Let me get this right out there: today I am voting for Barack Obama. I hope that you won’t stop reading if you’re a McCain supporter because I am not about to try and influence your vote. Nor I am about to defend my vote. I only ask that you will respect my decision. Because lately I’m feeling downright disrespected.
I don’t talk about it much on the blog but I am a political junkie. I listen to talk radio, I read political blogs, I talk about politics with my family and friends a lot. I make my decisions based on issues that matter to me and on values that I support. I do my research and I pick my sides. And I get mad and passionate and fierce when I have to defend my beliefs.
In the last few weeks I have been called anti-American. I have been called an over-educated liberal from New England. I have been called stupid and I have been accused of drinking the Kool Aid. The other day someone actually said to me, “Go on ahead and vote for the black guy just so you can feel good about yourself. But if you have a mortgage and bills to pay then you’re going to vote for John McCain.” I was pretty furious and I lashed out. I said that of course I have a mortgage and bills to pay. And I said my vote for Obama has nothing to do with having a mortgage. My vote for Obama has to do with the issues I deem important. Because the things that matter to me most - a strong economy, paying fair taxes, universal health care, a woman’s right to choose - most closely match with Obama’s views.
My choice has absolutely nothing to do with the color of Obama’s skin - I’d vote for him if he was purple. My choice isn’t because I distrust John McCain or feel Sarah Palin is unqualified. It isn’t because of 8 years of George Bush or Dick Cheney or Karl Rove. It’s not about the war in Iraq or the No Banker Left Behind Act. Do those things factor into my decision? To quote Sarah Palin, “you betcha!” But are they the overriding factors? Absolutely not.
And here’s the bottom line: my choice is my choice. Just as your choice is your choice. And I will defend your choice just as fiercely as I defend my own. All I ask is that we discuss things with mutual respect and understanding. I have several close friends who are voting for McCain and we have had many conversations about this election. We don’t agree but we listen to each other. And then we let it go. And we talk about knitting or restaurants or television shows. We talk about our kids and our home improvement projects and our mutual friends. We all have much more we agree about than we disagree about.
Other than the obvious - a clear and decisive victory for Obama - I have one other thing I’d like to see happen when this election is over. I’d like to see us all move forward and let go of the anger. No more name calling, no more finger pointing, no more hatred. Even if we don’t all agree on how to get there we all want what’s best for America. Right?
So go out there and vote. Watch the returns. Root for your candidate. Celebrate if he wins. Cry if he loses. And then move on. Tomorrow morning we’ll still all be Americans. And this will go back to being a knitting blog.
gale (she shoots sheep shots) Said,
yay Carole. Excellent post and well put, you just said what’s been in my head for weeks.
Kris Said,
Well said Carole!
Nora Said,
YES!
Thank you. You’ll be getting visitors from me today.
Tina M. Said,
You said it, I said it last night too! I’ve always admired how intelligently you speak for your beliefs, and I’m proud that you are voting on your values and the available facts, not fear. To me, anyone who votes that way, regardless of whom they vote for, is voting in the true spirit of what it means to be an American.
Toni Said,
my opinion of you hasn’t changed - I still think you are a fantastic knitter
Carolyn Said,
I was going to type “Well said!” but everyone else who commented already said that. I, too, am voting for Sen. Obama and have sat and listened to some of my friends whom I consider smart, highly educated and up on current events talk such garbage about a very patriotic person who seems to only want to do right by his family and his country. It has been an herculean effort to keep my mouth shut when I hear their fear talking because America has a candidate who looks different from them and has a “funny sounding” name. I have made it clear to them that, in my opinion, the last 8 years hasn’t worked for America and I am very willing to give the “new guy” a chance to fix it and make it better. This doesn’t make me a supporter of a “terrorist” or a “socialist”, it makes me a very proud and hopeful American!
Estella Said,
Thanks for this post, Carole! This is one of the hardest elections for me to vote in…thing is I have always voted Republican and for the first time someone has turned my head, made me think, made me question and given me hope. Today I will be voting for Obama and I too hope everyone can move past all the pettyness.
DebbieB Said,
Respect for others seems to fall by the wayside during political discussions. Sad. I will be happy to see dawn tomorrow.
