President Obama

Wow.

What a difference a few hours makes, Regardless of whom you voted for, there is no question that history was made last night. The first African-American President was elected by a healthy margin. Yes, change is certainly on the way. No one in this country—or the world for that matter—will ever look at the U.S. the same way again.

It is astonishing to think that a mere 8 years ago, Barack Obama was refused entry to ATTEND the Democratic Convention. He didn’t have credentials to get in. Fast forward to 2008 and there he is, the standard-bearer of the party—and now, President-Elect.

What a country.

Most striking about last night’s speech (and you’ll notice I didn’t call it a “victory” speech) was that at no time did our next President pump his fist or engage in any rhetoric re: the win or the defeat of his opponent. Considering the manner in which he was personally attacked, he would have been entitled to a moment to publicly gloat over the defeat of his rival. But he didn’t. Instead, he was sober and serious and acknowledged that there were millions of Americans who had NOT voted for him. He addressed them, telling them that he wanted to be THEIR President, too.

For his part, Senator McCain was a class act in defeat. In fact, had he spoken DURING the campaign in the mature and wise manner that he did last night, the outcome may have been different.

Barack Obama’s genius is that he SOMEHOW keep race from being a real issue in this race. He transcended ethnic origin to become a uniting force, someone who stood on his ideas and positions rather than the color of his skin.

Perhaps now we can move on. We have shown the world what democracy means: namely, that ANYONE can rise to the top in America—and THIS someone-Barack Obama---has a unique opportunity to transform not only the political landscape, but our national fortunes.

To do so will require compromise, conciliation—and cooperation.

Change is here. Let’s make the most of it!