Posts with the tag inspiration

Don't Just Sit There -- DO SOMETHING!

Blue Girl in South Carolina — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 11:53:06 EDT

I've been in a financial hardship for the past several months due to a major job loss. In this time, I have consistently put in resumes, conducted follow-up calls, and made in-person visits hoping to land a stable position. Unfortunately, the economy is not cooperating with me; nor are prospective employers, who can't afford to take on more workers. So here I am...I'm hanging on by a thread but I still believe that our President, for whom I voted, is still going to turn this country around in a positive way.

That's why it's so critical that even if you're not in the best financial shape, healthy constitution, or otherwise, we must ALL do our part by participating in EVENTS that make a statement and create a buzz to generate REAL support for the issues in which we believe. My primary goal is to get a universal health care program installed in our governmental system -- if all else fails, I'll opt for the public option -- meanwhile, some politicians and media talking heads are trying to say that it can't be done.

They're trying to say that we "can't" have it.

They're trying to say that they don't care about us.

They're trying to say that we don't matter.

Well, we DO MATTER. And God willing, if we put our hearts, minds, and spirits together, we CAN get this thing off the ground. Sittting at home yelling at the news channel is not going to accomplish anything. Sitting at our desks, keying rants and raves about how we feel is not going to get it done.

The ONLY WAY we CAN GET REAL HEALTH CARE REFORM is if we PUT OUR THOUGHTS and WORDS to ACTION. Participate in events, organize events, help orchestrate a candlelight vigil, a rally, a sit-in, a march...DO WHATEVER IT TAKES to MAKE THEM LISTEN.

We will not go gently into the night. We will not fade into the sunset...TODAY IS OUR TIME. WE ARE THE ONES WE'VE BEEN WAITING FOR!! LET'S GET GOING!!!

Peace!!!

My request

Chad from Minnetonka, MN — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 23:29:53 EDT

Outside of a Sociology course at the University of Minnesota I have never had any interest in ever posting anything on the web. I am venturing into this with skepticism and limited ideas. I don't see how this could possibly help but I am looking to be inspired. IF anybody who exudes positivity accidentally reads this, feel free respond by simply stating what inspires you or has inspired you in the past. As of August 6, my son will turn 1 year old and outside of following the election, all news and politics, even the lighter side of news has seems eons away as I have been preoccupied for the majority of the last 2 years preparing for and attempting to raise a son. I am totally occupied my families existence and I fear that if I don't reach out that I will in some way be limiting my knowledge of life that I will be able to pass on to my son and share with my wife. So take a moment to share your inspirations. On second thought the one thing that I am extremely interested in finding out more is Wind energy.

ORGANIZING FOR AMERICA - Have You Seen This Video Yet?

Steve Sulkin — Mon, 25 May 2009 23:17:10 EDT

Organizing for America - Have you seen This Video Yet? More then ever, you need it now to re-kindle the spirit that lived in us all prior to the election.

We need to get this video out in the public eye in a big way to re-kindle the spirit of optimism that existed prior to the election of President Obama.

Yes We Can (Change our Destiny) that is what we need to understand.

Post the inaugural, post the election, post the optimism fading, post the Republican's battle of the wills, it's sad to see our country slowly slipping back to the bad ol' days when the President is simply a news curiosity, just some guy in the White House. Barack Obama is more then that. He is the change we all voted for.

When I get pessimistic that such talk as the above is simply the talk of a dreamer, I hear President Obama speak. For instance, his speech at Notre Dame. It was historic, incredible, inspiring. it reminded me why I was so filled with hope on November 4th, 2008. When I hear him speak, I still get uplifted and remember who is in the White House.

But let us not forget the obvious, he's a human being, he can't correct everything at once, he has information now as President about our country we will never know and he is, I am confident, desperately trying to balance it all. I have not agreed with every move, espeically preventitive detention, but should we need or expect to agree with everything that anyone does? I agree with most and that's good enough for me to be a great supporter of his. I speak out when I don't agree with President Obama or anyone, but that doesn't mean I don't ardently support President Obama. In the past, I agreed with very little our Presidents have done, so this is an extremely refreshing change, especially at a time in our history which is unparalleled in it's complexity and danger to our society, our country and our world.

My only personal regret is that the video I directed and produced to keep the dreams alive, Yes We Can (Change our Destiny) has not been endorsed by Organizing for America and posted on its home page (or endorsed by Oprah or some such celebrity that can bring instant distribution to this cause, this quest to make optimsm and involvement the norm). This video should be endorsed by someone or some organization of such stature. It should be the rallying cry that we all remember to say to ourselves every day, that "YES WE CAN CHANGE OUR DESTINY." If we realize that simple truth, that we are in control of our destinies, we will work hard for change. We will become involved. Pessimism occurs when we believe we aren't in control, when we believe that hope is lost, when we believe that we can't make a difference. But the election proved how much we can change the world, how much we can accomplish when we act in unity with hope and optimism, when our world collectively believes that YES WE CAN CHANGE OUR DESTINY.

I have tried to move on, to concentrate on other causes, problems and issues in our world and my life, to not continue to push so actively to get this video "out there" more. But every time I lose hope and become pessimistic about our world, I listen to my own words in that video and I realize that Yes I can Change My Destiny and the world's destiny, that I can be part of that, that I'm not just a weak individual without a voice. I'm just as capable of changing our world as anyone. Ghandi, Rosa Parks, Mother Theresea, John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King, Maria Montessori, Jonas Salk, Orville & Wilbur Wright, Barack Obama, yes, these are great people, but they are people, regular individuals that began with simply a dream, to change our world. When you look back through history, it's not countries or corporations that created transformative change, it was individuals. The power of the individual is stunning.

If anyone out there in the administration of Organizing for America listening please take a moment to watch this video. It's only 5 minutes. I'm a professional filmmaker, I promise you, it will be worth your time. This video was made as my service to America. But with "only" 130,000 + views (which is teeny tiny in the world of YouTube) which occurred mostly around January 20, 2008, this video is not inspiring anyone anymore. It could be inspiring millions right now to stand up and be part of the solution, not the problem, to realize one's own civic opportunity and responsibility, if Organizing for America would simply endorse this video and place it on their home page as a permanent fixture of inspiration.

Do not think I do this for any fame. I don't even want credit for this film. This project was entirely pro-bono and continues to be so. I simply want to help before my time on this Earth is over.

If you want to see more of what I do with film to try to help, please visit my "political activist" site (e.g. where i try to make a difference) My "MBMPRO" YouTube Channel

and the YouTube channel for My Production Company, MBM Productions International

Sincerely,

Steve Sulkin - Director & Activist...simply trying to make a difference

CEO, MBM PRODUCTIONS INT'L

ALL FOOTAGE IN THIS VIDEO WAS EITHER CREATED BY MYSELF AND MY PRODUCTION COMPANY, MBM, OR, AS IN THE CASE OF THE BARACK OBAMA FOOTAGE, WAS LICENSED THROUGH A STOCK HOUSE AND I HAVE FULL RIGHTS TO USE IT IN PERPETUITY.

United States allocated $ 1 billion to create a vaccine against influenza A/H1N1

Zzz12 from Holtsville, NY — Fri, 22 May 2009 19:06:46 EDT

The U.S. government has allocated $ 1 billion in assistance to companies that need to develop a vaccine against a new type of influenza A/H1N1.

On this today, May 22, announced the head of the Ministry of Health of the U.S. Kathleen Sebelius. "The actions we take today will help us prepare for a situation in which the vaccine may be necessary", - said Sebelius.

Note the current pig flu virus in the United States are infected with more than 5 thousand people. Ten people have died from the disease. Nevertheless, experts contend that the epidemic has not had to say.

All the world's 11 thousand WHO has confirmed 168 human cases of influenza A/H1N1 in 43 countries.

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the impossible made

LeTha — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 01:47:39 EST

we are history

yesterday i beared witness

to something i'd never thought i'd see

here, in this place

and we made it happen

the song...

there is

n o t h i n g

we can't do.

believe, trust, pray,

keep going

and you can change

yOUR world.

Now I am Inspired

Craig from Colorado Springs, CO — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 05:18:39 EST

I must confess right from the beginning that I did not vote for Barack Obama.

However, despite the fact that I did not vote for him, I would like to convey my feelings concerning Obama.

1) He is my president now and I fully support him and I am at his behest. President Obama is a tabula rasa waiting to be written on.

2) I am happy to see G.W. leave. I am an independant conservative, but, Bush looks tired, worn down and ashamed of his presidency.

3) It will be great to have a president in office who can speak. Thank God, finally, a president who can move an audience and pronounce words.

4) President Obama, you have truly inspired me. The odds were against you, but you never quit. Your story is amazing, and I will tell my children one of how you overcame the odds and the naysayers.

Thank you President Obama for inspiring me, and giving this nation collective hope once again.

Grace and Peace,

C.M. Smith

INSPIRED time to UNITE not FIGHT its not ME its WE, be free

A.D.D. Poet — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 19:38:13 EST

PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release

Contact: Ron Sorenson/Kathy Kafka PHONE 954 632-8495

E-MAIL: sorensonbuilders@mac.com and kathy1000kai@yahoo.com

SOUTH FLORIDA’S “A.D.D. POET” HEADS TO INAUGURATION WITH AN OBAMA TRIBUTE

Former Home Builder Turned Poet Will Be At The Inauguration With A Truck-load of His Poetry Honoring Barack Obama

Ron Sorenson has been diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (A.D.D.)—he says his condition is at the core of his talent

Miami- The week of January 20th millions will arrive in Washington DC to witness Barack Obama become the 44th President of the United States. In the crowd will be South Florida poet, Ron Sorenson. The former homebuilder has been diagnosed with A.D.D (Attention Deficit Disorder). Recently he began a diet and exercise program to manage his ADD. The side effect of this non-prescription treatment of ADD has been a creative explosion. Ron now creates poetry that has received recognition and applause from academic institutions such as Rutgers University, Stanford University, Jonn Fee Okford University, San Francisco Art Institute Suzanne Olemsted Addmissions,The Bereavement Society and his celebrity fans include Jonny Depp, Red Hot Chlie Peppers Jewel, Elle, Coda Ray, Evanescence, Soul Bomb, Siva Noir, Oliver Stone, Denzel Washington, Ian Lewis Inner Circle Band, John Sally NBA, Charles Johnson Baseball Great, Eddie Johnes Basketball Great, Larry Hendricks Hendricks Racing, Jeb Corbis Daredevil, Evil Knevil, Anjelo Dunde, Muhamad Ali, Mark Clayton, John Tesh Yoko, House of Zaccardi Artist, many more and names of some that would not or frienship open and not private anymore.

This past year Ron has become caught up in the Obama campaign and to honor his presidency, Ron created a poem titled Persistence True Dream. Ron teamed with Coral Springs artist, Tony Hall—in an almost impossible way they met and the two have created a framed limited edition and a poster to mark the historic event.

Ronald Sorenson was born a twin on September 26, 1957 on an Army base in Columbia, South Carolina. His twin brother Donald passed away at three months old. Ron found out when he came across a photo of two babies in a crib. His beloved grandmother told him when he was ten. Ron always believed his brother was his guardian angel, and has had a difficult job watching over him. With his high energy level, risk taking, and other traits he possessed, Ron felt different from everyone else. He describes the inside of his brain as Jimmy Hendrix playing the Star Spangled Banner at Woodstock in his head 24/7. On June 4, 2005, Ron met Kathy Kafka—both are divorced with children. On there first date during the evening conversation, Kathy described Ron as gifted and having A.D.D. Ron had no idea what Attention Deficit Disorder was. The journey began, he had to find out what it was, during the week he was tested and diagnosed with A.D.D. Finally he had a description of why he felt different. Kathy saw a person in Ron that he never noticed. He was intelligent, creative, enthusiastic, and sensitive. Now aware of his gift of A.D.D., and the love and understanding from Kathy, his life is only getting better. Ron has been a building contractor, building beautiful homes for over 25 years. Because of his boredom and the poor economy, Ron has grown significantly tired of the construction business. Now aware of his gift, and Kathy’s love and understanding, life is only getting better. With Kathy’s knowledge of health and natural herbs, she has transformed Ron’s poor health habits. Ron is now eating healthier, consuming herbal blends and teas, resulting in positive energy. This has brought out his inventiveness, and creativity, and he is now writing beautiful philosophical poems, which he never thought he could do. Ron began writing poetry for Kathy. She noticed his talent and with the positive reinforcement he began spreading his poetry to others. Ron is now referred to as the “A.D.D. Poet.” Poetry is a way to go deep inside and express him self. Life is only getting better for Ron who has been living in Fort Lauderdale, Florida most of his life. He is unleashing the artist that resides in his heart and brain for all to enjoy.

Tony Hall was born on December 26, 1950 in Kingston Jamaica. His family moved to Mt. Vernon, NY in 1966. Attending Parsons School of Design, he majored in Graphic Design. After being drafted in the Army in 1971 and his interest in art, Tony started to paint in the evenings as a hobby. He would paint for his friends. After the release from the Army in 1978, a person noticing his talent, offered to sell his works. He gave this man several of his painting, which he never saw again. Discouraged by what happened, Tony stopped painting for three years. Then in 1981, a man commissioned a painting, but after the work was completed, the man was killed. Discouraged again, Tony stopped painting for several years. He began another hobby, base guitar, starting his own group called Mystique. Then in 2000, a co-worker requested a pencil drawing of his two children that both passed away after their birth one year apart. He asked Tony to draw the one child without the deformities he was born with. The look on his co-workers face when he gave him the drawing of his two children, put both of them in tears. Inspired to do art again, Tony created many pieces in just the last year and a half, but has not been able to sell any of his work. Tony and his wife are in jeopardy of losing there home because of the poor economy. Tony works for a printer who reduced his hours and his wife is in real estate sales. Tony and his family live in Coral Spring, Florida. Ron says along with Tony nothing can go wrong and every wrong turn ends up being the right way, He believes if you can dream it you can do it and he is living proof. Anything is possible no matter the economy your situation its what you belive and choose for your journey.

YES WE CAN (CHANGE OUR DESTINY) PROJECT - NEW VIDEO!

Steve Sulkin — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 02:00:16 EST

There have been many "Yes We Can" songs and videos out there and most have not risen to the quality of will.i.am

But this NEW VIDEO, see link below to "Yes We Can (Change our Destiny)", has that same potential to inspire millions to act, to be involved, to re-engage.

Read on and help this video get to the inaugural to be played via videotape or live. I want no fame or fortune. I just want to make a difference and I know this song and video can. You'll see when you watch it.

The “Yes We Can (Change our Destiny) Project” was created to help ensure that the collective energy of 10’s of millions of people who were inspired by President Elect Barack Obama will be re-kindled on inauguration day to even greater heights (because our world needs us now more then ever).

Watch the Video and help Change Our Destiny. Be inspired.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IwspAagg8uw&feature=channel_page

Inspire millions more by passing this video on. Make it go viral. Help it be played at the inaugural.

This video is the output of a singularly special experience created on a single day in Chicago by a group of people who are as talented as they are inspired.

Inspiration is the most powerful force in the world. You can help re-ignite it. We’ve seen that simple actions multiplied by millions can create real change. Your one simple action of sending this video to everyone you know, and they in turn sending it to everyone they know, will once again, inspire millions.

As President Elect Obama said on November 4th at Grant Park, we have an opportunity to put our hands “on the arc of history and bend it once more toward the hope for a better day.”

Join the movement. Send the video to everyone you know and ask them to do the same.

Yes We Can.

Change our Destiny.

---

The Yes We Can Change Our Destiny song and video was written, produced, directed and performed by Steven Miles Sulkin and with nearly 40 of Chicago’s and the nation’s top musicians, filmmakers and engineers. It was recorded (interestingly, though accidentally) on Pearl Harbor Day, December 7th, 2008 at The Chicago Recording Company and written on November 2nd, 2008. It is our hope (but a hope that can only be possible with your help) that this song will be played live or via video at the inaugural, so as to re-inspire 10’s of millions that “Yes We Can” wasn’t about winning an election, it was about winning back our world and shaping a new destiny.

(note: The President Elect Barack Obama footage from Grant Park is legally and fully licensed from a stock footage source).

Peace,

Steven Miles Sulkin

ALTERNATIVE ENERGY

WEBMASTER — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 02:26:14 EST

The Pickens Plan: For those who would like to become an active participant in a solution for our nations energy needs I urge you to join with T.Boone Pickens in his quest for a cleaner planet through alternative energy.

Also see Green Wave Energy: Green Wave was founded by Mark Holmes and was formulated for viable alternative energy solutions. Green Wave Energy is promoting state-of-the-art energy-saving products and services throughout the country.

Green Wave Energy understands alternative energy technology will become “main stream” when

individuals and organizations understand that alternative energy technology exists and
when people see the economic benefits of using alternative energy technologies

Call 949.645.1701 for information on how Green Wave Energy can help you save the planet.

Alternative Energy
Source: David Apperson

url: http://veterans.barackobama.com/page/community/tag/alternative-energy

Elegant nature: Why election bliss went global

Angel Garet — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 17:37:20 EST

No matter for whom or if you voted, a new rung in the ladder of human evolution is beneath your feet. For Americans who have lived long enough, election night 2008 may have produced the first palpable change felt in forty years. The monumental sense of loss that seemed to last forever after the passing of Dr. Martin Luther King has suddenly waned, allowing us to reflect on how we changed during a time when changes were too insignificant to feel or we were too numb to feel them.

In the interim, and not by coincidence, science has observed in nature a self-correcting mechanism responsible for the evolution of all that we know. Breakthroughs in cell biology and fractal geometry and mathematics have revealed a universal pattern of branching toward balance and perfection in a nonlinear yet persistent manner. It is present in galaxies as well as the systems of every living thing, and it tells us we are born stewards of the planet, wired to be receptors and processors of nature’s input.

Poverty: Human Compassion Attending to Hunger

Rebekah — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 06:29:32 EST

How is our human compassion attending to hunger in the world?

Weeks ago, while walking on my usual old path, I looked up at the waxing Gibbous moon, stunned by its quiet lingering in an indigo sky, mixing in clouds with salmon colors after sunset. I have imagined this old path I use to walk my dog to be an old Roman path in ages past. Many have walked upon this small path of mine. It is a path born from the human ages, like the moon is born from ages past. It has a history. The hunger of poverty also has a history and she gazes at me, like the gibbous moon, waxing in need. Cars passed by, but all that related to me was the path, my old dog beside me, my thoughts and the moon.

Our earth is abundant and yet people are dying of starvation. Such extreme poverty is all too often due to selfish actions or inaction of mankind, greed and jealousy, which, if unchecked, become negative forces. Poverty can be based upon a condition of deprivation as well as fear. Extreme poverty is also when the necessities to sustain life are not available or provided. Humans require food and water, shelter from harsh elements and clothing for protection. These are only basic and common needs. Furthermore, poverty mirrors a lack of generosity in mankind, based on prejudice or an absence of understanding that we are all connected on earth. In the same way, the “survival of the fittest” attitude in self-centered part of the human ego- is partly responsible for the lack of caring for others’ suffering on earth.

