I CAN'T STOP SMILING

These beautiful flowers were a present to me, on my 58th birthday, from Odel's daughter Kim (thanks, Kim!). They are sitting on our table, looking beautiful and cheerful - which is exactly how the world looks to me today. I know cynicism will set in again, probably even soon, but right now I am basking in the glow of yesterday's election results.

Yes, it was history, and it puts a smile on my face to know that the majority of Americans (at least, voting Americans), can accept - and maybe even embrace -racial diversity. But I am happiest about the election results because they repudiated trends that have truly scared me.

It is wrong that a candidate's religous beliefs or religious affiliation can be used against them in a campaign. Hearing Obama smeared for being a Muslim - well, he isn't, but so what if he was? Since when does a candidate have to profess a belief in a Christian God - or any God - to be a good leader or representative? How did religious fanaticism become so prevalent in our public discourse? I am thrilled that Elizabeth Dole, who should be ashamed of her political ad calling her opponent "godless", was defeated.

Sarah Palin's McCain-approved comments about Obama "palling around with terrorists", her labeling of those who think like she does as the "real Americans" (so what does that make me??), her sneering at the "elitist media" and her embrace of "Joe Sixpack" - it all horrified me. Watching the bigots at her rallies respond by yelling threats at Obama scared me. I was appalled that McCain did not put a stop to it; he completely lost my respect over that.

I agree with people who feel Obama lacks experience, but there is no denying his oratorical skills. With such significant problems to be faced and solved, the ability to connect with, to inspire and to motivate Americans to constructive action (other than "go shopping") might be one of the more important attributes for a president taking office today. Last night, when I listened to Obama, I put my cynicism aside. I was moved. I am inspired, and hopeful, and excited. I turned 58 yesterday, and I am feeling younger than I have in the past 8 years. :)