired by Obama’s ability to inspire. I was energized by his eloquent, original and accessible message. In my 12 years of voting ability, I haven’t ever felt this hopeful about a candidate.
So, to be fair and balanced (ha!), we also attended Clinton’s rally on Sunday. I hate to say this but it was depressing at first. The crowd just sat there waiting like lichen on a branch. When we entered the Adams Center for Obama, the room was pulsing with stomps and cheers and The Wave. With Clinton, it felt more like church; the excitement was sober and reserved. It was Sunday. But she came and talked and I liked her a lot.
I want Barack’s autograph. I want to have lunch with Hillary. In Baracks’ presence I feel inspired, in Hillary’s I feel comforted.
I want to pick the person who can beat McCain. I want to pick the person who will restore my faith in federal government giving a shit or two about me and my family and art and Montana and gardening and raising a kid while working and dogs and health and the earth and eating good food and ending blood spilled over oil.
I am idealistic. But I feel like I have to be. Really, after nearly a decade of W, my will to have hope in my country’s foreign relations and domestic pride was nearly gone. By the way, when are liberals going to take back patriotism? And the flag? When did those things become unique to Republicans? blech.
So. I find both candidates to be sincere and I think they both have good ideas. I feel like I need and my country needs a person who can affect profound change with this next presidency. It feels very important to do it now or our young nation could become extinct. I think I will vote for Barack Obama. I have thought a lot about it. I would love to hear what others think. My mind could still change.
*If you want a Montana Obama onesie, I’ll make you one and donate the proceeds to Obama. Cost is $20 and $15 will go to Obama. E mail me at nicirae (at) gmail (dot) com.