Poverty on earth can be transformed into well being, if those in need are also empowered to create for themselves. This requires human giving, as well as perspective. It requires the gathering of nations to create hope and well being for all -not just a limited group of individuals or a single nation. It is not just when a person is alone- or in a collective- in a state of poverty, but it is also the reflection of how individuals and nations lead impoverished lives, lacking vision to reach out with constructive care to help end poverty to enable change and growth worldwide. To empower others, one must be empowered- with a perspective to empower, realizing that we are all connected on earth.

There are many practical methods and ways to help implement change, e.g. through micro loans and direct assistance at a level that is too small for commercial banks or major donor organizations such as the United Nations or the World Bank. Small loans and grants of often only a few hundred dollars or euros can be used by individuals to invest in sewing machines, drills, saws and other basic machines and agricultural tools to start their own small self-sustaining enterprises. Similarly, inexpensive computers, musical instruments, and school utensils are needed in local communities. Such basic tools could be provided to those who can use them for a livelihood. More schools can be built, teaching mothers and fathers, teaching children, teaching the arts, core therapies, sports, eco-friendly technology, and recycling (to name a few ideas). Wind power, water power and solar power can be used more widely. In many countries, more hospitals, beds, ambulances and basic tools and medicines are also needed. Wells need to be drilled, toilets, basic plumbing and buildings. More than anything, vision and hope are needed in a world where falling stock markets will most ultimately hurt those who already suffer in extreme poverty.

We look up when the full moon fills the night sky. Today the gibbous wanes geocentric. Mankind’s nightmare is a lack of vision and a fear that there is not enough on earth to share. Yet, the opposite is true. There is enough bounty on earth to feed the world. People have grown in individuality and lead deeply solitary lives often disconnected even from their own family. This breeds a further lack of faith in the fact that mankind is a human family at large.

Rebekah Alsterberg

HOw to improve the people around you!

Joshua from Ogdensburg, WI — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 17:09:40 EST

The truth is that when GM finnally announced the Chevy Volt.. the people in the oil and gas indutry couldn't see past thier shorterm profits. So they jacked up the price of oil. Which in turn has effectivly weakend our economy almost to the point of collapse.

We need to expose the greedy, corrupt people that have pulled this shennanigans on thier own brothers and sisters. Is the blame in the Middle East? or since we get most of our oil from Canada and South America. Is the blame squarely on the Fascist Corporations that have been killing our profits for years? It really does not matter who's fault it is. What does matter is that we find a solution ASAP!We can use our our tecnology headstart to bring to the world the wonderful gift that will become the Chevy Volt! We have to save GM, they will save us! This is exactly what is meant by {Treat others as you would be treated.} which sadly has been misinterpreted as treat others as they treat you! THIS IS WRONG We have to help people overcome these afflicting emotions that are clearly keeping us as human beings divided. It is sad that most people in the United States are extremely condesending. Our leadership has created this problem. With the negative and damaging campaign tactics shown in the past. But we can solve it by acknowlegeing and treasuring the good that is happening all around us. We only need to help people to know where to look...

I enjoy reading articles with bad grammar because it makes me think about what I am reading more. Thus helping me remember what I have read! We can all cultivate this behavior throughout our society. We have to lean out of our comfort zones too make this world a place that our children and grand children will be able to exist in. Our minds can be shaped by ourselves to embrace change and love every human being on this planet... If we don't do it now it is going to too late..

"Team Obama show" at a regularly scheduled time

Inspired — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 08:56:47 EST

I'd like to see a TV or radio program scheduled regularly during prime time

Entertaining enough to attract segments of population who ordinarily wouldn't keep up with political news and factual and informative enough for the segment of population who defininitely do. A show for all people.......

One that outlines each of Obama's Teams, their purposes, plans, processes, progress, and successes. One that inspired and lets the American public know what they need to do to be involved and do their part. One that creates enthusiasm for Americans and other nations as well.

and One that creates unity of humanity, peace, and hope.

What an amazing journey!

Maria Racho — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 17:11:14 EST

What an amazing journey this has been, and it has really just started. People never interested in politics, including myself, inspired and engaged to believe in change, to believe in our country. I found myself going door to door in Indiana with my son, as well as twittering, facebooking, texting for Obama. I was having passionate discussions with my family and friends, when in the past we were almost apathetic to the works of our government. How could we make a difference we thought? And now, we felt like we really could effect change. I am proud and believe that this is MY United States of America and still desire to do more for my leader and my country.

I may not be American but I too feel I have to comment!

Brassman — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 19:15:02 EST

Being from the United Kingdom I am not able to vote obviously, but I do hope that through this site, concerned citizens like myself from around the world can have a voice in the country that affects us all!

I for one have been greatly concerned about world developments. I wonder what sort of a world, my 6 year old daughter of dual inheritance will grow up in.

I have dire concerns about Afghanistan, Iraq and now a news item today that Russia is escalating towards a second Cold War!

Let alone the looming recession, the ecological world wide disaster that is happening around us.

I have been dismayed at the lack of regard Mr Bush seems to have for the rest of us. I have been angered by the International damage that self interest from the incumbent administration has wrought.

I am inspired and moved to write, firstly by the skill, style, confidence and sincerity that Mr Obama delivers. Secondly, I am moved by the passion he appears to portray for all human beings! I am moved because at last I feel the USA has a worthy leader and I feel compelled to say that if there is anything I can do to assist and support in my small way from the UK I would gladly do so.

You Mr Obama, are a great Orator. You have commanded our attention and you do have us listening! Make use of this! Show us the way! Tell us what you need! Most of all make good on your word as I believe you will!

Today is the most historic of days!

I suppose I was too young to truly appreciate Mr Kennedy & Mr King, although I do remember the distress of thier passing. They are true legends that I feel are reflected today, in Mr Obama.

I feel privileged to have experienced this day. I have hope for my family - and our Country across the water. Thank you for today and all the hard and exhausting work you and your family have done over the last 18 months. Thank you for your inspiration and God Bless you and yours!

A Letter from Bryan Long

Bryan Long — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 10:48:17 EST

Nov 5th, 2008

Hello family and friends,

I have to admit that it took last night's historic event to make me realize the true power of change as well as the presence of that power in America. You see, while I have always felt privileged to be an American, today I can honestly say that for the first time since America came together in the wake of the horrible 9/11 attacks, I am proud to be American.

I began to understand the change that materialized yesterday when I spoke with my 78 year-old grandmother, just minutes after she voted. Both her and my grandfather have been staunch republicans for most of their lives, and given that fact I wasn't the least bit surprised to hear that my grandfather voted for John McCain. But when I looked over to my grandmother I noticed that she had quietly scuttled out of the room, avoiding confrontation. It wasn't until later that she approached me, whispering, "Bryan, I had to lie to Grandpa. I told him that I voted for McCain when I really voted for Obama... I had to do what I thought was right." Last night, Americans performed their civic duties, acting on what they thought was right. The outcome of that action finally showed me that Americans are willing to work towards positive change.

While I don't believe that Obama has all the answers to America's problems or that he will be able to bring about all the change we need, I am confident that America will finally be led down the right track. While the change that is the focus of political campaigns is important: putting the economy back together, ending the war in Iraq responsibly, and fixing our abysmal education and health care systems, other underlying change needs to occur if we are ever going to truly progress as a nation. The change that I am talking about is in the way we live our lives.

I am fortunate enough to have spent half of the past seven years living outside of America, learning from cultures different than our own. One of the things I have learned is that Americans are great at shifting the blame onto others. We love to stuff our faces with super sized value meals while criticizing a fast-food-culture. We are experts at hiding behind our gated communities while pretending the illegal immigrant workforce that propels our economy doesn't exist. We demand higher production, more efficiency, and lower prices even if it means shipping jobs overseas. We allow ourselves to be overcome by rampant consumerism and cut-throat capitalism. The result of these actions has been the unnecessary spreading of fear, expanding exponentially like some recursive virus throughout the American psyche.

Obama has shown us the effectiveness of grass-roots action, of community based change. Let's not allow the lessons we learned during his campaign to fall on deaf ears. Let's stop blaming others and start leading by example. Let's not demand change from government without being willing to change our own actions! While I am currently trying to plan the next steps of my life, I have decided to concentrate my future endeavors here in America. Although I was recently diagnosed with Reiter's arthritis, I am optimistic that whatever changes I make in my lifestyle will now be enveloped in hope; in the hope I saw take form last night in Grant Park as a quarter million people came together to support change.

If we stop letting fear dictate our decision making process, begin acting as global citizens, and treat others with simple compassion, brighter days will be ahead. When we begin to achieve this, we will see the change that was simply an idea in the previous days, months, and years come to fruition at last.

I hope this letter finds everyone well, and regardless of the candidate you supported on Election Day, you are now ready to work together to create positive change.

-Bryan

What it Means! Living Monumental Lives: Hope, Inspiration and Community!

Ricky Fico — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 04:57:37 EST

Living a Monumental Life Guarantees Monumental Rewards! Living Monumentally Enriches The World And An Enriched World Guarantees Us All The Greatest Rewards.

As a few of you who may know me well enough, perhaps you'd understand what I am trying to accomplish... Because of the bounty of circumstances in my life (a few that may be deemed inexplicable) I have sought answers. Not only to my mere existence but answers to the chain of events that led me to where I am today....

For those who had read some of my memoirs, such as The Bookcase you'd perhaps understand the reasons why I am more of an inspirational writer than anything else.

You see, my life was wrought with uncertainties, but for the longest time, I didn't understand the reasons why. But after looking clearly at my life and the myriad of events that defy convention or coincidence I have come to the conclusion as to why I am here.

No, I am not God, I am not Jesus.... What I am, though, is perhaps what I've always been --- a messenger! And to fulfill my role as messenger I had to waddle my way through one heck of an obstacle course. I know now the reasons why though -- to make me stronger, to provide me with a greater understanding, to provide me more compassion, to provide me the many tools that would help me fulfill my duties. Today's world is much more complex than it was then!

And let me clarify a point. For the longest time I was numbed to my existence by alcohol etc. and it really wasn't until September 11, 1992 that I was awakened although I had been presented many signs previously and I thought then merely coincidence or simple serendipity, ah, but we all have those special moments, don't we?

I know there are messengers on this planet, though a few of you may disagree, that is OK. Before the "soul-alerting chain of events" in my life and before I was provided greater awareness and greater understanding I, too, was skeptical. Before the many serendipitous encounters and parallel events in my life with those on the greater world stage I, too, wasn't sure of my purpose here.

We are on the threshold of what I deem "The Golden Renaissance" a time of rebirth, a time for us to utilize our God-given gifts, creativity and know-how to beautify this world, our world, our children's world. This requires dedication, hard work and belief in the common good. I, again, cannot stress enough the importance of community -- the joining of hands, hearts, souls to help maintain balance....

The idea of this very network was provided to me in a dream - a dream so vivid, so real that I soon realized that it wasn't a dream after all. This is reality, you are my reality, I am your reality and together we represent a great and monumental reality -- one that will bear witness to positive transformation and change.

Living a monumental life doesn't mean possession of financial fortune or living in the spotlight of public adoration and fame, what I think it means is that you act in accordance with your own identity while acting in ways that are positive and conducive to happiness, serenity and harmony. What I think it means is that you generate positive energies and in turn, your positive energies have a positive effect on others. Linkin' Monuments-- a positive chain of energy! Share your positivity with others. It is contagious.

Although I dealt with a lot of negative forces in my life and been burdened with many, many disappointments and met many dead-ends, I still retained a sense of optimism and a sense of purpose. Overcoming many challenges provides strength, provokes an amazing sense of accomplishment and being.

One of my favorite quotes that I penned most recently states: "You really shouldn't wonder so much what your life might have been but put into action what you want your life to become." Ah yes, for us who had rocky origins and detoured lives we mustn't look at that aspect in a negative light but instead, place it in a positive light and let it shine on us brightly today. Let's not begin our lives with yesterday: let us begin our lives with today.

Since I had been provided many, many signs as to what role I have on this planet it is incumbent on me to deliver to you what I've been given and it is my greatest hope that you'd do the same. Each one of us has so much to offer. I've aways known this but during the last 16 years, since September 11, 1992 it has been made so much clearer to me...

I am inspired by you as I hope, at times, you are inspired by me!

More On Inspiration:

Each one of us is inspired by forces beyond ourselves; each one of us finds inspiration through acts of others, through nature, through art, music - the list goes on. Inspiration is a catalyst of growth, success, happiness and without it, we would be nothing but mere entities, devoid of soul, devoid of substance...
*****

It is my philosophy that if we strive to live "monumental lives" we are, in essence, looking at those who had made such a positive impact in this world as exemplars, as inspirations.

Those such as Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., Abraham Lincoln, Mother Theresa not only lived monumental lives but they, too, believed that each one of us could live monumentally as well. And why is that? Firstly, because they believed in equality. They believed in the human spirit. They believed in the "good of humankind." They not only believed in themselves but they believed in their brothers and sisters. If they didn't believe that each one of us was capable of exacting change then their efforts would've been futile and they'd turn their focus toward a lesser horizon.

To live a monumental life, all one has to do is look toward the greater horizon and use his or her God-given gifts to reach that horizon. And in doing so, perhaps inspire others to do the same.

My simple philosophy: "A foundation is but the base and it is the collection of building blocks that creates what many should strive to ascend."

Just like Martin Luther King Jr., Mother Theresa, Abraham Lincoln, Gandhi and countless others, each one of us had been provided the foundation. It is up to us to build upon the foundation. And in doing so, maybe, just maybe, we offer hope to others as well. That is living a monumental life!

"The life you lead is the same one that you must follow."
Ricky J. Fico

a little idealism

Craig from Cambridge, MA — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 21:06:44 EST

I thought that in the wake of hope's triumph I would flow with inspirational words about the possibility for unity and clarity and dignity and humility. About the building of bridges between all of the races and creeds, and from one generation to the next. About the responsibility to respect. Our environment. Our fellow humans. Our friends. Our enemies. Ourselves. About our duty to seek the evil within and strive to overcome it so that we do not foster evil in those who are touched by our small influence. About the powers of patience, tolerance and acceptance to overcome ideological divisions, soften hearts hardened by destitution and demagoguery, and allow us to join together to face our common fears. I could talk about idealism. Global and personal. About the need for those who would fight for universal freedom and human rights and those who would fight for just a little more humility and peace in their own minds. About a future in which trees are sacred and fossil fuels are remembered as a cruel lesson. About harnessing our inspiration to develop technology as a means to prosperity rather than profit. About the big picture in which we are all inextricably linked, whether we like it or not, and about the great grandchildren of the Chinese farmer who will someday be affected by the decisions of the mortgage broker in Iowa. About green infrastructure and accessible healthcare and holistic education and sensible immigration and confident diplomacy and international security and civil rights and human rights and understanding and compassion and respect and hope and the true freedom that arises when all of these come together to allow people to honestly and openly make choices amongst a colorful variety of lifestyles not just between Pepsi and Coke. About love that is expressed through simple kindness and daily sacrifices and compromises, and that is not measured by volume or material gifts or short-term results. About life. About liberty. About happiness. About my hope that Barack Obama will inspire a movement, not just lead a nation, and that his inspiration will provide us the means to take control of our own destiny. A destiny that, in the face of global warming and global terrorism and global economic crises and global food shortages, will certainly be bleak if we cling to individualism and nationalism. And about the flood of emotions I felt this morning when it hit me that a black man with some Islamic and some African and some Christian and some agnostic and some American roots and an Indonesian education and a Harvard degree and an overflowing idealism was actually elected to the American Presidency. Yes we can.

But then I realized that all this has been expressed more eloquently before, and I decided to leave it to those more gifted than I.

http://yeswecan.dipdive.com/#/~/videoplayer/0/169/2207/~/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yqoFwZUp5vc

http://elections.nytimes.com/2008/results/president/speeches/obama-victory-speech.html

Faces of the Youth

Hesham from Staten Island, NY — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 13:37:06 EST

Faces of the Youth

Dear Mr. President, Did you see the faces of the youth?Did you see the faces of the old?Did you see the faces of the poor?Did you see the faces of the fortunate?Did you see the faces of the Black?Did you see the faces of the White?Did you see the faces of the yellow?Did you see the faces of the brown? Did you see how they filled the park?Did you see how they filled the streets?Did you see how they braved the cold?Did you see how their eyes hung on you?Did you see how their eyes cried?Did you see how their spirits flew? Did you see the pain in their hearts?Did you see the joy in their hearts?Did you see the anguish in their eyes?Did you see the hope in their eyes?Did you see how despaired are their souls?Did you see how relieved are their souls?Did you see how they hunger for change?Did you see how they believe in the dream? Did you see the faces of the youth?Did you see the faces of the future?Please Mr. President, don’t let them downPlease Mr. President, don’t betray themPlease Mr. President, don’t neglect themPlease Mr. President, don’t forget about themI beg you, we beg you, don’t let us downThe faces of the youthBecause after all Mr. President, we won’t let you By Hesham El-Meligy Inspired by Obama’s victory speech &the people who were there.

November 4, 2008.

talk for Barack

SheilaJean — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 22:29:01 EST

I haven't done as much on/through my.barackobama.com as I could have, haven't given as much as I should have... my activity has not been a good indicator of my support for Barack Obama. My activity is low, my faith and belief is high.

I have been talking to everyone I know, some I don't know. I felt it wasn't enough. So, I decided to phone for Obama...

...Talk for Barack! At first I was nervous about talking to total strangers, that quickly changed. Many people were not home, only a couple were not receptive... even the one McCain guy was nice, joked, but left no opening to change.

This blog is for the wonderful people that were so nice, happy, to hear from a person calling for Obama. Almost every person I spoke with wanted to talk, not just answer my questions. A few were also talking for Barack, they were thrilled to get a call from another Obama caller. They wanted to discuss what they had been through, thoughts on the election, how things were going.

The stand outs...

A young woman born in India, a new citizen, happy to be voting for her first time, proud to tell me that she was taking someone with her to vote...her husband, also a new citizen, first time voter.

Merri had been on the phone for Obama for two hours today. She was excited that someone called her for Obama/Biden. We had a great conversation.

Margaret... When I called, asked for Margaret, her daughter asked who I was, I said was calling for Obama, she"mom will love to talk to you." Talk we did, for quite a while... when I said I needed to get to my next call, she asked that I call her back... after we win. I don't know if it is normal for mybarackobama.com phone workers... but, I wrote her phone number down, to call her back.

The most inspiring... Annette, an 80 year old woman, so excited about this election, so happy that I "took the time to call her for the Barack Obama campaign." She proudly told me she was voting for Obama. I said great, that I hoped the line wasn't very long, weather was good... she said "it does not matter how long the line is, how long the wait is, no matter what the weather is... I have waited all my life for this, I am voting for Barack Obama." She told me a little about her life, her pride as a black woman, being able to take part in this election.

When I finished my 40 calls to Virginia voters, 25 to Colorado voters... I found myself thinking "I wish I had done more." The calls were interesting, fun, educational, and very inspiring.

