Finally...

You knew it was coming...a blog post about the Election. How could I not blog about something so important?!

First of all, I am so happy/thrilled/relieved/proud/excited/nervous right now. That is a lot of emotions. I am happy and thrilled because America got the election right. It took 8 years to do so, but finally, they got it right! I am also proud because the "ignorant masses" voted for a minority President (something that most people believed they would never see in their lifetime). I am so proud that I got to witness history in the making and be a part of that history. For some people, this is the defining moment for a generation. There was the Baby Boomer generation with JFK's assassination. There was the Vietnam War generation, with the counterculture, too. Gen X and Y, as well. We are defined by significant moments in our society (9/11, Vietnam, Pearl Harbor, Great Depression), and now, we face another one -- Barack Obama's presidency. I am excited for what is to come.

I am so very proud of my country for voting the way they did. Some people are really divided on this issue right now, and think they are living under a socialist government or are thinking of moving to another country. My first thought is, "The feelings that you have now, are the ones that myself and the majority of American's thought the past 8 years, only this is much less extreme." But honestly, I want to thank those who voted for John McCain or a third party candidate, because you took the time to do what you thought was best for your country. You participated in our democracy the way it was set up by our Founders. Your voice was heard, too. You absolutely have the right to be upset about the results not going in your favor; but then, one must move on and work together with whoever is President and continue making our country great. The threat of moving to another country in protest is in no way a protest. It is escaping your problems and taking the easy way out. If you truly love your country and believe in what it stands for; then you work within the system of democracy, by: grassroots efforts to raise awareness of issues and candidates, discussing politics and issues with friends and family, hold peaceful assembly or protests. Our Constitution allows you to do that and make your voice be heard. So stand up for what you believe in and don't run away because you are upset with the result. Now is the best time to be an effective opposition (something you cannot do in Canada). The past 8 years, plenty of Liberals and Democrats and even Republicans claim they will leave the country under Bush, and they too need to understand this fundamental issue.

So please, stand up for what you believe in. Take the higher ground and work within the system of democracy so that next time these vital elections end up how you want them to. The next one is in 2 years. I will see you there.