Karen Said,
Well said Carole. I went bright and early this morning and cast my vote. The lines were long already but moved pretty fast. What an exciting day!
Kat Said,
Today, alot of republicians will be voting for Obama. My hubby, a staunch repub, pleasantly surprised me last week, and told me he was voting for Obama. We even went down and voted early. Something is in the air. Can you feel it?
Kathy Said,
You snotty woman’s college girl
What are you thinking on Question 3 — thought I’d ask you since it does really affect the economy closer to you.
You know I was a Hill girl, but I’m impressed with Obama, or as my little one calls him, Obock Obama. He’s won me over with him calmness, thoughfulness and hopefulness. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that today marks the dawn of something new (oy, I
think that’s a lyric from High School Musical.)
Carol Said,
The fear mongering has upset me the most in this campaign. I am disappointed more than anything that being called educated is an insult. That ’socialism’ is somehow a bad word (Heck I’d love to retire to Sweden or Norway). I hadn’t dared believe we had given up on ourselves as a nation but all these things seem to point that way. Is it the result of the past 8 years? If so, I hope we can all move on.
Sonya Said,
Great post, Carole. I’ve been baffled by the fact that us vs. them campaigning appeals to some people. And don’t even get me started on the anti-intellectualism. Have a great election day!
Maxly Said,
Great post. Well thought out, so I can understand how your vote is, also.
I was/am a Hillary supporter and when she was knocked out of the race I really had to but long thought into how I would vote. It wasn’t an easy and clear decision like past years.
I am in India right now for work and the election is the first question that I am asked about and politics are a normal course of conversation here. It is more of a spirited debate than what I have experienced at home in Texas. There, you are either right or wrong in the choice being made. And are discounted if an opposing view is expressed.
I usually do not share my vote. It is my business, I don’t even tell my husband (he can usually figure it out) but this year, I put a bumper sticker on my car. It was with trepidation and a bit of concern, though. Either candidate was bringing so much anger from people.
What I found was many, many people coming up to me in parking lots sharing with me that they too are supporting my candidate. It has been like a secret that only a unknown talkative person next you on a long airplane ride will share. They figure they will never see you again, so why not tell the inner most fear with a stranger.
I voted early, before flying to New Delhi. And, I just wonder if with all those parking lot secrets shared if Texas just might be a little less red and a little more blue.
Go Obama. I want the world to respect us/US again.
Dave Daniels Said,
Are you a fellow WTKK junkie? (I have that on most of the day at work.)
Mary K. in Rockport Said,
Me too, we too. But if the Republicans win again this time, we’re joining a movement to get the coalition of Blue States to secede from the Union.
Karen Said,
I’ll be headed out to vote in a while and I’m taking my 5 year old with me so he can see how important it is to vote. My daughter cast her ballot a couple of weeks ago and my husband will vote after work. I’d love it if we could have a 100% turn out.
Kate Said,
I vote Libertarian. You vote Democrat. That’s what great about this country. I am for the government staying out of my house, my purse and my body.
Work is heating up with political debates and yesterday, I had to very professionally tell my boss that I would not be sharing my vote with her b/c I was afraid of repurcussions. Imagine, feeling that your job is threatened b/c you vote differently.
margene Said,
Amen.
Just sent Smith off to work the polls. My heart will be in my throat until tomorrow. Here’s to hope.
Bethe Said,
I couldn’t agree more. I’m tired of the hate and I’m tired of the negativity. I too have made what I feel is an educated decision to vote for the candidate that supports the issues I believe in and I will go cast my vote for Obama tonight and (hopefully) have plenty to celebrate. Then I will get up and go to work tomorrow just like any other day.
liz Said,
What I want to ask McCain/Palin is how is it that apparently I am not a “real” American and yet I still have to pay real taxes?
Laurie Said,
I never talk politics. Hatehatehate ‘em and what it does to rational people when opinions clash.
Kirsten Said,
Well said Carole!
I’ve just returned from the polls, and will proudly wear my “I Voted” sticker all day. I live in a town where I hold my political views very close to my chest since I differ with most here. I have been encouraged in this election to see so many signs supporting my candidate. Perhaps this election will show that divisiveness is not a way to victory.