I am looking forward to tomorrow and the future. I am also wishing I had done more in the past. I missed a lot of interesting, wonderful people... I wish I had more time to make more calls.

Sheila ;)

Vote for your future

Shea from Tucson, AZ — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 19:16:23 EST

I want to share a story with my generation that has touched my heart. I spent Saturday afternoon at the Democratic Headquarters in Tucson, Arizona volunteering my time to make calls for Barack Obama. I sat next to an 81 year old woman who wanted to share a simple story that reached the core of me, and I hope that her words will have the same effect on my generation. This woman was a dedicated volunteer who told me of the morning before when she decided to stop for doughnuts on her way to go volunteer her time. She explained that the young lady working at the doughnut shop was about my age, and she decided to ask her if she had registered to vote, to which the young lady explained that she would not be voting because she didn't think it mattered. This woman then explained to me that she had not voted for FDR because she had been too young, but she voted in the election after that, and had not missed an election since. If that wasn't inspirational enough she then turned to me and said, "Young lady, I am 81 years old and I am so glad that you are here, because so many young people don't understand. I am not here dedicating my time for me. I am not voting in this election for me. You see the truth is, I may not be here another eight years and the harder truth is that I may not even be here on Tuesday. I'm not doing this for me, it's not mine anymore. I'm doing this for you, and for your generation, because now it is yours." Because I am 19 years old, this is the first presidential election I've had the right to have my voice heard in, but it is my promise to that woman, to myself, and to the generations that get it next, I will never miss an election. It is my privelege, it is my right, it is my duty.

America WILL Change if Barack is Elected

Lorrie — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 01:51:34 EDT

I believe, with all my heart, that America will be on the road to change if Barack Obama is elected President of the United States of America. We, as Americans, will then have the perfect chance to contribute to this cause. The reason I believe this is because Barack said it. He said, as he spoke in Henderson, Nevada yesterday (October 31st), that 5 million jobs will be created after he becomes President. Jobs, in my opinion, are one of the things that makes our Nation great. We absolutely need to be the Nation that invents things and values education.

I have come to see that Barack is a man of his word. He's honest and helps communities become better. From the stories I've seen of him, he has committed his life to helping people have better lives. I started out being a supporter of Hillary Clinton. She's a very smart woman. She, and her husband, think that people come first in our country. They certainly do! Without people, we wouldn't have the wonderful towns and businesses that make this country great. The corporations wouldn't have advocates of their own businesses without American employees. Inventions wouldn't happen so quickly without American creativity. The military wouldn't be so quick to respond without American patriotism. Barack knows, from what I've heard, that people are very important when it comes to making this country great.

But soon, I realized that Barack had the attention of the younger generation by huge amounts! And that is when I paid more attention. A lightbulb went on over my head! I realized I was still thinking and remembering the 1990's! I then realized we needed to be in the 21st century, and our younger generation seemed to know that better than me! Senator Obama showed me the way as he organized his way to the top of the Democratic Campaign! He called me personally one day to tell me so, but at the time I didn't know who he was! I said I was a Hillary supporter and that was how it was! He said, at the end of our conversation, "Well, Mrs. Morrison, remember, you'll have to think of who the RIGHT candidate is before you vote"! That sentence was in my mind for months later! I didn't quite understand what he meant by "the RIGHT candidate". I always prided myself on thinking I knew who the right person for President could be.

Senator Obama's vision paves a path forward that will be transitional. We need to improve our country with more jobs, improve infrastructure, and improve education, to become more competitive. I was told recently by my son, who is taking classes at a community college to get a Cisco Certification in Silicon Valley, that Cisco is slowing down on hiring because they are waiting to see who is going to be elected for President! Now I would say that maybe that is smart of them to do that. But, on the other hand, my husband, http://www.chuckmorrison.com, has noticed a significant slowing down in the hiring process this September and October. He's a Sr. Project Manager that normally can be hired within a months time, but now he is seeing this slowdown in Silicon Valley. It appears that our America is so concerned about what is happening within this current administration, the corporations don't want to move forward until after the election. This is obvious if you are watching the stock market and the financial crisis that has gripped the country! Senator Obama wants to change the deceptive eight year behaviour of this administration by making more jobs open to the public. What good does it do for a country that can't move forward because they are in a stale-mate!

I have made two pictures for the art community I contribute too. One picture shows that we need a new path to progress in America. This is where you can see it: http://www.artistrising.com/products/344468/path-to-progress.htm We need a new path where everyone is involved in order to move our country forward. The other picture was made as a digital painting from two pictures I photographed from my own televison set! http://www.artistrising.com/products/344371/we-the-people.htm This picture is about working together to promote change and progress in America and shows the last scenes at the Democratic Convention at the stadium, as a digital painting. I hope you enjoy looking at them. So far, they seem to be staying on the front page of the "People" section at http://www.artistrising.com. It appears people are looking at them. I know people want hope and change for our country.

I would like to stress the importance of the idea of creating new jobs in America. The Nation has moved in a downward curve for eight years. We can't stand much more. We need a President with inspiration and hope to move our country forward. We the People can do it with this kind of inspired leadership. We can move down a New Path to Progress if Barack Obama is elected!

Dialing For Destiny

G. Marie from Chicago, IL — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 00:08:19 EDT

Tonight I completed my first batch of Neighbor to Neighbor phone calls, 25 in all. I will call another 50 tomorrow. I chose Colorado because of the 2-hr time difference and because it is a key battleground state in this election. I also have some affinity for Coloradoans: I used to camp near Colorado Springs as a teen and near Fort Collins as an adult. I have spent hours in the Denver airport waiting for the weather to clear so I could get back to Chicago. That, and that one of my BFF's lives in Denver, makes me an "almost Coloradoan." I can relate.

So, how was it? Not bad. Mostly I left messages telling people where to find their polling place and the hours of operation. The hard part was leaving my reasons for voting for the Obama Campaign for Change in a voicemail soundbite. Should I share the political reasons, the philosophical reasons, or the common sense reasons? Could I get them all in?

Not sure, I plugged away at it anyway, leaving messages that were a little herky-jerky on the "how come" side but clearly leaving people with a call to action, to vote as if their life and life as we once knew it depended upon it. Because I believe it does.

This political apparatus of ours has become more than moribund. I remember being inspired by Jack and Bobby Kennedy, by the idea of a Peace Corps where even I could be an ambassador and give of my talents and abilities. I was inspired by the young men and women who went into the South by the busloads to teach in Freedom Schools so young black children could learn to read and write. And I was inspired by the courage of those who were undaunted in the face of billy clubs and waterhoses and death, and by the leadership--albeit reluctant for some-- of lawmakers who passed the Civil Rights and Voting Rights Acts.

No doubt about it, there have been other times when my heart stirred at the promise of what this country could be as a force for good. I could go on with a long litany but what would be the purpose of that? The point is that somewhere along the way I became resigned and cynical about what's possible for that America, probably right about the time that Jimmy Carter was defeated.

I wasn't inspired by Bill Clinton, but I was hopeful and intrigued. I admired his ability to make complex things understandable for the simplest of us. He was charming and even his enemies loved him. What could have been an extraordinary presidency turned into tabloid fodder. Deeds perhaps forgiven, but never forgotten.

I was an early supporter of Hillary Clinton even though I wasn't sure she could win "the big one". Still, I hung in there because I thought she'd earned the right to have her shot at history. And, sisterhood is powerful. Still, something was missing; and even though my friends and family were early Barach Obama supporters, I held out. I was burned out on hope and change, and change for the sake of change wouldn't make me want to leave from my armchair in the stands. Transformation might.

Somewhere along the way, I allowed myself to venture into that rarified air called hope. Maybe it was the debates, where the Senator went from the off-the-rack suits and perriennial blue and white striped tie he always seemed to wear to those infamous $1500 2-button suits and beautiful ties that made him look as elegant as he is eloquent. The more "presidential" he became, the more hopeful and inspired I became. Inspire: to breathe life into me, you, us, our political system. Now that's transformative, and change I can believe in. I'm prepared to go to work to see that it happens.

And that's what I'll be leaving in my next voicemail soundbite messages.

PRO, not against.

Erika from Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:06:02 EDT

My friend Jacks emailed me this. I loved it! Pass on the good vibes!

The year is 2016. We glance at the tv one morning and see Barack Obama having another of his many press conferences. He has now been in office for almost 8 years.

It hasn't been perfect, but things are way better than when he took office in January of 2009. You notice that his hair has whitened and he still has that winning smile and that take charge/positive energy that he had when he was campaigning way back in 2008.

You remember back to how concerned you were about whether or not he would win in 2008 and you feel deeply contented that he has been safely in office for such a long time.

He and Congress have done much to address global warming, health care, development of alternative energy sources and a variety of other important matters to the country and the planet. You feel deep gratitude for the past eight years and how things have unfolded.

See it...

Feel it...

Breathe it....

Pass it on.

Let’s stop focusing on McCain and Palin, and start concentrating on Obama-Biden. Let’s stop driving ourselves crazy with all of the upsetting details about them and start remembering all the reasons we want Obama.

Take 30 seconds right now. Close your eyes and imagine exactly what our country will feel like with Obama as president.

Imagine how good it will feel.

Imagine whatever it is about him that you desire.

Imagine the diplomacy.

Imagine the peace.

Imagine the wind mills and the clean cars.

Imagine the citizen groups.

Imagine the earth being healed and revitalized.

Imagine being very proud of your country and its leader.

Imagine whatever it is that draws you to support Obama.

We can shift and change the vibration of this country with positive visions just like this. It's only 30 seconds!

Greek Politics

Ari V — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 17:30:28 EDT

Two weeks ago the ABC Family show Greek made some very important points to keep in mind concerning politics and polticians and reminded me again why I support Obama. For those who don't know Greek is show about life in a greek sorority and fraternity. In the episode the main character (Casey Cartwright) is forced to re-run for president of her sorority house (after being elected president after a scandal involving the former president) aganist the old house president (who is also her mentor). In the show the girls run negative campaigns aganist each other by spreading rumors about each other and trying to bribe the girls' votes. Neither girl ends up winning the election, the winner is a write-in who didn't even want to be president. Anyway, later on Casey asks one of the girls in the house why she didn't win because she "had some great ideas for the house." The girl (Rebecca) calmly explains (and I'm paraphrasing here) that "we didn't hear any of those ideas. We only heard negativity. the girls are tired of the fighting." This remark made me think about the Obama and McCain campaigns. You can tell a lot about a candidate by how they run their campaign. Obama has run his campaign drama-free, calmy and postively. Never raisng questions about McCain's character, only responding to McCain's attacks. Obama talks about his ideas and plans for America to better and help our country. We hear these ideas. Americans are tired of politicians engaging in partisian bickering and lying to us. Obama represents a change to all that. Another quote from the show's character Rebecca is "great polticians aren't just better than the alternative. Great politicans inspire." Obama is not only better than the alternative, but he inspires. We've seen this clearly at rallies in Oregon, St. Louis, Chicago, and all over the U.S. In Europe, Africa, and all over the world people feel hopful. They wear Obama gear, have Obama signs and people who don't live in America express their wish that they could vote in this one election, for Obama. With only 10 days to go it's time to make those final trips, one last phone call, knock on one more door, write that one last email or letter to an undecided (or McCain supporting) relative. Like the title of the song "How FAr We've Come" by Matchbox Twenty (a song I highly recommend people listen to) "let's see how far we've come." Yes We Can!

Oct 29th Ad

Jax — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:21:43 EDT

God I hope Obama doesn't blow his load on Oct 29th with this 30 minute TV ad.

I've seen some really impressive speeches by him. In fact that's the mark that really sold me.
His ability to speak, speak well, and influence with ideals not useless, hopeless rhetoric.

I'm afraid that it's going to be some prefab video montage of the campaign and himself (and Joe of course).

And not an Influential Inspiring Moving and Motivating speech which is key at not only swaying the hearts of those that need moving. But keeping the hearts that have already learned to love, keep loving.

Voters of base, independent and undecided need that final push to the voting booth, with the vigor of change that we so desperately desire.

Motivating a Movement: Capitalism, Artists and DIY Speak Up for Obama

Lane — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 14:51:14 EDT

The previous post was about the cohesiveness of the branding message on the Obama camp. This has allowed for the message to be easily picked up and used by others - whether to support Obama or themselves. It shows pretty clearly that Change sells.

The Capitalism of Hope

Support from large and small business has been amazing. Everyone wants to be a part of the movement that will change the course of our country's leadership - whether through belief in that movement or just wanting to say that they were a part of the historic event.

Take UncleBrutha, for example. Obama likes hot sauce (who doesn't?) and so Uncle Brutha decided to make The Audacity of Hot Sauce to raise money and support for Obama. Hot Sauce? Why not?

Or how about Ojamas? The Obama pajamas that help you sleep easier. (ok, cheesy line, but it was too easy to avoid.)

Numerous other sites exist too - artists, cafepress, and more. Some are donating the funds to the Obama campaign, but others are just capitalizing off the fervor for a new voice.

Obama's First Day
Texas Artist making jewelry and art for Obama (and donating proceeds.)
BarackObama Gear
Custom Obama Shoes here, here, here, and here.
Links to Obama Gear
Super Obama gear
Barack Obama Jewelry takes the logo and makes it even MORE wearable.
One of my favorite T-Shirts

This might be proof that Obama isn't going to make us all socialists - his cohesive campaign branding incites hyper-capitalism in the people, and propels new entrepreneurs to get their hand in the action. Obama's campaign alone might stabilize the government.

Artistic Expression

I showcased some artistic support for Obama in my last post. However, the lengths to which artists are rallying their skills for Obama is expansive. Some of these are being picked up by the Barack Obama website and raising money, while others are raising awareness or giving quality design to people willing to share the art with others.

First, how about Design for Obama? Revisiting the era of propaganda posters, designers have put forth their efforts to do what they can to support the movement. From their site:

Design/ers for Obama was created when Design Observer essentially asked the question, “how can graphic designers best support Barack Obama?” Our answer ended up extending the question to cover visual communicators at all levels. In addition to supporting Obama for America we jumped at the opportunity to bring the spirit of grassroots style organizing and collaboration to poster design which, to us, meant not only forming communal bonds but sharing the fruits of our efforts equally and in such a way that anyone can enjoy and benefit from (because most of us do not own our own printing presses).

Again, it seems that the quality of branding and message of the Obama campaign has inspired widespread activism, and have people giving of themselves in ways they might not have considered before. In honor of this, I'll feature some of my favorite posters in my blog up until the election.

Other poster sites that have sprung up: 30 Reasons. Each day, a new poster is added to showcase reasons why you should vote for Barack Obama.

Perhaps Sketch For Change has something you'd be interested in.

A way to keep up on the Art being made for Obama? The Obama Art Report.

But the art isn't just for designers or serial artists. It's for everyone. For example, Spelling Change offers everyone an opportunity to create a letter for the website.

My local sewing co-op and fashion store, Fasten Collective, has WeHeartObama as their designer of the month.

Needless to say, the Obama campaign has been inspiring for artists everywhere.

DIY = the Unity of Grass Roots Action

I've also never seen so many people mobilized to take a symbol and make grass-roots creations, and then share them with others. In my own community, the organizer of Milwaukee Renaissance promoted an Art for Obama gathering where people came together to make Obama yard signs - homemade ways of expressing support.

Or you could organize a Yes We Carveparty and carve pumpkins with various logos, mottoes and other Obama supporting messages. Patterns are provided at the website, along with instructions, and an opportunity to join a contest.

Want to wear your own support? How about a knitting pattern for the logo? Like to see the results?

Many of these items are described in the Obama Craft Project. Which includes a post(complete with video) on how to create your own Obama pin. DIY or DIE features some Barack Obama jewelry on Etsy and other places.

In the spirit of FreeCycle, there's an ObamaCycle - a way to get Obama gear into the hands of people who want it but can't afford it.

It must be true that this campaign has organized more people than has been seen for a long time. Either people are really tired of the same political ways - which McCain seems to represent to them - or they really believe in the Obama message.

Either way, it seems to point towards greater unity for all.

(originally posted at Exponential)

In times of need...

Annette from Indianapolis, IN — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 09:29:59 EDT

As you have heard, the situation for Barack Obama's grandmother appears to be gravely serious. This is a time when he needs our support more than at any other time. If her situation should take a turn for the worse, the he must have faith that

"her memory will be a stronger force in him for the rest of his life than the

actual physical presence of any other human being."

We all have someone that inspired us to be who we are today. Who instilled our ethics and our values in us that we carry with us for the remainder of our lives.

Barack is providing a similar inspiration to the children of today who are seeing the possibility before them, who are following a politician for the first time, who hear a man speak in a way that draws them into a better world.

We must continue to carry the message while he tends to family.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Obama in Indianapolis, as well as everywhere.

Voting in Florida..and me.

Tracy from Palm Coast, FL — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 15:36:27 EDT

You know, Barack Obama is the first candidate that has ever motivated me to vote. Granted, being 27 years old, I've only been able to vote for the 2 elections prior to this one, and after squandering my first two opportunities I've grown older, and wiser..and just care more.

We just moved to Florida about 2 months ago, and since my husband works an hour away and we only have one vehicle, I was worried about being able to cast my ballot. I asked my mother in law to borrow her car and I went today! My two smallest children in their stroller babbling away, I got in the long line at the library to vote..

I was saddened to see a bunch of people sporting "I support McCain/Palin" buttons. I tried talking to one of them before we went in, asking him why he supports the Republican ticket and he said "I've always been a Republican, they're the only party that supports my values." I asked him if his values involved higher tax cuts for large corporations. Cutting funding for people in need, such as people who need college grants, or state aid for families who don't make enough money working several jobs to support themselves. I told him that this is the first election I've ever cared about because we can't afford more of the exact same policies that we've had the last 8 years, and that if nothing else, I was voting for the Obama/Biden ticket for the future..my future, my children's future. That I want to be able to retire when I was his age and not work until I am 90. That I want my children to be able to do the same. That I want to see this country self sufficient, not in this ever increasing hole of national debt we are digging ourselves into..

Purpose, Destiny, and Legacy...

Dr. B. — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 08:05:24 EDT

Deposit #30 from the book, "Remember, It Is Your Charge, Go Master The Day." www.gomastertheday.com

“Purpose, Destiny, & Legacy.”

Your “Purpose” is your reason for living. Your “Destiny” is the testimony that you have lived your “Purpose.” You live your “Purpose” in order to arrive at your place of “Destiny” – “Achieved Greatness.”

Your “Legacy” is what you leave behind; it is directly identifiable with the fruit of your labor and is based upon whether or not you have fulfilled your purpose and arrived at your place of “Destiny.”

To come to the end of your life without fulfilling your “Purpose” for living, leaves you a legacy of defeat, failure, and incompleteness.

When you live according to your God ordained purpose, you leave a legacy of victory, success and wholeness.

The fear of hell is really the acknowledgement that you have not lived out your purpose.

The joy of heaven is knowing that you have lived a life according to the purpose God has ordained for you.

