As I sit this Monday morning watching the Kennedy political dynasty endorse Barack Obama for President, I've decided to endorse him as well. I've donated to his campaign and just listened to another speech from Obama which has moved me.

You are probably wondering...what does the endorsement of one individual like myself mean? I'm an average American, living a life of happiness balanced with some anxieties and disappointments. I've had my shares of ups and downs in this life, as has everyone.

When I look at the story of Obama and the inspiration he paints each time he stands before crowds loud and small, I feel something which carries me beyond my anxieties and worries. I won't call it religion, because I am Catholic and first and foremost believe in the foundations of my faith. Looking beyond that though I see something in this senator from Illinois I have not seen in a long time: hope.

His beliefs, visions and ideals, coupled with charisma, make me want to watch him speak, attend his rallies and donate money. It makes me want to say to others...how do you feel about Obama? Does he move you like he moves me? Do you feel a thaw in politics when you watch him speak?

I was once Democratic, voting for Bill Clinton in my early-post college days. I then swung Republican, voting in George W. Bush. My reasons in both of these elections and others are my own, but in the last year I've become truly Independent, no longer registered to either political party. My allegiance is but to my own and my country.

If you ask me for an intelligent debate about why I endorse Obama I'll look at you and smile. I don't agree with all of his positions nor do I know his stance on every topic under the sun. I do know though he stirs patriotism and unity within me in a way no soon to be President has done in a long time.

I therefore endorse Barack Obama as President...do you?