I agree with the other commenters who are horrified at the trend toward anti-intellectualism. Isn’t intellectual, creative and innovative thought something to be esteemed?
marianne Said,
Well said, Carole!
My vote (and Bobby’s) will be for Sen. Obama.
Living in a Really Red state is rough, lots of folks ’scared’ and resorting to ‘bluster’… hmmmm, sounds familiar…. I believe it’s well past the time for our country to grow up, mature, leave the petulant juvenile behavior behind.
Lisa Said,
Like the others before me - well said!! I tend to keep my views close to me mainly because I’m not very good at verbally expressing my thoughts. I am excited about voting for Obama today and hope that tomorrow we will all be able to put our differences aside no matter what happens and move on.
Jennifer Said,
Amen sister. My vote is going for McCain and folks have made the inuendo that I a religious fanatic or racist! What!?! McCain represents more closely my views( not perfectly, there never will be a perfect candidate) just like Mr Obama represents yours. I have harped over and over to my kids and anyone who will listen that what we are seeing from both sides is a lack of respect. Respect means you give the other side time to talk, you’re not rude, and you don’t make fun of their opinion. I long for the day when the media stops covering politics. I know that sounds crazy but once you’ve heard their platforms what more do you need? I respect your vote, your views and I hope that you don’t have to stand in long lines. But if you do I know you’ll be prepared with a sock!
Dawn Said,
I like how you said what you needed to say. Very well put. Preach it sistah!
jessica~ Said,
Well said, Carole!!
maryse Said,
so very well written carole. ok, i’m going to cry again. i’ve been very weepy these past couple of days.
Wool Winder Said,
My prayer is that God’s will be done.
Knitnana Said,
Beautifully stated. And I’m so with you. Sick and tired of hearing the slurs; do not, never have, understood them. I vote issues (which surprises those who *think* I vote gender) and consider them carefully. I’m amazed at the insensitivity of this particular election, the nastiness of the campaign (it just gets worse every year).
(and I’m a political junkie, too)
(I knit in line with my sock this morning…a 50 minute wait)
(((hugs)))
Chris Said,
Very well said, Carole. To paraphrase (I’ve forgotten who…) - I may not agree with what you say/believe, but I’ll defend your right to do so… and I damn well hope you do the same for me. I don’t think most people have any clue how to respectfully disagree with each other anymore. They feel threatened by difference (race, ethnicity, belief, etc) and lash out instead of trying to understand. Being reactionary, fear mongering, attacking people who disagree… if those are signs of our times, we’re in very sad times indeed. I’m voting for hope today, not fear.
britt Said,
Carole, very well put. This is why I am not a political junkie. I can not allow both sides (note I said both sides since I tend to agree with only half of each one) to tell me I am ignorant/stupid blah blah blah blah blah. Thankfully there are junkies like you, but I will stick to my opinions and avoid the hate that I feel from both political parties
Joy Said,
Thank you! Very well put - I hate the nastiness on both sides, and hope the country as a whole can move past it once the election is over.
Kim Said,
Well written!
I’m with Laurie, I rarely talk politics as I hate that it seems to bring out the worst in people.
I’m off to vote
Leah Said,
Exactly! Very eloquently put my friend!