It was not enough that Jesus was born in order to be The Savior of the world; He had to live out His purpose in order to arrive at His place of destiny (“Achieved Greatness.”) His “Destiny” testifies that He lived His purpose.

It was not enough that Ghandi was born in order to be a great political & spiritual leader of India and have an impact across the world; he had to live out his purpose in order to arrive at his place of destiny (“Achieved Greatness.”) His “Destiny” testifies that he lived his purpose.

It was not enough that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was born in order to lead the Civil Rights Movement in America, and be a moral conscience to the entire world; he had to live out his purpose in order to arrive at his place of destiny (“Achieved Greatness.”) His “Destiny testifies that he lived his purpose.

[It is not enough that Sen. Barack Obama was the first black president of the “Harvard Law Review,” or that he turned down a fast track lucrative career with big law firms or Wall Street companies in order to work and help bring hope to the inner cities of Chicago; it is not enough that Sen. Obama served as a community leader, or a State Senator, or that he became The Senator from Chicago. It is not enough that Sen. Obama became the first American of African (and European) ancestry to win the nomination for the Presidency of a major party; he must continue to live out his purpose in order to arrive at his place of destiny (“Achieved Greatness”). His destiny continues to testify that he lives his purpose. His legacy continues to grow.]

You must realize it is not enough to simply be born. You must live out your purpose in order to arrive at your place of destiny (“Achieved Greatness.”) Will your “Destiny testify that you lived your purpose?

You live your “Purpose” to arrive at your “Destiny” in order to leave a great legacy that helps others to “Master The Day.”

Remember, it is your charge, “Go Master the Day©.”

Dr. B. (Allen C. Barham, Sr.)

www.gomastertheday.com

It's good to be an Obama Supporter!

Rudy — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 00:38:47 EDT

Attending various Obama events has really opened up my eyes on not only a social level but more on a political/enlightening level.

Hearing various stories from different individuals from different backgrounds really just puts in perspective how many of us are very similiar but are so much different: Politically, socially, mentally, spiritually...the beauty of it all, is we all deep down want the same things out of life: Fairness, equality, opportunity, a positive outcome, nationally and globally...

We all grow up and want to do our part and I am doing mine. Could I be doing more? For sure. But I do the best I can with what I have.

Obama continues to inspire - 2008 with all it's downs, is a good year too in so many ways.

Obama's Past Perfectly Suited To Run America's Future

Deborah M. — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 23:59:15 EDT

Imagine, if you will, a man. He is humble, hard-working, and devoted to fighting for the rights of the average man. His early years were spent learning to be an accomplished speaker, learning about international relations, learning about the inner workings of our government.

His early work took him through the most modest of neighborhoods in Chicago, exposing him to the trials and challenges of lower and middle class America; indeed, reminding him from whence he came. In later years, this man teaches constitutional law for more than a decade, inarguably qualifying him to defend every American's civil rights.

His charitable works have honed his moral skills to a fine edge and, coupled with his genuine intentions, have led him to this place in American history.

This man is Barack Obama, the anti-politician, the man perfectly suited for the Oval Office, precisely because he fits no previous mold of presidents past. His unorthodox methods of reform and action are an inspiration to the millions of formerly cynical Americans he's motivated toward change.

Americans have made it abundantly clear in recent months that the general feeling across the country is one of urgency for civic, environmental, and global change. The American people have made it clear - considering the economic meltdown and the average family drowning financially - that transparency and fiscal responsibility is critical. This means We the People are not interested in politics as usual; rather, we hunger for a president who defies the typical role of politician. Barack Obama is that individual. He forgets not from where he came while recognizing where he must take us.

Time for a change. A real change. It's time to elect Barack Obama for President.

Letters from the Field: "You have truly made a great effect on my life"

Josh In Michigan — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 15:32:28 EDT

Daniel in Flint sent us this story:

Barack Obama, I am a 16 year old young man from Flint, Michigan. I just stopped by to say you have truly made a great effect on my life. I used to fight a lot, now I can say I haven't been in a fight for at least three months, so thank you Barack Obama.

Barack Live in Dayton 10-9-08

Mo'bama — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 15:10:05 EDT

I am renewed! After seeing Obama live today and coming THIS close to shaking his hand, I have finally realized how simple it is to believe in his ability. The one image that stands out in my mind after this afternoon is the image of Barack standing three feet away from me with arms and hands outstretched from every direction to make contact with the next President. As my 18 month old and I were being squished against the fence I thought, "wow these folks are getting a little scary!" But the energy was amazing, the support was palpable. Driving home the hour back to Sidney I analyzed all of it. People believe in Barack Obama because he believes in our power. People are instinctually drawn to that which gives them power and POWER is Obama's promise to the people. The over-riding theme today to me seemed not to be so small as the economy, but so great as our ability to take control over our own lives and our own decisions. He made everyone in that stadium feel as if they MATTERED personally to him. That gives dignity to an individual to tell him that he matters. It gives confidence to an individual to tell him that he has power and control over what happens here and that he can effect change. What an inspiring message for an America that so often seems to feel apathetic and inconsequential. What an inspiring leader Barack Obama will make!

Obama inspired art: 50 States of an Amercian Dream

Kathy in NJ — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 22:27:34 EDT

Hello Everyone,

I am an Obama supporter and artist and thought you might be interested to see a work inspired by Barack Obama that I just completed which is to be shown in an art exhibit starting Oct. 10.

As a response to the negative comments from the McCain/Palin campaign lately, I felt it necessary to create a positive work of art as a reminder and to help stay focused on how uplifting I feel the future could be with Obama's leadership. I created a work titled "50 States of an American Dream" with the intention to share that view with others. It is a rubbing/drawing featuring a map of the US and 50 positive words and I designed it all so it has some resemblance to a US flag. I know many of you are busy doing all you can to help the campaign in these last weeks, but I hope you can spare a few moments to check out the images I posted of it on my MySpace page. Perhaps it will be inspiring for you too. They can be viewed at:

http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewPicture&friendID=309219113&albumId=1074491

or to read my MySpace blog about it at:

http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=309219113&blogID=439231071

Thank you again for all YOU are doing!

Kathy

Obama is Presidential...period

OliviaW — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 13:49:45 EDT

Having watched the first two debates over the last few weeks and watching the candidates as they navigate the financial crisis with the rest of us, I can firmly and emphatically state that Barack Obama is one of those individuals who is Presidential. Others include Eisenhower, JFK, Reagan and Clinton. All of these persons have an air about them that just suits the presidency. Sure, all of them made mistakes and have their place in history, but they simply had something about them that made it easy to see them as President. Now I suppose that if you find Obama's ideology completely at odds with your own, it is probably harder to see that. But I think that even folks who are not fans of Reagan, often have to admit that he was Presidential. It's an intangible, but it is real enough to me that I now fret over the idea that McCain could become President. I certainly was not hoping nor working for that, but I think I could have "gotten over it". Now, I am feeling even more strongly that if we miss this opportunity to put one of those individuals who just ooze President in the White House...we will suffer for our mediocrity. John McCain clearly has a great deal of good qualities, but he is not Presidential (to be honest Palin feels moreso than McCain).

One last thought in the "Presidential Presence" discussion. There has been a lot made of Obama's use of inspirational speeches as he seeks the office. Republicans are super cynical and say it's all a lot of bright lights and greek columns and movie style theatrics. Here's the problem with their desire to diminish his ability to inspire - almost every book on leadership written by CEOs in the past 20 years says that "a leader must inspire and motivate his employees". Most seem to contend that a good plan is just not enough. A leader has to inspire folks to work harder and sacrifice for something that they can care about. A leader has to lift them up and rekindle their belief that they can achieve the goals they seek. Funny how it wasn't movie style theatrics when Reagan did it...

Musical Inspiration from DJ Z-Trip

Thomas L. Strickland — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 10:14:31 EDT

DJ Z-Trip has compiled an excellent hour-long mix of energetic music, Obama sound-bytes and other well-placed samples. This is an hour of conscious thought set to an infectious beat, a time for a floor-filling party DJ to put his considerable talents into expressing just how much this Election means to him. And how much he hopes it means to you.

So download it. It's free. Two versions are available, one is more "radio-friendly" than the other.

http://www.djztrip.com/obama/

Politically Incorrect and Proud

Clarissa from Jacksonville, FL — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 00:13:45 EDT

Mothers...Aunts...Big Sisters...Friends....

I just got through watching one of the most significant conversations in the history of my existence..the 2008 presidential debate. I have to profess that I am completely inspired and humbled by Barack Obama's courage, diplomacy, and persistence.

I had a thought...one of those evenings after a long day's work...when you are tired from today and tired already from tomorrow and you walk into your child's room to discover she found a sharpie and decided to color herself, her bed, her carpet and her walls with it...and you are overcome with anxiety & exhaustion, feeling like you haven't the strength to clean up this mess.....

I think of Barack.

I think of the fact that despite the overwhelming racist and ignorant accusations that your own fellow citizens have made about you...in fact the same citizens that would benefit from YOUR blood, sweat, and tears NONE the less...AND the fact that he is willing to come into a position AND CLEAN UP A MESS with only a motive of making our country a better place for our children to grow up in...IS NOTHING SHORT of breathtaking. A MESS that is almost certain to turn into one of the most tragic failures in the history of American Economy all but engaged in a WORLD WAR, not to mention the scores of other issues that are stinging the hearts of almost every family in our country on a DAILY BASIS...a mess that nobody in this world DARE to fix BUT HIM.

And for what? A President's salary is not any more than what some college graduates achieve. Barack Obama does not accept "gifts" from Big Oil, Pharmaceutical Companies, Foreign Governments, or anyone else for that matter. HE IS DOING THIS FOR HIS KIDS and YOURS.

John McCain is banking on the idea that by MANIPULATING the Bush Administration's approach, Americans will be fooled into believing that things could get better. FOOLED into thinking that staying in IRAQ and going BANKRUPT is better than trying to make PEACE and focus on the emergencies RIGHT HERE AT HOME. AND he is SO FULL OF HIMSELF that he doesn't even think he needs a vice president for anything more than eyecandy at foreign meetings.

SO, I am taking my HOPE for America, and I am taking Barack's beliefs, and I AM GOING TO WORK for a change. I carry in my purse a stack of voter registration forms and I WILL RALLY every last OBAMA SUPPORTER that I can. I will volunteer. I will vote. I will remind my loved ones to vote BECAUSE EVERY VOTE COUNTS. And I will continue to believe that things can be better. I will no longer accept that being politically correct is more imporant than being true to myself. I will no longer be held by fear....I am choosing HOPE. Please won't you do the same.

Inspirational Leadership

Tony — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 18:27:55 EDT

Can you remember when you were inspired by the occupant of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue? Or have you just been afraid of what's going to happen next?

I'm tired of being afraid and would dearly love to have a President who can inspire the public to do something other than go shopping.

We have a chance to put a real leader and a real visionary in place. Let's not pass that up.

HOPE and CHANGE - the foundation for a real solution

Kevin ":: g+s+ ::" Winterfield — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 16:33:03 EDT

People,
Some (well, Republicans) like to shoot us down for our beliefs that having HOPE and wanting CHANGE are to wishy-washy.

Well, I have to say that without both of those, you have no foundation for getting out of any of this mess.

Obama provides us with the guidance and inspiration, as well as the details, to fix any problem that hits us. Obama makes me want to get down and dirty and work hard to bring our country back from life support. He inspires me to get off my ass and do something.

That's why HOPE and CHANGE are so important - because without them you end up with... well.. Bush... and then... yup yup... McCain and AlaskaGrrl.

-k
g+s+ :: take action now :: !!

The Kind of President I Want

Robert Warden — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 20:53:42 EDT

The following is a post from my Box-Free Blog dated June 4. It is now in the archives under "We People Versus Me People." I post several times per week, mostly about politics from a progressive point of view. My website is http://www.boxfreeblog.com I can post more material in the future, but meanwhile, I encourage fellow Obama enthusiasts to check out my Box-Free Blog.

The We People Versus the Me People Part 9: The Kind of President I Want

Congratulations to Barack Obama! He officially went over the number of delegates needed to win the nomination of the Democratic Party. Thus, he is the presumptive nominee of the Democratic Party, despite the reluctance of Hillary Clinton to quit her candidacy and her being an ungracious loser. This seems like the appropriate time to bring up a topic which I have been thinking about for quite a while -- that of what kind of president I would really like to have. It is unrealistic to expect that out next president will be exactly what I had hoped for, but Barack Obama seems to come the closest by far. I wish for a president of the United States who would:

1. Act as a "peacemonger," not a warmonger, one whose basic orientation is that of a pacifist who abhors war;

2. Maintain separation of church and state, and have an open mind to all forms of spiritual belief systems (or nonbelief systems);

3. Consistently advocate progressive policies, at the very least, some of those which have been sucessfully employed in other nations;

4. Put the people ahead of his/her own personal ambitions;

5. Commence with the building of a society which is more "we" oriented rather than "me" oriented, one in which the public good takes precedence over individual freedoms, when the two conflict, but individual freedom prevails as long as the public good is not threatened;

6. Make every attempt to bring people together "on both sides of the aisle" and works in a bipartisan manner, but does not give in or defer to the other side on any issue;

7. Treat all citizens of the United States equally regardless of race, gender, religion, ethnicity, country of origin, age, sexual orientation, or any other demographic characteristic;

8. Not use scare tactics or unfair campaign or election tactics to help his/her political future, nor that of his/her political party, but rather, rely on positive yet realistic messages;

9. Is an inspiration not only to citizens of the United States of America, but to people all over the world;

10. Make policy which helps improve peoples' quality of life all over the world, rather than exploiting them for our benefit, with the recogntion that ultimately, we on this earth all depend on each other;

11. Work to help control population increase around the world, with the recognition that quality of life and our environment depend on having a reasonable, sustainable human population on this planet;

12. Work to reduce global warming and pollution in the U.S. and worldwide, by motivating people to be environmentally conscious, and encouraging them to use new and effective "green" technology;

13. Believe in the mission of the United Nations and actively and cooperatively work with the United Nations, as well as other international organizations and individual nations ;

14. Actively emphasizes education and research as the underpinnings of a well-informed, technologically progressive society.

15. Appoints supreme court justices who are relatively impartial arbiters of the law.

Specifically, I wish our next president would:

1. Greatly reduce our military budget, thereby reducing our budget deficit;

2. Transition our military out of Iraq and Afghanistan, while taking steps to peacefully help rebuild their societies, including infrastructure, education, and politics;

3. Reduce our military presence at bases around the world, to be replaced perhaps by United Nations forces, where needed;

4. Enforce the Sherman Anititrust Act;

5. Reverse policies which favor corporatism over the public good;

6. Make corporations and churches pay their fair share of taxes;

7. Look at the "big picture" and think of policy not just in terms of the present, but also the future;

8. Not be afraid to raise taxes on the wealthier individuals in the United States, or to suspend social security payments to those whose incomes are over a certain level, thus recuding our budget deficit.

9. Promotes legislation to reduce the power of lobbies.

10. Promotes socialized health care similar to that in Europe or Taiwan.

11. Promotes public funding of political campaigns, which will reduce the power of lobbies and the wealthy in political campaigns.

12. Initiates investigations into the wrongdoings of the previous admiistration.

There are probably other imoportant issues I have not thought of, but these 27 preceding items should certainly capture the essence of what I would like in a president.

I sincerely and fervently hope that Barack Obama will be elected as the United States next president, and furthermore, that he will be this type of president. Once again, congratulations, Barack! I consider you to be a friend of humanity.

House of cards

Mary L — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 20:49:16 EDT

I lost my electicity for a little over a day this week - a minor inconvenience compared to the catastrophic damage that was done in Texas and Louisiana by Gustav and Ike, but it gave me some time to think. I thought about what would happen if our financial system unraveled;I thought about what would happen if the American economy unraveled; what would happen if our social security system unraveled; what would happen if our roads, power grid, transportation system and communications systems unraveled and came crashing down like a house of cards. Then I couldn't think about it any more.

We are in a period of change. Whether we want it or not, things are changing. What I CAN think about is who I want leading that change. Do I want someone willing to entertain new ideas, willing to bring fresh, young, idealistic people to Washington, willing to surround himself with people who have different ideas, are willing to challenge him and the status quo? Yes, that's the type of person I want. I don't want someone born in the 1930's who doesn't know how to send an email, doesn't understand the complexities of wall street, and isn't willing to listen to young people. I don't want someone who already has his mind made up in advance about everything.

I want someone willing to consider options and listen to and come up with alternatives, so the BEST solutions are chosen not the solutions that will satisfy his political cronies. I want a leader who inspires trust, confidence and hope. What do you want?

What are you willing to do to get what you want? Are you willing to get involved? Are you willing to let your voice be heard? Talk with your friends and co-workers even if they disagree with you. Your voice and opinions are important and the stakes are too high in this election to keep them to yourself. Give money if you can, time if you can, and if you can't give those send an email, forward an email, write a letter to the editor, take whatever action you can.

Your actions today do make a difference!

Here's another link you might want to read. (you have to click on Salon to get to the article)

http://www.salon.com/news/feature/2008/09/15/bess/index.html

A Nice Note

Brenda — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 19:38:58 EDT

While pulling out of a parking spot after grocery shopping, I noticed a handwritten note on my windshield. I'm think... great, somebody wrote something nasty in response to my Obama bumper sticker. I was pleasantly suprised. It read "Great bumper sticker. Obama... our next president!" I drove home with a smile on my face! I think I'll make a habit out of writing notes myself.

YES WE CANdles!

U'PHORIA — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 03:00:19 EDT

As you all are aware, we are approaching a momentous time in history, with Barack Obama running for President of the United States of America. During the last nine months, I have listened to his speeches and have admired his message of change. He inspires me to want to make a difference, while motivating others in the process.

Oftentimes we speak of change but aren't sure how to begin or what to do. I wondered what I could do to make a difference, using my God given talents. I decided something small was better then nothing at all! These thoughts crafted the idea for the YES WE CANdle Collection, with candles that are designed in honor and support of the Obama Campaig, donating 20% of the proceeds from each candle with pride to the campaign!

These candles are part of my new venture, u`phoria, a body and home fragrance line of products. My current focus is "Candles for a Cause," allowing me to make a difference by donating proceeds from each candle sale to a worthy organization! Please check out my YES WE CANdles, and help bring Barack Obama a step closer to becoming our President! This is my way of honoring and supporting Obama, the man that inspired me to want to make a difference and allowed me to realize that anything is possible...Yes We Can accomplish all things with hard work and dedication!

http://www.Uphoria.Etsy.com

u`phoria

A Desperate Need For A Compelling Story

Mark — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 11:26:05 EDT

If you haven't read George Lakoff's Don't Think of An Elephant, please do so- and quickly. He talks about frames and worldview, and how that impacts people.

When Obama first came into this election, I was electrified. I was inspired. I got it. But, since the convention (and I loved his speech), since choosing Biden, and since McCain picked Palin, I've noticed that I've lost my sense of inspiration.