Tammy Said,
Thank you for your clear, concise expression of your views. The media could learn something. I took my kids to local campaign HQ’s for each party last night in the hopes of meeting some local candidates and getting info on ballot issues. Everyone was so focused on presidential nominees in both HQ’s that there was very little info on the local candidates and only ONE sheet that covered all (6) the ballot issues and they didn’t have copies that I could take with me so we stood there and read it in the HQ! I was really disappointed in BOTH parties. I really want to teach my children to vote the issues and not just be swayed by the “ads” so it was disappointing at best., We did have some great discussion though about stereotypes - gender and race and how different people were affected by and responded to stereotypes. I try to allow my kids to have their own opinions and respect that they do. I enjoy hearing their opinions and the rationale for such. We really had extensive discussions about what you just opined - the need to respect differences in not only opinion but other differences including gender, religion and skin color. So, although I HATE the ugliness that I have seen in this election season, I feel responsible to express my dislike for it and hopefully, by doing so, will raise tolerant, respectful citizens for future elections. I really believe that the hate-mongering makes both candidates and us as citizens all the losers in a process that very well could be a win-win situation. We as a society lose when we choose to hurl invectives rather than reach out with curiosity and tolerance. My prayer is that regardless of “winner” that Wednesday we all wake up with a greater sense of understanding and a unified desire for a better country. BTW - I was #56 @ my polling place and I live in OH!! T
jillian Said,
Well said! And it is so heartening to know that there are people, somewhere, that can talk reasonably on both sides of this issue and still be respectful, remain friends. It is a sad state of affairs in this Country - for all of our freedoms it is as though we aren’t allowed freedom of choice, not without risk of recrimination. I am all for Barack too, and also both because I am for his policies personally and petrified at what the current GOP establishment has accomplished in the last 8 years.
elizabeth Said,
I voted this morning - doing my little bit to turn Alabama pink!
Carrie Said,
I have to be civil - my dad and my DH are on “the other side”. I always wonder what that sort of snotty comment (drink the koolaid, voting for the black dude, whatever) is supposed to do. Does the speaker think it’s going to open a discussion? Does the speaker think I’ll change my vote because I’ve been belittled? Or is it just intended to be hurtful? Cuz if it’s the first two, they’re going about it in the wrong way, and if it’s the last, I’m not aligning myself with someone like that.
mai Said,
amen. a very eloquent and moving blog post right there. i voted this morning and could not be more excited about it. here’s to VA going blue.
Chris H Said,
“I’d vote for him if he was purple”..of course, if he was purple, he’d likely not be breathing…LOL (And then I got to thinking about other colors, like orange, but then that might mean a liver problem, or green, but….oh, anyway,…lol)
As always, your eloquence is greatly admired. My kids and I have been talking a lot about this election, and I was reminded that no matter who wins, we will have a “first time” situation, and my boys are excited to be witnessing this history.
blogless sharon Said,
GREAT BLOG CAROLE, YOU AND I HAVE HAD MANY A SPIRITED DISCUSSION. IM FOR MCCAIN BUT NO MATTER THE OUTCOME TOMORROW YOU AND I WILL BE HOPEFUL FOR THE FUTURE AND ROOTING THAT OUR NEW PRESIDENT LEAD US IN A POSITIVE DIRECTION.
Catie Said,
My mother accused me the other day of “drinking the California Kool-Aid” That’s my kind of beverage, thanks! And to think, those at the Economist and Colin Powell are all drinking the same cocktail. Good for us!
Mary in Boston Said,
“I’d like to see us all move forward and let go of the anger. No more name calling, no more finger pointing, no more hatred. Even if we don’t all agree on how to get there we all want what’s best for America. Right?”
I hope this happens as well.
Thank you for this excellent post.
Risa Said,
Well said.
Hillary Said,
I’m wearing my “I voted” sticker and I’m hoping that Obama wins. I do hope that whatever the outcome is, we can all come together and stop the name calling and ugliness. I’m hoping that once this election is behind us the country can move forward in a positive manner.
LittleWit Said,
Hugs. It gets rather cutthroat doesn’t it? I wonder when the idea of political discourse left our country leaving behind the muck raking. Here’s to a better tomorrow, when perhaps we can finally return to some civility.
Amy Said,
Amen. I wish the election season would become more civil and far less contentious. It’s a stress no one needs.
Vicki Said,
Excellent, Carole. Positive and hopeful. I hope it all comes true.
Jackie Said,
Yes!!! Yes yes yes yes yes.
I traditionally fall on the other side of the vote, but I have experienced exactly the same sort of constant attack and derision for my (moderate!) views. There has been precious little tolerance on either side of the issues.
I am disappointed and frustrated when people throw out the ‘if this election doesn’t go the way I’d like, I’m leaving this country/we should secede’ because that seems the opposite of supporting the democratic process, and moving forward together after the election.
Thanks for writing such a thoughtful, and hopeful, post.
Visionsister Said,
Very well put, thank you for stating so well what I’ve been thinking. Here’s to hope!