I believe what's missing is a strong narrative. They are doing what Democrats always do to lose elections- they are talking about the issues without a strong narrative to support the progressive viewpoint. Facts and figures without context, and you can notice that energy, momentum, excitement is being lost.

It's not too late. I wrote up a draft of what I think could be a strong narrative. And that's to focus back on the "we" in the message. People say that "change" is what this is about- and I disagree. I think the strongest, most inspirational part of the message is "we." There are a whole host of historical factors that make this true- I may talk about it in a later post.

Little Successes

Kellie Raines — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 04:40:11 EDT

I've been inspired by art, poetry, words, theatre, beauty, sadness and a million other things. I've also been passionate about social issues for most of my adult life and they have informed my artistic voice. But I was never motivated or inspired enough to act, to make a change in the community. I watched, I spoke, but I never acted. Barack Obama has not only inspired my renewed faith in the possibility for change in this country, but he has inspired in me what it means to be a citizen. We all really are individually responsible for the change we want. We must live that change.

So I've done something I used to think taboo or embarrassing.

I've asked friends to get involved.
To donate or give of their time.
To register to vote when they never have before.
To pay attention to the facts and the issues.

I was always afraid of being "that one friend" who harped or preached.But I learned I care too much about this country to sit idly and politely by because there is too much to lose.The Republicans have had eight years to get it right. And while some things may have been out of their control, I believe there is a fundamental and urgent need for change. Barack Obama is our chance for that change.For me, the personal success is becoming more engaged. It's not really about the money, but that I've been actively involved in the ways I can to make a difference. I've asked myself to do what I was apathetic or afraid to do before. I've donated money, but I've also raised my first $25 via my personal fundraising site for Barack Obama. And it may seem little or trite, but one person heard me. That means one more person has thought about the issues and how important individual acts are.

Thank you for the start. Thank you.

When was the last time Barack stated YES WE CAN???

Lee — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 15:46:35 EDT

ANYONE who reads this, if you could please pass this along and hopefully we can get the attention of HQ.

I am of the belief, with only 55 days left in the race, that Barack needs to bring back the Intensity and Inspiration that attracted most of us to him in the first place. You see on cable, Palin and McCain have huge crowds of thousands where ever they go, they are doing what Obama used to do on a daily basis. Inspriring American and creating a momentum and wave of spirit all over the country.

If you see YouTube, watch some of the rallies and gatherings Obama was doing in the Primaries. LETS GET BACK TO THE BASICS THAT BROUGHT US TO WHERE WE ARE TODAY. Tommorrow and every single day until the election, we must bring back "YES WE CAN". "HOPE" "CHANGE".

What the McCain campaign cannot compete with is bringing back our Inspiration of thousands chanting YES WE CAN. The McCain attacks are exactly what Barack said we would face. The same old Republican scare tactics, multiple ads running every day, playing same old Politics games.

What we all loved about Obama is that his campaign is built on us, the people, and changing the ways of the dirty politics. The way he needs to come back is to bring back the INSPIRATION OF CHANGE and fight against this typical Republican attack machine that we all have been warned about. Just stop for a second and think, as the McCain machine keeps rolling over us, he is sitting in his "Straight Talk Express" just laughing and smiling as he "makes fun" of Obama, smears him, jumps on every word he says. When, who he is really making fun of is US, as this campaign is built by the people.

So, how Obama says "ENOUGH IS ENOUGH", as the American People that have brought us to where we are today, lets all get out and fight for our leader who is the true canidate of change. John McCain will not be laughing and smiling any longer if Obama starts massive rallies every day and bringing back the inspiration of Hope, Change and YES WE CAN. Day by Day the excitement will continue to build and build and we will be able to drown out the excitement of McCain-Palin. Going and talking in small venues, libraries or companies, is not going to bring back the momentum.

The HQ Team should right now be coordinating and planning huge rallies every day and Barack should go back to his Inspiring Messages he stated that brought all of us onto his team in the 1st place.

Help me to get this message around so we can change the momentum. BACK TO BASICS of what got us here is what will help us WIN. WE MUST. DO NOT GIVE UP!!!!!! WE CAN GET IT BACK.

YES WE CAN, YES WE MUST!

REMEMBER - FIRED UP - READY TO GO!!!

BRING BACK THE FIRE - IGNOR MCCAIN-PALIN. YOU ARE PLAYING RIGHT INTO THEIR GAME. WHAT "WILL" KNOCK THEM BACK ON THEIR HEELS IS 20,000 PLUS ALL CHANTING "YES WE CAN". THEN 40,000 THEN 60,000..... TO THE PRESIDENCY... IF THE FIREY WORDS AND SPEECHES OF INSPIRATION AND HOPE ARE BROUGHT BACK, MCCAIN CANT COMPETE WITH THAT.

PLEASE GET THIS TO CAMPAIGN HQ AND IN THE RIGHT HANDS!!!!!!

LEE WILCOX FROM CONNECTICUT

Solution to HQ

Lee — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 15:22:21 EDT

ANYONE who reads this, if you could please pass this along and hopefully we can get the attention of HQ.

The HQ Team should right now be coordinating and planning huge rallies every day and Barack should go back to his Inspiring Messages he stated that brought all of us onto his team in the 1st place.

Help me to get this message around so we can change the momentum.

US Elections 2008: Leading Psychologist Analyzes What's at Stake

Benin WB — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 14:18:22 EDT

I love this article. It is so well spoken and hits so many of the key points. In fact, the points made in this article dovetail very nicely with why I chose to vote democrat in the 2008 elections. This is why I will soon author my own piece discussing why I made the choice to support Senator Obama and why I became involved in his campaign. In it I will also try to detail what I have learned along the way...since I began getting involved with the campaign.

Stay tuned...

This is from Deepak Chopra:

"Sometimes politics has the uncanny effect of mirroring the national psyche even when nobody intended to do that. This is perfectly illustrated by the rousing effect that Gov. Sarah Palin had on the Republican convention in Minneapolis this week. On the surface, she outdoes former Vice President Dan Quayle as an unlikely choice, given her negligent parochial expertise in the complex affairs of governing. Her state of Alaska has less than 700,000 residents, which reduces the job of governor to the scale of running one-tenth of New York City. By comparison, Rudy Giuliani is a towering international figure. Palin's pluck has been admired, and her forthrightness, but her real appeal goes deeper.
She is the reverse of Barack Obama, in essence his shadow, deriding his idealism and exhorting people to obey their worst impulses . In psychological terms the shadow is that part of the psyche that hides out of sight, countering our aspirations, virtue, and vision with qualities we are ashamed to face: anger, fear, revenge, violence, selfishness, and suspicion of "the other." For millions of Americans, Obama triggers those feelings, but they don't want to express them. He is calling for us to reach for our higher selves, and frankly, that stirs up hidden reactions of an unsavory kind. (Just to be perfectly clear, I am not making a verbal play out of the fact that Sen. Obama is black. The shadow is a metaphor widely in use before his arrival on the scene.) I recognize that psychological analysis of politics is usually not welcome by the public, but I believe such a perspective can be helpful here to understand Palin’s message. In her acceptance speech Gov. Palin sent a rousing call to those who want to celebrate their resistance to change and a higher vision.

Look at what she stands for:
--Small town values -- a denial of America's global role, a return to petty, small-minded parochialism.
--Ignorance of world affairs -- a repudiation of the need to repair America's image abroad.
--Family values -- a code for walling out anybody who makes a claim for social justice. Such strangers, being outside the family, don't need to be heeded.
--Rigid stands on guns and abortion -- a scornful repudiation that these issues can be negotiated with those who disagree.
--Patriotism -- the usual fallback in a failed war.
--"Reform" -- an italicized term, since in addition to cleaning out corruption and excessive spending, one also throws out anyone who doesn't fit your ideology.

Palin reinforces the overall message of the reactionary right, which has been in play since 1980, that social justice is liberal-radical, that minorities and immigrants, being different from "us" pure American types, can be ignored, that progressivism takes too much effort and globalism is a foreign threat. The radical right marches under the banners of "I'm all right, Jack," and "Why change? Everything's OK as it is." The irony, of course, is that Gov. Palin is a woman and a reactionary at the same time. She can add mom to apple pie on her resume, while blithely reversing forty years of feminist progress. The irony is superficial; there are millions of women who stand on the side of conservatism, however obviously they are voting against their own good. The Republicans have won multiple national elections by raising shadow issues based on fear, rejection, hostility to change, and narrow-mindedness.

Obama's call for higher ideals in politics can't be seen in a vacuum. The shadow is real; it was bound to respond. Not just conservatives possess a shadow -- we all do. So what comes next is a contest between the two forces of progress and inertia. Will the shadow win again, or has its furtive appeal become exhausted? No one can predict. The best thing about Gov. Palin is that she brought this conflict to light, which makes the upcoming debate honest. It would be a shame to elect another Reagan, whose smiling persona was a stalking horse for the reactionary forces that have brought us to the demoralized state we are in. We deserve to see what we are getting, without disguise."

My Lightning Bolt Moment

Todd Parker — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 09:58:40 EDT

My humble involvement in the Presidential election came in one of those lightning bolt moments, when hearing Barack Obama deliver his victory speech after the the Iowa Caucus I sprung from my bed and took action!

I have the courage to believe.

Dr. Cannarella — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 21:51:20 EDT

I recently read a National Geographic article covering soil conservation issues and was inspired by the tale of a man whose story was included in the article. I was feeling depressed after watching much of the RNC and the political party that has a good chance of retaining control of our destiny run a campaign that so much resembles Nazism in the continuous hatefulness and fear-mongering. The narrowing of the national polls further disheartened me and I was beginning to come to the conclusion that my dreams would continue to be ignored. The article described how a farmer had worked so hard for so long trying to restore the fertility of the land that he farmed on even though he did not own the land. According to the article, the land-owner had informed the farmer that he was planning on selling off the land as the farmers tireless efforts had worked so well that the improved fertility had increased the value of the land many times over. The farmer still continued in his efforts to renew the soils fertility despite that fact that he would no longer be guaranteed the right to farm the land. When asked why he continued, he replied that he had “the courage to hope.” This lesson made me realize that I too have the courage to hope and that is precisely why I support Obama. Too many people recently have been fooled into believing that the willingness to go to war is the only way to be heroic. They have forgotten that it takes guts to be gentle and kind. The will to look forward and embrace people rather that divide them into groups pitted against one another means risking being shunned by all. It takes courage to hope. This realization has renewed my determination and I hope that it will also for everyone else who feels as though their dreams are vanishing.

Why I have never voted before.

Ryan E. Poole - www.Power Poole.com — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 18:30:00 EDT

Why I have never voted before.

    My name is Ryan E. Poole. I was born in 1971 in Ann Arbor Michigan (GO BLUE :) and I am a 37 year old African American male now living in Huntsville, AL. I lived in Michigan with my mother until I was 10 years old. As part of the first wave of Generation X’ers growing up in the north, I rarely experienced what I call racism. From 1st to 4th grade, I had to ride the bus 20 or 30 miles across town by myself in order to attend a fairly integrated private Christian school. Because I attended a church sponsored school, politics was rarely the subject of a lesson. I honestly cannot even recall any substantive lessons about the struggles of civil rights or voting for that matter.

    When I turned 11, my mom remarried and our new family moved to Alabama because of a Chrysler plant closing. Moving from north to south in the 80’s was a big culture shock for me to say the least. The lines drawn between races were definitely made more prominent in the south. One thing I distinctly remember seeing in Michigan was more interracial couples. As a teenager in Alabama, I remember hearing many more discussions about the civil rights movement but even in those conversations, there was not really an emphasis placed on the importance of voting from older blacks or whites. I am not sure if that was because the civil rights movement was actually more about equality than voting or whether it was just an assumption that everybody here knows that they are supposed to vote. At any rate, I grew up embracing a typical Generation X mindset that my vote really did not count, so why bother. However, my reason for not voting was not based on ignorance of the struggle or even the voting process for that matter.

    While attending college, I remember many heated discussions with older people from the South, including my professors, about the importance of voting. I even devoted my free time to winning those kinds of arguments by proving that our votes really did not count or at least that we had no way to truly prove that they counted. The stock rebuttal that every “pro-voter” relied on, without fail, was that many people died for the right for black people to vote. My response was, dying for a cause or right that was not truly understood did not make the cause any nobler, no matter how sincere the martyrs. One can imagine how blasphemous this sounded to those older black southerners, whose parents died in that very struggle. They spent countless hours trying to convince me of the error of my ways and came pretty close to stoning me after some of those “discussions.” It always ended with my challenge – “prove to me that my vote or your vote or anybody’s vote actually counts in electing the President.” No one was ever able to do so, so I never saw the point.

    Years later, the fiascos of the last two Bush elections only confirmed my position that our vote really does not count. Even before those two clear violations of America’s trust, my understanding of the Electoral College from a pragmatist standpoint gave me all the ammunition I needed. State ballots are designed to suggest that the voters are voting for actual presidential candidates. In reality, we are only voting for presidential electors who in turn vote for a presidential candidate more than a month later. While many states require that their electors vote as they have pledged, the Constitution does not require the same. The discrepancies in exit polls, the differences in electronic counting versus hand counting, the non-reconciling of ballots or types of ballots after the vote, and lack of secure storing methods all are points that cannot be disputed by pro-voters. In short, there is no viable or consistent checks and balances for the current voting process and therefore no possible way to prove that our votes actually count. This is what I actually meant when I said the people who died for the right to vote did not understand the process. Otherwise, in my mind, somebody would have suggested fighting for more than just the right to vote. They would have realized that they needed to ensure that the votes that they so dearly wanted to cast would actually count or at least gave the next generation the commission to ensure that they counted.

Commercial break...

Getting Started, and an amazing story from Hurricane Gustav

Morie Newman — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 16:05:37 EDT

It's been four days now since I made the decision to get out of the house and actually do something to help Sen. Obama. Volunteering at the Bethesda Grassroots Obama Office (The BOO, as it is known) has made me feel a part of this campaign like never before. I've made a few calls for volunteers, entered a TON of data, and even stayed till 2 AM last night helping re-configure the office and the network setup.

It never ceases to amaze me how this campaign brings people together, and motivates people to get involved. Listening to Sen. Obama speak is inspirational in its own right, but just seeing total stranger after total stranger walk into the BOO, remark that they saw all the signs in the window, and ask what they can do to help is the most incredible thing. One story in particular, however, made me stop what I was doing just to listen.

(after the jump)

Inspirational Quote Today

Dan — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 09:59:59 EDT

Been a while since posting my previous quotes... so here are TWO that are quite inspiring to me.

Canadians watching

Unknown user — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 22:53:14 EDT

I am a Canadian who is watching closely at this election...you are our neighbours and we should always remain friends.

I am watching because Obama has inspired me. He is remarkable He is worthy of a remark....and so are the people who are supporting him. Thank you for breathing life into your politics and changing perceptions of the American people.

Getting into the fray...

Bryan Adamson — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 12:23:09 EDT

You know how it is. You have children who need taking care of. There's the daily commute to school, to work, to wherever. We're always rushing about trying to stay on top of work and home maintenance. Sleep becomes a luxury. And so our busy lives distract us from important events that may seem bigger than us or not important to us. Participating in politics is something for folks who have time. You know the type. College students and old, blue-haired biddies are the stereotypical folks who have time for such things.

But since Al Gore was robbed, this country has veered badly off course. Mostly I've watched intently from the sidelines. Sometimes I've participated in protests, letter writing campaigns and other good intentioned actions only to feel completely ignored. Obama's campaign offers a ray of hope to me. His campaign's ability to organize - this website for example - is a testimony to his potential to involve more Americans in the national political dialogue. He is giving voice to common people and seems to be listening.

I have many reasons to support Obama, but I have a full time job and don't have the time to list them all now. However, I will give my most important reason for supporting him. He inspires me. Inspiration isn't insignificant. The motivation that comes from inspiration can lead to great achievements. It can rally the stock market. It can increase consumer confidence. It can make the impossible seem possible. It can help us regain respect in the world which is crucial to fighting terrorism.

His ability to inspire and all the possibilities that inspiration raises is why I'm jumping into the fray and helping with his campaign.

New Inspiration and Personal Message to The Candidates

Christyl — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 01:55:22 EDT

I posted this on the Internet this evening (MySpace etc.). It was on my heart for hours. I hope it sums up how I feel and what people should do. The video of Senator Kennedy was embedded below.

"I don't normally jump on the band wagon with anyone or anything. I am a unique individual who has her own thoughts, morals, and strong faith. In my heart, I feel that the only path that can lead to the country we used to have, and one that we have dreamed of begins with voting on Election day.

This year is the first time I have --EVER-- voted in my ENTIRE life. I was so proud to turn in the registration at the Clerk's office downtown, and to walk into the Fire Dept and cast my vote for the Primary.

This is election is not the same as every other election. The reason I hadn't voted before was because it was the same ol' smart ass politician that didn't have a clue what was really going on. I thought that my vote didn't matter..but this time I really..REALLY feel in my heart it does.

It is REAL with people actually identifying with the problems that many of us have daily. Excuse my language, but I personally can smell bullshit a mile away, and I have analyzed; at times overanalyzed what is really going on here. It is real, and as an American you need to stand up and voice what you believe. This election will set the premise for the Government that will shape the way our children live and grow up as adults. It is our generation's time to stand up and make the difference we all used to talk about.

I know some of you may have been alive when President Kennedy was assassinated while others like myself learned about it in school and through our parents. It is imperative that you watch the video below and listen to Ted Kennedy give what will likely be one of the last great speeches he gives in this arena. He believes in Obama as he believed in his brothers. If that doesn't tell you something, I don't know what will.

I have never donated to a single campaign or even thought about voting. I donated to this campaign today because the people behind the Democratic side are real. They are speaking from their hearts and are almost just like one of us getting up there and running. They identify with us!! Finally someone has heard what the people living paycheck to paycheck have been screaming. I know they can't fix everything overnight..but at least they are giving it an HONEST shot; not just appearing to do so while lobbyist line their pockets.

If you want a sincere change, it is time to do something. You have to register to vote likely within the next 3 weeks or so to be eligible. If you are registered..GO DO WHAT IS RIGHT. Vote for a fresh real perspective on our country. That is what I see when I look at this Election....A true inspiration to do the RIGHT thing.

Watch the movie below. If you believe in what he says and are not scared of change..REPOST this video to your friends. Get the message out there so everyone knows what is really going on..""

A Personal Message To The Candidates

Just know that if your family had any doubts of whether you reached anyone this evening..you did. We were all in tears because it is so surreal to us that this magnitude of change could happen. Myself and many of my friends/family had basically given up on change because of the deep rut we as a country are in now. We had accepted that if it made common sense, the Government would do the exact opposite. We have now a renewed vision similar to what our parents had so long ago. The idea that if we do something it DOES matter and people will hear us...just as they have heard you.

This Democratic Ticket is a breathe of fresh air and of hope in what we all dreamed of. You all are doing the right thing, and because of that, God has put you here. Keep having faith and putting the struggle on him. Do not ever stray from what you believe in and stand for. Be who you are and please don't turn into the next President that "Washingtonified". You and your family are unique with very good hearts..and you need to reiterate the fact that you and your family won't change to suite people that pressure you. America with a backbone is what is needed.. I believe you will do just fine..