Danielle Said,
Amen. Now, let’s go back to being decent human beings, please!
Cheryl Said,
Way to go Carole! You just said everything I’ve been thinking. I’m sick of this whole smear campaign!
Judy Said,
here! here! I’m with you all the way!
Imbrium Said,
Amen.
I’ll admit to thinking some unkind things about people who are voting for The Other Guy (though I know precious few people who fall into that category,) but when I start to get all self-righteous I remind myself that everyone is entitled to their opinion and force myself to let it go. I can’t imagine letting my emotions get so out of control that I would call someone else anti-American and stupid…that’s beyond rude.
Birdsong Said,
Yay for your commentary and standing up to the nasties… I am mighty tired of that part of election year. I am an NPR junkie and have been following the degeneration of campaigning rather tiredly, but then have also heard great stories of hope. Amy (Purple Fuzzy Mittens) is a college librarian in Reno, where early voting has been taking place at public spots such as their Student Union and she was excited to report long lines of students waiting to vote through the past week… long live democracy. Personally, I am hoping for an Obama win and a return to civility in this country!
diane Said,
Scroll down to Oct 23 I think, it will bring a smile…http://indigodi.typepad.com/my_weblog/
Nell Said,
Nothing and no one will change this country if we can’t all come together. After the last 2 elections, the country has been so divided. I truly hope that we can all put our differences aside to make real and lasting change a reality.
And I love that “over-educated” is now an insult. Sheesh!
gayle Said,
Well said! And thank you. I couldn’t add a thing.
Allison Said,
Thank you for putting into words what I have been feeling. I think its more important that people get out there and vote for whomever and whatever they feel is the better choice. Period. Our freedom to choose and influence our govenment is one the greatest rights we have as Americans. We should all take advantage of it.
Teresa Said,
Carole, you said a mouthful! And rightly so. I too am a political junkie and a staunch supporter of Barak Obama, but I would not stoop to calling someone else names because they chose to vote for John McCain. Everyone has a right to their own opinion and all of us who can vote have a right to choose! Way to go!.
Katie K Said,
Here in NYC it’s a bit different. Friends of ours that are Obama supporters have been very pushy. I voted for Obama during the primary and then felt like crying afterwards, because he didn’t really reflect my views (I supported Edwards, but he had withdrawn from the race), going on the better of 2 evils way of thinking.
Today I voted for Nader. He supports universal health care, same-sex marriage, is completely pro-choice, and an immediate pull-out from Iraq. Unlike Obama.
The bottom line is that my vote belongs to me, not anyone else, as does yours. I hope that after the election, dialog as you have described it will be possible and nobody will be made to feel un-American.
Dee Said,
When I vote for members of Congress or my state legislature, I vote as you do, for the individual that reflects my beliefs on issues important to me. When I vote for President, I vote for the individual that will shape our foreign affairs and possibly nominate a Supreme Court justice. If you will, my view is Congress has the domestic power and the President has the foreign power, and so I vote accordingly.
The candidates all want what is best for America - each just may have a different definition of “best’.
Bottom-line, you have to vote if you want to be heard.
Jess Said,
No matter who you are voting for there is name calling and stereotyping. It’s ugly. No fun. I can’t wait for tomorrow!
Beth in STL Said,
I’m definitely ready for the whole mudslinging, name-calling heap of B.S. to be over. I voted this morning before work; when I checked my email at work, there was an anti-Obama “joke” from my father that left a nasty taste in my mouth. I wish I could respond, but I have no idea what to say to him; our viewpoints are almost diametrically opposed these days. I’m tired of the words “known terrorist”, “socialist” and “anti-American”.
I think one writer I saw on the net has the right idea: No campaigning more than six months before the election, and forbid the candidates from mentioning anything about their opponent, only about their own views and plans.
elisa Said,
One of the (many) things I love about you is that you understand what it means to be honest and frank while maintaining your dignity and always being respectful of differing viewpoints.
And I simply couldn’t agree with you more.
I am OVERJOYED that I was able to cast my ballot FOR someone I believe in.
Ruth Said,
Amen.
sue Said,
Well said.
My 19 year old son and I just finished voting…. I think we canceled each other out. Oh well.