By the way..Michelle.. I can't remember a time when I have been more proud to be an adult woman with children in the United States then I was this evening. You knocked it out of the park and it would be an honor to have you as a First Lady representing all of us that know what really matters--our children.

and that is how the young lady from South-Central Indiana feels....

desert dan does it again

BRGHTSD1 HOPE & COURAGE — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 22:05:13 EDT

every day; we should give ourselves inspirations...Desert Dove Dan provides that over and over again.

I'm grateful!http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FnNHoX0VGBg

Independents for Obama

Jesse — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 08:58:56 EDT

I have been a supporter of Senator Obama since 2004. That year, I worked in the House of Representatives as the assistant chief clerk for the State of Alaska. It was a non-partisan position that allowed me to witness and document everything that happened on the floor of the House while it was in session. I was also able to attend many various committee meetings and witness the processes involved to enact a bill into law. I became very disillusioned with the two party system during this time. It seemed that the validity of a bill was not as important as what side of the aisle introduced it. There were a large number of these bills that got tabled just because of party politics. These bills were clearly beneficial to the constituents that the representatives served, but party politics was more important than doing what was right. This solidified my identifying myself as an independent. The legislative session ended in May 2004, and I came back home to Michigan to attend the Tomorrow's Political Leader's seminar at Michigan State University. I was the only independent that was involved with this program. There were many Democrats, Republicans and a few Greens. One of the guys at the seminar was working for Barack in his bid to become a US Senator from Illinois. He was so on fire for him that I just had to check him out. Needless to say, I was blown away. It isn't that Barack has these revolutionary ideas, or that what he was saying was anything entirely new. I was really impressed with his commitment to his community and his willingness to serve it. I feel that his vision is shared by most of this country, but he has stepped up to lead us towards the brighter future. Our government has a lack of true leadership...that is why I am so excited to support the leader that our country so badly needs. I am inspired by his ability to challenge me to do my part to improve my community, and I pray that his running for president will encourage other community leaders to run for office in their area. I feel that in order to have the sweeping change that will set our country back on the right course, we need to elect strong leaders on every level of government. No more hand-picked candidates that are promoted by the parties to serve the party interest. We need to get back to a true representational government where there are more than just two voices that are expressed and heard. I feel that electing Barack will start this trend and I am happy to support him.

Knowing a man...through his words

mtclymer — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 15:27:17 EDT

It’s a gloomy, rainy day here in Colorado today, which is infinitely better than the blazing hot 90s of last week. Still, the weather has affected my mood. Today, I’m just tired. Tired of attack ads, tired of the nastiness.

So for this week's post, I'm thinking on Barack Obama’s amazing ability to refine complex issues so that discussion and agreement is possible. The way he thinks and how he can express himself is unparalleled. The minute he started his speech at the Democratic National Convention in 2004, I knew he was something great. Obama’s oratory skills are sublime to be sure, but even just consider the words and how they say so much with so little, how they make things clear, even on complex issues and how they seem so reasonable, so practical.

I am happy to hear about Obama discussing and advocating compromise. I'm so tired of the agressive refusal to discuss and come to a reasonable solution. The willingness of partisan politics to win at whatever cost. To be terrified of agreeing with the other side.

I'm tired. So I go for inspiration today. I go to Obama's words. It is true you can know a man through his words.

I honor -- we honor -- the service of John McCain, and I respect his many accomplishments, even if he chooses to deny mine.

Barack Obama

Speech following Montana primary, June 3, 2008.

We've got a tragic history when it comes to race in this country. We've got a lot of pent-up anger and bitterness and misunderstanding. ... This country wants to move beyond these kinds of things.

Barack Obama

Speech on race, March 18, 2008.

This union may never be perfect, but generation after generation has shown that it can always be perfected.

Barack Obama

Speech on race, March 18, 2008.

We are the ones we have been waiting for.

Barack Obama

Speech following Super Tuesday results, Feb 5, 2008.

I did. It's not something that I'm proud of. It was a mistake as a young man, but you know? I mean not going to -- I never understood that line. The point was to inhale. That was the point.

Barack Obama

About his marajuana use, When asked "did you inhale?", November 2007.

In Africa, you often see that the difference between a village where everybody eats and a village where people starve is government. One has a functioning government, and the other does not. Which is why it bothers me when I hear people say that government is the enemy. They don't understand its fundamental role.

Barack Obama

Profile in The Independent Magazine, March 10, 2007.

There are patriots who opposed the war in Iraq and there are patriots who supported the war in Iraq. We are one people, all of us pledging allegiance to the stars and stripes, all of us defending the United States of America.

Barack Obama

Keynote speech to Democratic National Convention, July 2004.

There is not a liberal America and a conservative America - there is the United States of America. There is not a black America and a white America and latino America and asian America - there's the United States of America.

Barack Obama

Keynote speech to Democratic National Convention, July 2004.

In the end, that's what this election is about. Do we participate in a politics of cynicism or a politics of hope?

Barack Obama

Keynote speech to 2004 Democratic National Convention, standing as candidate for US Senate in Illinois.

We worship an awesome God in the Blue States, and we don't like federal agents poking around our libraries in the Red States. We coach Little League in the Blue States and have gay friends in the Red States.

Barack Obama

Keynote speech to Democratic National Convention, July 2004.

A good compromise, a good piece of legislation, is like a good sentence; or a good piece of music. Everybody can recognize it. They say, 'Huh. It works. It makes sense.

Barack Obama

I don't oppose all wars. What I am opposed to is a dumb war. What I am opposed to is a rash war.

Barack Obama

In 2002 speech against Iraq War.

My first job is to say thank you to those who voted me. Those who didn't, I'm going to get your vote next time.

Barack Obama

No one is pro-abortion.

Barack Obama

You know, my faith is one that admits some doubt.

Barack Obama

But challenging as they are its not the magnitude of our problems that concerns me the most, it is the smallness of our politics.

Barack Obama

As Americans, we can take enormous pride in the fact that courage has been inspired by our own struggle for freedom, by the tradition of democratic law secured by our forefathers and enshrined in our Constitution. It is a tradition that says all men are created equal under the law and that no one is above it.

Barack Obama

Yes, our greatness as a nation has depended on individual initiative, on a belief in the free market. But it has also depended on our sense of mutual regard for each other, of mutual responsibility. The idea that everybody has a stake in the country, that we're all in it together and everybody's got a shot at opportunity. Americans know this. We know that government can't solve all our problems - and we don't want it to. But we also know that there are some things we can't do on our own. We know that there are some things we do better together.

Barack Obama

That is the true genius of America, a faith in the simple dreams of its people, the insistence on small miracles. That we can say what we think, write what we think, without hearing a sudden knock on the door. That we can have an idea and start our own business without paying a bribe or hearing a sudden knock on the door. That we can participate in the political process without fear of retribution, and that our votes will be counted-or at least, most of the time.

Barack Obama

The issue of climate change is one that we ignore at our own peril. There may still be disputes about exactly how much we're contributing to the warming of the earth's atmosphere and how much is naturally occurring, but what we can be scientifically certain of is that our continued use of fossil fuels is pushing us to a point of no return. And unless we free ourselves from a dependence on these fossil fuels and chart a new course on energy in this country, we are condemning future generations to global catastrophe.

Barack Obama

I am running in this race because of what Dr. King called "the fierce urgency of now." Because I believe that there's such a thing as being too late. And that hour is almost upon us.

Barack Obama

We need to steer clear of this poverty of ambition, where people want to drive fancy cars and wear nice clothes and live in nice apartments but don't want to work hard to accomplish these things. Everyone should try to realize their full potential.

Barack Obama

I always believe that ultimately, if people are paying attention, then we get good government and good leadership. And when we get lazy, as a democracy and civically start taking shortcuts, then it results in bad government and politics.

Barack Obama

You know, there's a lot of talk in this country about the federal deficit. But I think we should talk more about our empathy deficit - the ability to put ourselves in someone else's shoes; to see the world through the eyes of those who are different from us – the child who's hungry, the steelworker who's been laid-off, the family who lost the entire life they built together when the storm came to town. When you think like this – when you choose to broaden your ambit of concern and empathize with the plight of others, whether they are close friends or distant strangers – it becomes harder not to act; harder not to help.

Barack Obama

The country is not as polarized as our politics would suggest.

Barack Obama

Most people who serve in Washington have been trained either as lawyers or as political operatives – professions that tend to place a premium on winning arguments rather than solving problems.

Barack Obama

In an interconnected world, the defeat of international terrorism – and most importantly, the prevention of these terrorist organizations from obtaining weapons of mass destruction -- will require the cooperation of many nations. We must always reserve the right to strike unilaterally at terrorists wherever they may exist. But we should know that our success in doing so is enhanced by engaging our allies so that we receive the crucial diplomatic, military, intelligence, and financial support that can lighten our load and add legitimacy to our actions. This means talking to our friends and, at times, even our enemies.

Barack Obama

Our enemies are fully aware that they can use oil as a weapon against America . And if we don't take this threat as seriously as the bombs they build or the guns they buy, we will be fighting the War on Terror with one hand tied behind our back.

Barack Obama

Politics has become so bitter and partisan, so gummed up by money and influence, that we can't tackle the big problems that demand solutions. And that's what we have to change first. We have to change our politics, and come together around our common interests and concerns as Americans.

Barack Obama

Grassroots Change (We Can Believe In) vs Fundraising

Karl — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 18:21:40 EDT

Anyone else getting disillusioned by the constant emails from the Obama campaign asking for more donations - and yet not really communicating anything of value to us?

Combined with the unspecific campaign rhetoric, Senator Obama's earlier John Kennedy-like inspiration has evolved into very nearly politics as usual.

Wouldn't it be nice to get a message from the campaign that had nothing but substance in it - and no request for money?

Music for the Campaign

Kevin from Hillsboro Oregon — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 21:51:02 EDT

In June of last year, my son and I attended the release concert for Darrell Grant's Truth and Reconciliation CD in Portland Oregon.The CD is a marvelous expression of the power of hope and vision to bring about change in our lives and world.Two songs in particular were very meaningful for me.They spoke directly to the mess our country is in after two terms of poor leadership in our administration.More accurately, they demonstrated what true wise leadership looks like, and could be if we made different choices.The song "When I See the Water" seems to resonate strongly with this campaign.I strongly feel that these words have the power to influence a change in people's hearts. They are so important at this point in our nations history.

When I See the Water

Callin' out the truth for all to hear, People, time to put away your fear. People say they want the world to change, Could it be they do not wish to know, That this world ain't like a TV show. Pouring out its wisdom all around, They will see what man can truly be When you gonna change your heart of stone?, All that really matters is some human understanding, It' been so long, so long.

I Shall Believe

J. F. K. quote -- Let the word go forth from this time and place, to friend and foe alike, that the torch has been passed to a new generation of Americans born in this century, tempered by war, disciplined by a hard and bitter peace, proud of our ancient heritage, and unwilling to witness or permit the slow undoing of those human rights to which this nation has always been committed, and to which we are committed today at home and around the world.
M. L. K. quote -- With this faith we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope. With this faith we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood.

Resolution Of Love

Franklin Roosevelt quote -- Since the beginning of our American history, we have been engaged in change -- in a perpetual peaceful revolution -- a revolution which goes on steadily, quietly adjusting itself to changing conditions -- without the concentration camp or the quick-lime in the ditch. The world order which we seek is the cooperation of free countries, working together in a friendly, civilized society.

In Darrell's own words

The Truth and Reconciliation Project is an expression of my larger vision of using music as a tool for positive change. It began with a personal mission statement:
I choose to believe in the power of humans to change the world. Art is the substance of our dreams and the medium through which resonates our most fervent hopes, highest aspirations, deepest truths, and most profound experiences. Those who create art possess a consequent extraordinary power to communicate, inspire, provoke, inform and to move others to transform society and themselves, and we bear the responsibility to use this power to affect positive change in our communities and the world.
My hope is that the music documented on the recording Truth and Reconciliation will serve as a vehicle through which to pursue this mission and encourage others to do the same.

http://www.darrellgrant.com/truth_and_reconciliation_project

The opportunity to choose a wise, compassionate leader

nerodha — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 13:48:51 EDT

I believe this country has been given a tremendous gift: the opportunity to choose an intelligent, wise, compassionate leader. These chances only come around from time to time and represent the potential for a true shift in society towards more positive and life-affirming ways of existing.

To be honest I don't know much about Senator Obama. I've been overseas the last couple of years, don't consume much media and I've never been politically oriented (never until now been inspired to participate). But I am positivity oriented, and I believe the Obama campaign can play an important role in furthering certain positive tendencies that seem to be gathering momentum in our world through values such as integrity, transparency and responsibility.

20 Favourite Inspirational Quotes. What's Yours?

Ms CYPRAH — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 18:56:48 EDT

20. The only people who find what they are looking for in life are the fault finders. (Foster’s Law)

19. Great minds discuss ideas.  Average minds discuss events . Small minds discuss people. ( Eleanor Roosevelt)

18. Thee world is full of willing people, some willing to work, the rest willing to let them. (Robert Lee Frost)

17. Losers visualize the penalties of failure. Winners visualize the rewards of success.  (Unknown)

16. If you want to test your memory, try to recall what you were worrying about one year ago today.  (E. Joseph Cossman)

15. You can get everything in life you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want.  (Zig Ziglar)

14. The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong. (Gandhi)

13. Appreciation is a wonderful thing: It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well. (Voltaire)

12. A happy person is not a person in a certain set of circumstances, but rather a person with a certain set of attitudes.  (Hugh Downs)

11. Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds. (Einstein)

10. We see things not as they are, but as we are.  (H. M. Tomlinson)

9. What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us. (Emerson)

8. The man who removes a mountain begins by carrying away small stones.  (Chinese Proverb)

7. Do not worry if you have built your castles in the air. They are where they should be. Now put the foundations under them. (Thoreau)

6. Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself.  (Leo Tolstoy)

5. What you do speaks so loudly that I cannot hear what you say. (Emerson)

4. An eye for eye only ends up making the whole world blind. (Gandhi)

3. Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right on both counts.  (Henry Ford)

2. Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great. (Mark Twain)

1. Man is the product of his thoughts. What he thinks, he becomes. (Gandhi)

Unite For Change House Party

Megan Brennan — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 22:03:46 EDT

Yesterday I attended a Unite For Change house party hosted by a wonderful family in Naperville, IL. It was such an amazing personal experience for me and I met some inspiring, thoughtful, smart and intelligent people. It was a melting pot of sorts and I feel even more motivated now than I did before! We can do this! Me can move past the ignorance and the hatred and show people that this country CAN and WILL recover from the devastation we've suffered for the past 8 years!

Inspired to action ...

Garbl — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 17:21:25 EDT

On Friday, I finished reading Obama's book, The Audacity of Hope, and today I attended an Obama Unity house meeting in West Seattle. Together they've inspired me more to work actively for Obama's essential election as president.

I've gotten tired of critics, including some Democratics, who question Obama's credentials. But what I've learned through reading his book and by listening to people who knew who his community- organizing work in Chicago, Obama is no mere beginner who's just a fine speaker. He has walked the walk as well as talked the talk. Through experience, he knows how to lead and inspire people to action, to helping improve their condition and the condition of others.

Beaverton Farmer's Market, Oregon - Tabling Event - Volunteer Opportunity

RhOrdway — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 15:10:46 EDT

Beaverton Farmer's Market in downtown Beaverton, Oregon

Every Saturday throughout the summer, so we're going to need more volunteers! It is a fun, easy, and rewarding way to show your support for Barack Obama. Regina has put a lot of time, money, and energy into this project, and she would love to continue spreading the "Change We Can Believe In" with you. Please help her out by volunteering a couple hours of your Saturday Morning.

Please contact regi49@msn.com or pmckean@willamette.edu for more details.

Inspiration Hits Home

Cyndi Edwards — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 10:19:03 EDT

Mr. Obama has inspired me to follow a long held dream of mine which I never really thought I'd have the courage to pursue -- to hold public office. Yesterday, I filed papers with the PBC Supervisor of Elections to run for Democratic Precinct Committeeperson for my precinct. OK - so it isn't a major (or even medial) public office, but for me it was a big step. So hopefully, I will be the Florida's next Democractic Committeeperson for Precinct 3104 (side note: I don't like the terms Committeeman and Committeewoman - but that's just me).

I'm actually hoping someone runs against me so that I will get to see my name on the ballot and will be able to campaign. I know that also means I could lose, but it is exciting either way.

The Least Typical Obama Supporter

ObamaBob NSB — Sun, 08 Jun 2008 18:05:44 EDT

This explains in short order why so many of us support Senator Obama:

Crossing Over to Support Barackby Amanda ScottSunday, June 08, 2008 at 04:26 PMBarack has said many times that men and women across the county come up to him and tell him, often in hushed voices, that even though they are Republicans, they are voting for him. And this November will be no different.

New York Times best selling author Frank Schaeffer recently wrote an article at the Huffington Post explaining why, as a lifelong Republican, he will be voting for Barack in the General Election:

This is a great day for those of us who have been fighting for Senator Obama! I'm a good example of why he'll win in November. I'm the least typical Obama supporter. And there are many more like me.

I cut my political teeth in the seventies through the early eighties as an organizer in the antiabortion religious right. I'm a fifty-five year old white man who has been a conservative most of my life. I've been a Republican activist who campaigned for McCain in 2000. I'm a big fan of the military. My son served in the Marines. If Obama can reach me he can reach anyone.

...As I see it our choice is between a heroic old man whose time has long past and who will perpetuate failed policy, and a brilliant, openhearted new founding father of the new post-racial, post-divided America the likes of which we have not seen.

...Obama touches me. He has a prophetic authenticity that reminds me of W.E.B. Du Bois' prayers that Du Bois sometimes wrote for his students. Obama also brings a touch of Billy Graham with him to the podium. His is a deeply spiritual call. And his critics that have dismissed Obama's ability to inspire as "mere words" are dead wrong.

We have never needed inspiration more. And we have never needed a president to inspire the rest of the world more. Every international opinion poll shows that Obama is not only the most popular American leader, perhaps ever, but more popular than any other world leader today.

The general election will be a tough fight, but with your support, we can spread Barack's message to all Americans.

Watch This Video

Sucker — Sun, 08 Jun 2008 08:52:13 EDT

I'm a Kossack. This is a great diary. Enjoy! :)

http://www.dailykos.com/story/2008/6/7/233541/1086/910/532016

A MOVEMENT !

Omar — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 14:52:37 EDT

It is not a presidential campaign anymore but a movement. Now, we have a chance to make a dream come true. It is the dream that has been silenced by death over and over again but a dream that will never die in the hearts and minds of all people around the world. A movement towards peace, equality, prosperity and a better future.

I don't think I'm even a statistic anymore

RSCME — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 08:59:41 EDT

After a year of being unemployed, and after 6 months without an unemployment check, and now my town's General Assistance benefits have been cut off, where do I fit in to the big picutre?