Beverly Said,
I couldn’t have said it better myself. Ignore others and do what is best for you. 3 cheers for Carole!
Sara Said,
Very well said, Carole! I, too, voted for Barack Obama - because I want a chance for a change! And, his values are the closest to mine and what is imporatant to me.
HB Said,
yea!! Let’s try to keep it positive while we move forward - I hope Obama wins but agree we as a country need to hold our elected officials accountable, regardless of party. Thanks, Carole!
Beth Said,
Great post, Carole.
Kelly Said,
Hey Carole! Well, I voted for The Other Guy, but I respect your opinion and your right to vote for whomever you choose (and I will continue to read you blog)! Isn’t that what our country is all about?
--Deb Said,
Well put! I voted for Obama, too, but at least respect McCain enough that I can deal if he somehow pulls it off … though, if he does after the inept campaign his campaign-people have run, it really will be a miracle comeback. Strictly just looking at the campaigns, one was well-done, smooth and professional, one looked like a meltdown of finger-pointing. On that basis alone, I want the folks who knuckled down and did their jobs WELL to get win (grin). I admit that Ms. Palin scares me–but then, so does Ms. Pelosi. (Really, isn’t there any way I could vote HER out of being in charge of the House?)
Julie Said,
Wonderful post, Carole! Thanks for saying what a lot of us have been feeling (on both sides, I believe). This election has really gotten people worked up, in good ways and bad. I also voted for Obama, but like you, I have friends who are for McCain. Our political views do not totally define us.
Nancy Said,
If Canadians were permitted to vote in the US election, a majority would be voting for Obama. In fact on many of the Canadian Political Satire shows they’ve made a point of talking about it. One joke during our recent election was that people wanted to choose Barack Obama on the ballet. Sad that our own election had the worst voter turnout in history. Some interesting choices on our ballet. One was the Radical Marijuana party, not sure what their platform is but I’m sure after a while you don’t care!!
Glad to hear that the polls have long lines today!
Jan Said,
I heartily agree with your perspective. I voted early (two weeks ago) and have been excitedly awaiting this day.
Sarah Said,
Well said, Carole. Please, don’t make me watch the returns.
kmkat Said,
Hear, hear. (I voted for him, too.)
Chrissie Said,
Bravo! Nicely stated!
I’m looking forward to Sat night with you and Dween!
jill Said,
AMEN!
deb Said,
Well said. But what I really want to know (and I believe Carol King aked it best) is “Will you still love me tomorrow?”
Cookie Said,
/returning six hours after reading this the first time
Well said, Carole.
Thank you for putting me in a better mood before I headed out to vote this morning. I hope the chinese food was/is yummy.
xo
Lee Ann Said,
Dammit, Carole, you’re making me cry.
If you were closer, I’d drive right over there and give you a hug.
Kat Said,
Wonderfully written. Thank you.
Mandy Said,
Ah, I think I love you. What a great day in our history together. For the first time in my voting life, I feel like I was part of an extraordinary change.
Manise Said,
Amen sister! And so eloquently said. I’m sorry you were treated so disrespectfully! I keep my politics to myself because of the repercussions around me and the divisiveness it creates. I voted and am so ready for positive changes ahead! What a great day!
Esther Said,
Hi Carole,
Well said. I too hope that soon respect for the American People will be back.
I have many friends who wouldn’t visit the US while GWB was president, now they will come back ( I’m Swiss).
I always knew that the people ISN’T GWB!! Everybody was always friendly and just struggling with everyday life…
You did it, yes!
Leslie Said,
I’m excited for our new leader, and the new opportunities and possibilities ahead. It IS time to work together for the good of all citizens of our country!
Laura Said,
Amen.
melissa Said,
I appreciate your opinion and the way you present it. I appreciate that you don’t criticize those who voted differently than you did. On the other hand, I would like to point out that, by voting for Obama and his redistribution of wealth philosophy, you are taking away other people’s choice as to whom they choose to give their money. I don’t want my government to donate money on my behalf as a taxpayer; I want to retain that decision for myself. Now that Obama is President-elect, that choice has been further taken away from me. The Democratic philosophy is all about big government and equality. But what about those of us who have worked harder than others for what we have. Face it, we are not all equal and to say that we are ignores those of us who go to work every day and don’t expect a handout. We earn our money and want to retain the right to choose how to use it, whether it be to keep it for ourselves or to give it away. THAT is freedom!