I'm not on anybody's "list". I'm included in the unemployment figures because I am not receiving benefits.

Jobs are so difficult to come by, especially in Maine where the economy was suffering long before the nation as a whole was in recession. I have a lot of friends who are either unemployed or underemployed and we are all just trying to survive everyday. And I mean basic survival life food, gas, electricity. Is anybody out there listening? Does anybody care?

I hope that Barack Obama is listening and that Barack Obama cares. I have put my faith and trust in him. The problem is it will be many, many months before Barack would take office if he wins, and even longer before any changes can be made that would affect me....and my friends.

I am trying to remain positive. Barack has, at least, given me hope and given me a reason to keep trying, to keep going forward, to keep getting up every morning and trying to survive another day.

Inspiration

Andrea from Chandler, AZ — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 22:26:37 EDT

Inspiration.

In one word, this is why Barack Obama has my vote. No one can disagree that he moves people, he doesn’t give us hope in America; instead he reaffirms the hope that has taken a back seat to pessimism in our government. He doesn’t tell us that he will change America; he tells us that WE can change America. Make no mistake; it will be extremely difficult to reverse decades of lobbyist influence, foreign policy that has turned much of the world against us, and climate damage caused primarily by the Age of Industrialization.

We all have something to complain about, whether it be fuel prices, corporate greed, lobbyist policy, homelessness, the list goes on and on. How do you propose a change? Most I’ve talked to refer to a revolt, and in that, I get really agitated. How would Americans revolt? And better yet, after decades of overindulgence, apathy, an incorrect opinion that we are inherently better than the rest of the world, and the most pathetic display of family values and child rearing even seen in human history, what right do we have to even be angry? We are the cause, folks, and now we bitch about the result. Honestly, if you didn’t see every bit of our social problems coming, you are an idiot. Turn off the damn TV, whether your news comes from FOX or CNN, get away from the Wolf Blitzers and the Hannity and Colmes’ and understand that they are hired to make money for the network. They will spin the issues until you’ve lost sight of what those issues are. So, back to the issues:

Bring up Barack Obama. com

Barack Obama's Plan
Washington Lobbying
• Centralize Ethics and Lobbying Information for Voters: Obama will create a centralized Internet database of lobbying reports, ethics records, and campaign finance filings in a searchable, sortable and downloadable format.
• Require Independent Monitoring of Lobbying Laws and Ethics Rules: Obama will use the power of the presidency to fight for an independent watchdog agency to oversee the investigation of congressional ethics violations so that the public can be assured that ethics complaints will be investigated.
• Support Campaign Finance Reform: Obama supports public financing of campaigns combined with free television and radio time as a way to reduce the influence of moneyed special interests. Obama introduced public financing legislation in the Illinois State Senate, and is the only 2008 candidate to have sponsored Senator Russ Feingold's (D-WI) tough bill to reform the presidential public financing system.
• Create a Public “Contracts and Influence” Database: As president, Obama will create a "contracts and influence" database that will disclose how much federal contractors spend on lobbying, and what contracts they are getting and how well they complete them.
• Expose Special Interest Tax Breaks to Public Scrutiny: Barack Obama will ensure that any tax breaks for corporate recipients — or tax earmarks — are also publicly available on the Internet in an easily searchable format.
• End Abuse of No-Bid Contracts: Barack Obama will end abuse of no-bid contracts by requiring that nearly all contract orders over $25,000 be competitively awarded.
• Sunlight Before Signing: Too often bills are rushed through Congress and to the president before the public has the opportunity to review them. As president, Obama will not sign any non-emergency bill without giving the American public an opportunity to review and comment on the White House website for five days.
• Shine Light on Earmarks and Pork Barrel Spending: Obama's Transparency and Integrity in Earmarks Act will shed light on all earmarks by disclosing the name of the legislator who asked for each earmark, along with a written justification, 72 hours before they can be approved by the full Senate.
Now, will that automatically reform our Government. Hell, no. But it is my hope that we will, and that Obama is the candidate that will back the American vote in 2010 for candidates that don’t take lobbyist money. But again, you see, it’s up to us to read the records, check the database, educate ourselves just a little bit more. You may miss an episode of American Idol. If that’s the price of reasserting ourselves as the backbone of our government, it’s a pretty damn small price to pay, in my opinion.
Obama will get hell from this in both the House and the Senate, because let’s face it, they like being well kept. But if the American people can rally behind him, if we can be inspired to get off our asses and get involved in our governments, I believe that each one of these ideas are attainable.

Want to know McCain’s plans? His site is www. johnmccain. com
On the same issue, he says
America deserves and demands a government that serves the country, not itself. Most people believe that elected leaders are more interested in the perks and privileges of office than in public service, and that too often the special interest lobbyists with the fattest wallets and best access carry the day when issues of public policy are being decided.

John McCain has fought the good fight against the practices that alienate the public from their elected leaders. He has fought for public disclosure of those who lobby lawmakers for a living, and to prohibit them from providing gifts to elected officials.

He has fought for greater transparency regarding the official activities of lobbyists, disclosure of those who arrange for lawmakers' travel, and require members to pay full charter rates when using corporate aircraft.

He has fought the "revolving door" by which lawmakers and other influential officials leave their posts and become lobbyists for the special interests they have aided.

He has fought for an independent ethics office in Congress to help restore the public's faith in the integrity of the legislative branch.

Democracy is Not for Sale

The American people have been alienated from the process of self-government by the overwhelming appearance of their elected leaders having sold-out to the big-moneyed special interests who help finance political campaigns.

As John McCain has said, "Americans believe that political representation is measured on a sliding scale. The more you give the more effectively you can petition your government." It is no coincidence that the most influential lobbyists with the greatest access in the nation's Capitol are also the most prolific political fundraisers, and that incumbents attract money in far greater volumes than most challengers.

Most Americans understand that competitive elections in a free country require money. Since campaigns require spending funds to communicate with voters, they know we can never take money completely out of politics, nor should we. Americans have a right to support the candidates and the parties they endorse, including financially if they so choose.

But what most Americans worry about profoundly is corporations or individuals with huge checks seeking the undue influence on lawmakers that such largesse is intended to purchase. That is why John McCain has fought to enforce long-standing prohibitions on corporate and union contributions to federal political parties, for sensible donation limits, disclosure of how candidates and campaigns are funded, and the diligent enforcement of these common sense rules that promote maximum public participation in the political process and limit opportunities for corruption.

John McCain understands that in America the people are sovereign, and deserve a political process worthy of the sacrifices that have been made by so many to keep us free and proud. As President, John McCain will see to it that the institutions of self-government are respected pillars of democracy, not commodities to be bought, bartered, or abused.
His ideas are good, but in my opinion, largely what we’ve tried before and have found ineffective at this time.

Young women do not need the example of Hillary on the ticket

Martin Edwin "Mick" from Churchton, MD — Tue, 27 May 2008 00:32:51 EDT

It is truly sad to watch Sen. Clinton continuing to insist on cheapening her own political brand by the kind of tawdry prevarication that characterized her husband.

I do not worry that my two daughters will never see a woman as president (they will).

I would much more worry if Hillary's example was validated by the American public as a role model for young people, boys and girls.

Comment on Hillary

time4peace — Sat, 24 May 2008 08:17:53 EDT

I believe we have survived almost 8 years of a president who could not face reality and see the truth - our own "emperor with no clothes." We do not need another one. Hillary is in her own world and cannot face the fact that America is not falling at her feet.

We need new energy, beliefs, inspiration, and leadership. Obama can bring these qualities to our country - This UNITED States of America.

Witness

Bettina — Wed, 21 May 2008 18:42:27 EDT

I can't find words to accurately describe what I felt when I found out Barack was coming to Tampa.

Over the months, it has been mesmerizing to turn on the TV, day after day, hearing clips of a great orator as he traveled the country but at the same time, frustrating, knowing that I may never have the opportunity to hear him live.

It has been inspiring to watch his supporters grow in numbers, state after state, and at the same time left me feeling hollow because Florida 'didn't count.' It was kind of like being the only kid in the class that didn't get invited to the popular kid's party.

Regardless of Florida's misfortune, I followed, cheered, cried and yelled at the TV, like an armchair quarterback watching his/her team on the road to the super bowl....knowing that a loss would be detrimental to our country. I've resorted to nail biting through the turmoil of 'Wright-gate', 'Bitter-gate' and all the other pointless attacks on a man who is not your typical politician. My nubs reflect the stress of millions of citizens who seek a better America. Will they beat him down until he can't get up? Can he wash off the mud and slime that has been dumped on him? Are there enough dreamers and doers to achieve our common goal? The goal of ending a war; of affordable healthcare for all; of educational opportunity for all; but mostly, the goal of uniting this damaged country and making America great again. Is it really possible? Obama's message rings loud and clear, 'yes we can.'

Today I had an opportunity and I pounced on it. I heard Barack Obama speak live. More than that, however, I got to introduce my 14 year old daughter to a new generation of politics. I savored the moment...watching her, watching and listening to him. What impact this experience will have on her future is a story that will unfold from this day forward. To her and others her age, my dream is that taking the high road will become the status quo for politicians in the future. Obama's campaign is proof of its effectiveness. Perhaps those of my daughter's generation will say that this is the level of politics we will adhere to when it's our turn to be in charge. Politics is for everyone, not just a few. It's an exciting prospect. This is an exciting time. We are making history and I am a witness.

DESIDERATA

N. Julio Barthson - E-Campaign Leader — Thu, 15 May 2008 12:17:55 EDT

Some everlasting words of inspiration...

MSM huffed and they puffed but the couldn't blow Barack's house down!

CorpusMama — Wed, 07 May 2008 10:02:27 EDT

Finally.

I have been writing ABC, CNN, Lou Slob, MSNBC for weeks. I kept telling them by feeding on tabloid stories, not public policy issues they were making themselves irrelevent.

Finally last night I was proven right. Who'd have thunk after listening to 3 solid weeks of 24/7 Barack bashing, except for Keith Olbermann that Barack Obama has any chance of even coming close to any kind of victory last night?

Well, thank you Tarheels. Thank you Indiana. I believe if it wasn't for the Limbaugh effect Hillary would have lost Indiana last night.

We were victorious. We made it happen. MSM crowned Hillary frontrunner in February but we found our voice through Barack Obama.

My Barack Obama gear is on back order and when I bought it, I thought I might not need it by the time it came.

Thankfully, I'll be waiting for it by the door. As we wait for the convention.

In your face, you big bad Wolf Blitzer!

Yes We Can!!!

Need a Boost?

Marcia--One who believes in Dreams! — Tue, 06 May 2008 11:22:16 EDT

If you need a boost of spirit, go to this inspirational site supporting Barack Obama. http://www.theobamageneration.com/ I read through some of the posts here and then had the courage to make calls to Indiana (I have made calls to other states even though cold-calling is outside of my comfort zone and for some reason this time I just couldn't bring myself to pick up the phone). I'm very thankful I did because I now feel that I at least did my part. BTW...a must read is the "Letter to Greg"! Obama '08, Yes We Can!!

28.04.08 - Every Vote Counts

Kris — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 01:36:27 EDT

Well here we are, just over a week away from the primaries in Indiana and North Carolina. Never thought I'd see the day when North Carolina would become a crucial state during an election year. But then they're all important, right? One-Stop Early Voting ends in five days here; I actually encouraged one of my fellow co-workers to get to the polls and vote for Obama while we could still vote early. Hopefully, I may convince another to go before the week is over -- I'm constantly talking about Audacity of Hope, Obama's platform, and how his message inspires me. Heck, I even won my mother over, who initially supported HRC! It felt good -- no, even better, it felt amazing -- to go to my county's board of elections and vote for Obama. It wasn't nerves that had my heart pounding, it was the knowledge that I was making a real difference.

For anyone in the Tar Heel state who has yet to endorse Obama -- 1-888-NC-EARLY-- find your closest voting location and raise your voice for change!

YES WE CAN!!!!!!!!!

The Value of Inspiration to a President Leading a Country During Crisis...

Julie Hensley — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 18:21:14 EDT

Ok, this bitch4obama (my title on another blog I have... after Tina Fey did her SNL skit and Hillary started lying I realized I needed to reclaim 'the term') just realized the necessary ingredient to a great Presidency.

Bet you are on the edge of your seat, aren't you?

Well, it's the ability to inspire. Take a moment and consider every President that is considered great - by you and society. Their programs and accomplishments were likely powerful and maybe even revolutionary but they only way they got them all done was because they were propelled by the people. The people that they had influenced and inspired.

The Greatest Generation was inspired by FDR. During a struggle out of the Depression and into WWII, they listened to this trusted advisor via fireside chats and embraced his suggestions. Congress was not always so agreeable and it was the demands and expectation of the people that ultimately got alot of his early programs through. When he asked women to work. They did. When he asked men to go to war, they did. When he asked the people at home to grow Victory Gardens they did. His efforts were so inspirational that the posters and images of the era have now become part of the icons of our patriotism Uncle Sam saying "I Want You" and Rosie the Riveter displaying her bicep..

Washington, Father of a Country, but only because his inspiration and leadership propelled a rag tag, sick, ill-fed, ill-equipped and out numbered force to victory on the battlefield against the country that may have been the greatest military force on the planet at the time.

Lincoln, unlike his predecessor Buchanan (probably the most experienced and most 'qualified' man ever elected to the office also the President until recently anyway, considered the worst President in the history of our country), did not possess an illustrious resume' of experience or a career around people who knew how to get things done in Washington. He surrounded himself with a cabinet of those who had opposed him in his campaign to President and yet, he inspired them and lead them. His lack of experience did not stand in his way as he quickly learned on the job, making some mistakes but only once. He self-deprecating manner charmed the soldiers who met him and his words inspired everyone. Today, as a result, we are the United States of America and our social conscience is free of the stain of racial slavery since. His ability to unite disparity became evident as his cabinet and their effectiveness almost instantly dissolved upon his assasination. Reconstruction did not proceed as Lincoln planned and the following two Administrations were plagued with infighting and corruption.

John F. Kennedy was faced with several crises including the Cuban Missile Crisis. His mistakes with Vietnam might not have been as apparent if he had lived to fulfill whatever his intent may have been. Based on the ubiquitious quality and resonance of his quotes even today, there is little question that the charming young Catholic (people at the time doubted a Catholic, much less a Yankee could be elected just as they doubt a black man or woman could be elected now) Senator (and we have very very few Presidents that were Senators we prefer to elect Governors) from Massachusetts inspired us. How could we question that? The most common reference to his administration was Camelot.

So what does this mean? All we need is inspiration and challenge. It could be that simple. What if even an otherwise mediocre candidate for President was inspirational? Perhaps in the face of challenge and hope, people followed their inspiring leader and thus together lifted themselves, their effort and that Administration to greatness.

It seems far to simple a recipe... and yet, our worst Presidents number among those who were accomplished, educated men of great advantage who did not inspire. Perhaps the weakest Administration is one that has an apathetic or hopeless population to lead?

No doubt, some would argue for the inclusion of other Presidents - Teddy Roosevelt (he's on Mount Rushmore after all) as is Jefferson, and perhaps they were inspirational and the crises they led the country through just pale relative to others. Certainly most would agree that Teddy was colorful and charming, presuming you weren't his enemy! Reagan, Clinton and Jackson might also be included by some, but while they were charming and effective at campaigning there is little evidence that the inspired the kind of activity in the population during their Administration that the ones we use as examples uphold. Perhaps it was simply a matter of opportunity, without serious challenge to peace, prosperity and sovreignty, maybe the population doesn't even listen closely enough to the rambling of Washington to be inspired.

Regardless, I think all would agree that these times present a myriad and magnitude of challenge that may not have been faced since the founding of our country. Never have so many stood to lose so much because of the decisions made in Washington. Never before has inspirational leadership, the kind of leadership that will compel people to be part of the change been so critical. I will continue in the vein that I think all would agree that the only nominee possessing that level of inspirational ability to cross racial, ethnic, gender lines to unite our nation as a community is Barack Obama. Yes, I am sure that Clinton and McCain inspire their supporters but even so, those supporters are not propelling their campaigns with the energy, joy and fire that Obama commands.

Please Match My First Time 25 Dollar Obama Donation!!!

allisonberryart — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 05:06:43 EDT

DIGG THIS: Please Match My First Time $25 Obama Donation!!!

I DID IT!!!

I donated money to a political campaign for the FIRST TIME in my life!!!

I just gave $25 to support BARACK OBAMA and this campaign... I know it's not a lot, but it's all that I can afford. I donated this money because I have been so deeply inspired and motivated to action by Senator Obama's message of HOPE AND CHANGE!!! Tonight I have decided that I can no longer afford to sit on the sidelines...

I MUST BECOME INVOLVED!!!

I MUST ACTIVELY BECOME PART OF THIS MOVEMENT FOR CHANGE!!!

THE TIME FOR ME TO BECOME AN ADVOCATE OF CHANGE IS RIGHT NOW!!!

Show your support for Barack Obama!!!

PLEASE MATCH MY FIRST TIME $25 OBAMA DONATION!!!

PLEASE DONATE NOW!!!

DIGG THIS: Please Match My First Time $25 Obama Donation!!!

Don't Give Into Cynicism When Your Country Needs You the Most

DRS — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 21:15:42 EDT

I know I may seem naive, but it makes me sad to see so many Americans of all ages and backgrounds become so cynical over the last eight years. I understand why. I have become cynical over the years about our government as well, and it worried me to see that even my 18 year-old son, Ben, seemed to become cynical and pessimistic about his future. This was true, that is, until Barack Obama. I have seen my son light up and care about not just his future, but also the futures of other people. I have watched as he has volunteered and sacrificed time because Obama made him believe that he could make a difference in the world. I've watched him walk up to total strangers and talk to them about their concerns and their problems while also telling them why he believes in Barack Obama. Instead of playing video games, he spent 6 hours over his spring break registering voters at Wal-Mart and walking door to door talking to people. This is a pretty amazing thing for an 18 year-old, and I am very, very proud of him for this. I know I wasn't doing any such thing when I was 18. Even my 14 year-old, Darcy, proudly wears her Obama t-shirts to school and argues her point of view with guys that my husband plays basketball with. She takes heat at school for having an unpopular point of view (we live in a very conservative area - Dan Burton territory), but she stands up for what she believes in. Why? Because she has also been inspired to believe that she can make a difference. How can this possibly be anything but good for this country?

Before you give in completely to that much justified cynicism, please take some time to listen to this video of Michelle Obama talking in Pennsylvania. The video is in 2 parts - #7 and #8 at this site, and it takes a while to listen to the whole thing, but it is pretty inspiring and well worth listening to. http://ObamaPodcast.blogspot.com Trust me when I say that the Obamas are truly good people with the best intentions for their country. I don't know how all of this inspiration has been turned into a bad thing, but I'm truly grateful to have been part of this experience no matter what happens. It has made me believe again that we can all make a difference if we try. Of course, I don't know how I will feel if the same old political attack machines and the media end up succeeding in tearing Obama down, but I cling to the hope that someone like Barack Obama can actually overcome all of this and convince average Americans to stand up against special interests, corporations, and millionaires to say that we will no longer allow ourselves to be manipulated or divided. None of this is going to be easy, and I admit that it is not realistic to think that all of the change that Obama promises will happen any time soon. But for now, this is the most optimistic I've been about our future in a long time, and that is good enough for me.