Teyani Said,
well said.
good for you!
I never knew that you were a political-gal
Linda Said,
Touche and very well said!!!!!!
Lynne Said,
The interesting thing is, it seems that with the several past elections we go through such embarrassingly overt rudeness and nastiness. It’s tiresome. I won’t be a part of it. I’m am a conservative and proud of it, but good grief, can we all get over ourselves? I would never think to outright offend someone or say something that may potentially create an issue…I was getting my hair cut the other day and I was shocked at the boldness and abrasiveness of the comments made…not knowing who in the room might be listening and may be offended or hurt by the remarks. I wonder sometimes if we have just lost our good manners. I was always taught that if you can’t say something nice, don’t say it at all. And seriously, as I mentioned in my blog post today, no matter who is president, there is nothing to stop us from going out there and being a positive influence. Thank you. I love my socks.
Mary Said,
“Huzzah!”
..says another over-educated New England liberal
Seanna Lea Said,
I am happy that Obama won last night, but when I was watching the speeches at the end I was saddened. If McCain showed as much humility and honor in the campaign as he did in his speech last night, then the election would have been very different in its nature if not its results. I would have been happy to listen to the contest between two educated, reasoning individuals treating each other and their positions with a kind of quiet honor.
Maybe more politicians will realize that they don’t have to be negative to make their positions known and to win the day.
JessaLu Said,
Every Thursday we have friends come over for dinner and Survivor (yes, I’m a rabid Survivor fan from season 2 on, don’t judge me. ;op) and the election has come up a couple of times. Each and every time I have been completely astonished by the ignorance shown by people whom I have considered good friends for 10 years. Last week I’d had about enough and lost my temper. To sum up, I yelled, “I don’t care if he worships a special rock he keeps on a shelf, his religion does. not. matter. to. me. and frankly, it shouldn’t matter to YOU (meaning my friends) all that MATTERS is whether he can LEAD US out of this NIGHTMARE” and then proceeded to lose all control of my emotions. *sigh* I’m pretty sure they’re still my friends ;op I’m also ecstatic that this is over and hopeful that we can heal as a country.
Good post, Carole. Do you think it’s possible that someday we can have a purple president? That’d be kinda cool, dontcha think? ;o)
Kern Said,
Carole,
I havent read your blog before but I will now. Nope, not an Obama support-and not a McCain one really either. But what I like about your post is your message of mutual respect. Believe me, as a moderate to conservative, over-educated TEXAN I get a lot of abuse and name calling as well. I can well remember the horrible arrogance of the Clinton campaign and presidency-and how embarrassed I was to be in Europe during the Monica Lewinsky deal. And I have had to listen to people scream for the last 8 years that “he’s not my president” or “shrub” but now are saying we should all respect the office of president even though my candidate was not chosen.
Yes, Respect is the answer. There is, after all, room for dissent in this great (not perfect) but still great country of ours.
“I’d like to see us all move forward and let go of the anger. No more name calling, no more finger pointing, no more hatred. Even if we don’t all agree on how to get there we all want what’s best for America. Right?”
Right.
Doris Said,
I got here from the Harlot’s post, and worked back through some of your posts. And while I was not an Obama supporter (and not necessarily a McCain lover either), your post is dead on. I live in Maryland, where to be a McCain supporter was considered pretty much to be “anti-American” here. I basically kept my opinions to myself, because I was tired of arguments rather than discussions on issues. I got the feeling that I was not entitled to my opinion. I love your thoughts on mutual respect and individual choice. My 21 year old son has commented that the part he did not like about his first presidential election was the disrespect that he saw from people on both sides. The majority has spoken, and I can truly say that I hope to be proven wrong in my choice, because that would mean that our great country is better off for this election. How can anyone hope for anything else, no matter which candidate they voted for? And things will be better for all of us if we all work together and learn to do so respectfully.
Kazelmne Said,
Hi webmaster!