RIGHT NOW!

BRGHTSD1 HOPE & COURAGE — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 02:10:30 EDT

That Dessert Rat Dan is some kind of genius movie makin' man!

Try this on if you need inspiration...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-CBzxtbemrc

The Job Interview

Common Sense for Obama — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 01:47:49 EDT

If you were hiring a president using the same “cheesy” interviewing template you were taught in college, who would you hire?

My business career planning class preached the STAR analysis. When asked about the experience that qualifies you for the job, you better be able to name a significant Situation in your repertoire that you can be gauged on, identify the Task you were charged with, point to the Action you took to accomplish the task and the ultimate Result of your efforts.

Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton would certainly point to running their presidential campaigns as the biggest thing they’ve ever managed.

Obama crafted and has thus far stuck to a single message of change that has resonated across America and propelled him throughout the campaign to unprecedented political success and certified rock star status. He has raised a record amount of cash, inspired throngs of adoring young people to rise out of the political woodworks to reclaim their politics and built the broadest coalition of electoral support in the process. Barack has shamelessly chosen to earn this nomination the old fashioned way… winning the most states, the most delegates, the most votes and generating the most enthusiasm. By taking major controversies and criticisms head-on without resorting to the same old Washington politics of spin, he has proved that politicians don't have to choose between telling the truth and winning. Obama's cool, collected, stellar performance under fire provides great insight into the kind of commander-in-chief he would be. He’s even been known to give a good speech.

Hillary has pushed out multiple rationales for why she should be hired. First, she was Clinton the inevitable. Then she became Hillary I-have-the-most-experience-how-dare-you-question-me Clinton. It didn’t work so she tried to weave change into experience. As of yesterday, she was still searching for a single unified message to define herself. The Clinton campaign has been such an unbelievable train wreck of a managed vessel that it’s been in self-destruct mode since the first ballot was cast. They ran out of money once, authored some of the most disingenuous logic-deficient and common sense-defying caricatures of opponents, and can’t even decide on a single definition of victory. Hillary has brazenly fabricated and sexed up stories in an apparent attempt to pad her resume when simply telling the truth would have sufficed because she’s accomplished a lot in her career. By all accounts, she’s chosen to surround herself with loyalists with little regard for competence as it applies to strategy. That's why her current path to the nomination, by her own account, is mostly independent of her own popular appeal and has been outsourced to superdelegates.

Again, if you had Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama sitting across from you in your corner office, who would you hire?

Share Your Obama Tunes!

Marla Turner — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 19:54:37 EDT

Energy and creativity abound in this campaign! We have all been inspired by the words of Barack Obama as well as eachother. Seems like I'm always running into a new video, song, poem, blog, etc. created by people who have been moved to express their support for Obama in an artistic form and I'm telling you, it thrills me. I love all of it (even the silly ones, like....oh never mind...well, you can probably figure it out anyway).

Perspective

Woolley — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 15:30:30 EDT

As posted on http://obamalanduk.blogspot.com 8 April 2008

Today I had the pleasure of seeing my first official event... of the Clinton campaign. Chelsea Clinton spoke at the student union of the University of Southern Indiana. And the result was fascinating.

The event was staged as a "town hall" setup. That is, it was a somewhat intimate setting, with a strong focus on questions from the audience. As there is more of a direct conversation with the community, there is generally less fanfare than one finds in a rally. Furthermore, this setup lends itself to policy oriented discussions, partly to avoid unplanned political maneuvers. In this respect, Chelsea shone brilliantly. She showed a mastership of the issues at hand, including specific policy knowledge, relevant statistics, and an ability to put her words into perspective. After seeing Chelsea today, I was impressed by an obviously well-educated, bright person. Furthermore, I was left with the impression that a Hillary administration would be well grounded in strong policy decisions.

Unfortunately, good policy does not necessarily lead to good governance. In order to rule in our democracy, one must not only make good decisions but lead people into action as well. This sense of greater perspective is what lacks in the Clinton campaign (I'm not sure most people have a good sense of why Hillary even wants to be president). And this perspective was lacking in Chelsea's demeanor as well. There was no overwhelming theme framing the Chelsea's articulate responses, except a familiarity with mundane details.

Furthermore, this lack of perspective was made all the more apparent by the elephant in the room. Barack Obama's campaign for change, which has also displayed credibility on the policy level, has consistently portrayed a message of urgency and inspiration. Obama's ability to consistently relate his policy stance back to the fundamentals of American democracy taps into a deeper sense of patriotism and humanity. This uniting element blatantly contrasts with a consistently lackluster, yet competent, performance from the Clinton campaign.

On that note, registration for voting in the Indiana primary ended yesterday. Obama's registration drive resulted in 50,000 new voters, roughly 5% of the projected vote. In Evansville, we registered roughly 4,000, while the local Clinton campaign does not claim to have registered any.

Feeling Good!

Mary from Vermont — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 18:40:50 EDT

I'm very excited to say that a small group of women in Vermont just sent close to 300 post cards to undecided women voters in PA. I wrote 85 myself and if I'd had more time I could have done more. I ask myself every day, what can I do to help Senator Obama win the nomination and ultimately the Presidency?

Reading your blogs is certainly fuel for the fire. I love this community.

Thanks,

Mary

Ps 27

BENTON GRIMMETT — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 09:48:47 EDT

1 The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

vent. cry. rest. recoup. re-inspire. RENEW for SPRING...

jensmiles — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 13:23:33 EDT

So much to say after yesterday Texas County Conventions. I attended mine and will soon post a full blog comment...but this is what I sent my fellow local Texans and thought you might be in need of some RENEWED inspiration too..

Dear Texas Democrats:

We should all take 2 days. Take some well deserved rest for everyone, take a nice long shower and wash off the disappointments, lost opportunities, mistakes, and frustrations of March. Rest our weary eyes from computer reading and late nights. Rest our weary voices from phone calling, screaming to be heard, and talking with new friends. Rest our minds from holding in our frustrations and anger in the name of solidarity, from trying to wrap any logic around a complex system of democracy Texas-style, from feeding our paranoia both unfounded and confirmed.

Watch this. http://www.youtube.com/user/AkinScribe5 Have good cry. I did.And it helped me remembered WHY I bothered to show up March 4th or yesterday. Why I decided to ANSWER my call...

See you in APRIL. It is officially SPRING. Silly season CAN be over. The SPRING of DEMOCRATS United for Obama can BEGIN!

~ jensmiles

Denton County TX Precinct 216 Senate District 12.
We sent 1 high school government teacher for OBAMA to State Convention as our Delegate. Small victories. Small victories.

For the most up-to-date TX Caucus results: http://www.burntorangereport.com/

That's Right....The Tide Is Turning

LOVEABLE — Sat, 29 Mar 2008 12:53:26 EDT

There is something about this man that makes us all say, Yes we Can! Ms. Ms. Leslie sent me a link to the song “The Tide is Turning” and it just really made me feel good, just like she said it would. After so much negativity that has been so frustrating and burdensome, it was marvelous to hear something that makes you tap your feet, and sing, and inspires you to get busy. It also had me listening to other songs, just to hear what else was out there. Actually this is a new phenom for me ‘cause I am really old, old school. I remember ‘78 rpm’ records, that’s how old school I am. Let me put my comedy hat away for a moment (that goes to show you how much I enjoyed these video and why I wanted to share them with you). It seems there was someone else who felt inspired by these songs. Enjoy

Blogger, onegreatcountry said: In our history, Americans fight for Hope and hope is what Hillary Clinton can't give. She can't bring hope because she is one of the ones that have left us hopeless...Right now we are given an opportunity! It's time to show America how strong Hope can be. Obama represents one hope for America and one dream for Americans. My Featured video elaborates on these ideas. check it out.

Something About The Man/Yes We Can Remix http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qw4fRvFhuh4

I don't know who Roger Waters supports in this election, but this song from his 1987 album 'Radio KAOS' perfectly illustrates the both the dark age of the Bush administration, as well as the hope for a better future which Senator Obama brings to America and to the world. When Senator Obama delivered his historical Philadelphia address, this song instantly came to mind, so I decided to create this mash-up as a tribute to everyone who is helping and hoping to turn the tide.

www.bobcesca.com http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7s9ubMQX7WE&eurl=http://www.dailykos.com/story/2008/3/28/113932/003/53/486075

And, of course, I would be remiss if I didn’t list something for us who are ‘old school’ and love sentimental songs: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GvTvWJWeQ2g&feature=related

I sure wish I could get copies of these and other videos for our upcoming event on April 20th for those who don't have or use computers (hint, hint), if you have or know a source please contact me a.s.a.p. Thanks

Bridging the relationship between America and Africa

BENTON GRIMMETT — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 18:36:53 EDT

It is possible that the election of Mr. Obama will heighten the interest of young people (students)who are born in America with African parents to aspire to have governmental and military careers.

Also, the collaborations and interactions between all races could easily be inspired to improve with Mr. Obama leading this nation. Think about it! We need a "blessing".

TO "BUILD" AN AMERICAN - Lessons in Manhood: by Dad and Wolves

Rick — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 13:36:48 EDT

I was 11 years old in 1964 and proud of being the latest New Yorker promoted to the 8th grade. The familiar smells of my mother’s Spanish cooking added to the comfort of being included in the monthly gathering of my father, an “old-world” Puerto Rican, and his two brothers and their families. My father was the elder and, for as long as I could remember, like clockwork, these men met at my house, every month, to discuss politics, the month’s novelties, my cousin Nancy’s first Holy Communion, Uncle Oscar’s new job, who would be on Ed Sullivan, and so that everyone could tease my mom about her ongoing obsession with feeding my dad and I to death. This "five-foot-dumpling" of a wife and mother was convicted in her certainty that the measure of a woman’s worth, was found in the girth of her family's waistlines! As the kids ran about to the sporadic heralding of “…if you make me get up from here…” and the women discussed Lucy Ricardo's latest dress, the talk at the smoky table… where the men sat…always seemed to turn to HONOR. It was a subject spoken of in "broken English" by those who clutched the fierce objective of arriving at these shores, not merely to live in America... but to BECOME IT. HONOR: At that table, it was measured by how well each man there cared and provided for his family; how well each had repaid America’s hospitality and, each was accountable to the other two for compliance. It was, they said, what gave our family name its worth. HONOR; it was a word that seemed to be a big deal to these men and any one of them would grow by two inches when acknowledged with it by the others, but specially by the women of the clan. They were larger than life, those men, and as they donned their fedoras and left, I was always left with a yearning to somehow...one day, grow up to be just like them. Most of all, I wanted to grow up to be like my dad; the patriarch. On this particular night, just as he closed the door behind the last to exit, he turned to me and asked “Are you a man of HONOR, son?” I was startled... I wasn’t expecting the question! Searching for what I felt he was expecting as the “right” answer, I said “SURE, dad!” Pleasing him was my life's purpose. “Why," he asked. "Well... because I’m your son.” This must certainly be the right answer. A silent moment ensued, as he seemed to study me with an unsettling scrutiny that I had never before seen in his eyes. It made me uneasy…like being on stage…and forgetting your lines. “Then, you won’t mind explaining… what honor IS.” As I fumbled and scoured my brain for an answer, he stopped me in mid “fidget” and said... with something between a smirk and a smile,“You cannot be that which you do not know. Honor is different things to different people but, to all, it is the thing that, when choosing which fork to take when life’s road splits, compels a person to DO THE RIGHT THING. So from today forward, because you are my son, I will ask that you begin to reflect on the things that you are... and on things that you would like to become... so that you may grow into what you are meant to be. Whatever that may be, son, I need for you to become it…like your uncles and like me; as one of the "Basora men" who always try, no matter what, to DO THE RIGHT THING.” "You know..." he said, starting down the hall, "...the best gift that I can ever give your mother... and this country... is to build them AN AMERICAN."

Thirty three years later, mom succeeded and fed him to death. In my arms and surrounded by love; his two favorite Shepherds, like sentries, flanking his bed, I had never wished so hard for anything in my life, as I wished for that day; that he could speak to me from beyond this thing, this coma...just one more time...just one more time before he left me. "You're my best friend," I muttered. "I still need you. How can you even be certain that I've become this... man of HONOR?" His eyes parted slightly; mom, a nurse and my wife gasped... wide, reddened eyes... hands cupped to their mouths... as if frozen. "Because... it was you that compelled me... to never... ever... stop being one," he whispered... and died.

It has taken those 33 years of a work-in-progress to write this. It found its origins in the ways of my father and inspired, yet further, by the ways of WOLVES; the noble, social creatures that they are; a species that forsakes the frenzied existence of "the individual," living solely to amass "THE MOST THINGS" in favor of caring for their old... for their injured and disabled; of raising their young in a culture with no ORPHANS; of insuring the survival of THE PACK and in embracing a wondrous commitment by ALL… to doing THE RIGHT THINGS.

                                              The Way of the WOLF
                              Doctrines and Covenants of the Alpha Male
Honor is the inherent dignity of the doctrines and covenants by which one lives and the values that compel you to embrace them.
To live with honor fulfills a life. To die with honor fulfills a destiny.
Respect is the premium owed only to those with the courage to earn it.
Nothing good will be written of the coward, the tyrant or the mediocre.
Courage is not found in the absence of fear. It is found in the ability to step forward in spite of it.
The tyrant orders the charge. Only the leader will head it.
The tyrant fights all…to appear to be right. The leader fights for all…and for all that is right.
Power not tempered by wisdom and compassion defines tyranny.
Love with your heart; commit with your soul; believe with your gut; lead with all three.
The true measure of strength is found in the ability to choose not to use it.
                                                                    But…if you must…
Hurt before you injure; injure before you maim; maim before you kill; choose DEATH BEFORE DISHONOR.
To ignore abuse is to endorse it.
Love is the unselfish pursuit of the happiness of the beings you cherish.
If you cannot express love, no one will know that you do.
As you give of yourself, you will give to yourself.
At the point of arrogance does pride lose its virtue.
True partnership can only be achieved by separate and whole beings that retain their uniqueness even as they unite.
A friend’s worth is measured by the stature of the person you become when they enter your life.
Accept your relatives. Choose your family.
A man’s honor can only repose in the heart of a woman whose strength and virtue proclaim and confirm the substance that it took to earn her.
When life is allowed to yield less than its best, it will.
Put mind in gear before mouth in motion.
Dreams are the children of hope that whisper of all things that can be…in words that were never written…yet refuse to remain silent.
Dreams are the blueprints of a better reality.
Those who howl at the stars will be heard, at least, on the moon.
For a pack without a destination, no trail is favorable.
To solve a problem, you must first acknowledge that you have one.
Doing nothing means nothing will change.
Those who believe their own lies have fools as their witnesses.
Pursue what you wish to do until summoned by what you are meant to do.
Evil, like the blackest of nights, is the necessary darkness without which the magnificent aurora of virtue could never appear as splendid.
Goodness is but a choice.
Even the minions of the morally bankrupt are no match for one child clad in virtue and armed with truth. Nurture and proclaim him for in his spirit rests the seed of the alpha male, the heart of the pack, KING OF THE WOLVES.

                           Rick F. Basora, son of Fil Basora, an Alpha Male

Yes We Can Can!

Ms_CongenialityHI — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 04:27:10 EDT

I've loved the Pointer Sisters since they first hit the scene in the '70's. Here's a blast from the past for your weekend enjoyment!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-ULwExPXvg

Great Things

Robert H. — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 19:32:43 EDT

Presidential politics is a sticky business. On the one hand, it is our duty as Americans to vote for the man or woman who will serve the best interest of the nation. Then, on the other hand, we are expected to choose someone based upon information only gathered through blatantly cherry-picked resumes against a backdrop of fiery attacks on character, record, and associations of these candidates. Barack Obama offers a refreshing respit from the double-talking, self serving rhetoric and divisive attacks our nation has been engulfed in over the past decade. For the first time in my life, I feel that there is a candidate who can unite a country that is being torn asunder. I see a man who has an honest desire to bring some sense back into the government process and a plan to do just that. I have been a supporter of Senator Obama since early in his campaign for president, though I have never advocated for any presidential candidate until now. Barack Obama has ignited a hope within me that has not burned in a long time. I feel that great things are possible again in this country. That willingness in each of us to believe and then act on that belief in order to make things happen constitutes the very fuel which drives the American Dream. I believe this man can get things done in Washington all right....great things.

"A Blessing In Disguise"

Army Officer (Ty) — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 23:14:31 EDT

A BLESSING IN DISGUISE Many people, especially Barack Obama supporters, have become concerned with the firestorm of “Controversy” concerning a certain racial and religious sensitivity that has bubbled to the surface of the American psyche during these past few weeks. I must admit, I was concerned also, but for a different reason though. You see, I for one think that this is a blessing in disguise. I think that the sudden eruption of racial and spiritual overtones is but a natural thing when one considers America’s “WELL FLAVORED” past compared to HER desire to march forward toward a brighter future. For someone to say that they are surprised at what goes on or is said in the average African American Church is a stark reality as to how far apart emotionally Whites and Blacks are when it comes to race. Barack Obama is in a distinct, although many would say unenvied position, right now. He understands that the only way to move this nation forward and solve some of our problems, is that we all have to come together, or at least start to come together. Barack has been saying this from day one.

I believe that the one thing that we as Obama supporters take for granted is that he truly understands what position he is in and understands what it is going to take to bridge the divide that keeps us separated socially and more important emotionally. He understands that the issue of RACE has to be brought to the forefront in order for this nation to truly heal. And when I say heal you have to look deeper into that word to see exactly what I mean and what I believe many African American Churches feel. Just like no WHITE PERSON will ever really know the STING of being called the word N***A. No BLACK PERSON can really understand why WHITES get so irritated by being constantly reminded of slavery, segregation, black civil rights etc. Rightfully, Whites today had nothing to do with those dark spots in American History. They had no say so in the decisions that there forefathers made. Things got better and they prospered and live in a great nation the United States of America.

But on the other side of the coin, Blacks today had no say so in the emotional ties that they still have to the past. One cannot ask them to simply forgive and forget what their ancestors endured, especially when the system that they live in today still punishes many blacks for the type of thought process that this country helped to develop. Unfortunately today’s White America doesn’t have such vivid disturbing thoughts of the past to ponder. There is a psychological aspect to this type of thinking that could only be understood if you are black and can only be rectified if Blacks and Whites acknowledge it and talk about it. Pastor Wright’s comments weren’t of his personal hatred of America, but rather of a culture’s hatred of and disdain for America’s not so distant past. What many fail to realize is that Black Churches is where African Americans go to release a frustration that the rest of the country doesn’t understand and judging from the past week, cannot accept. This has been going on since slavery times. Blacks go to Church to vent. It is just now it is leaking out into the public eye and many are surprised, as simple minded as that may seem to say. But it is true.

The problem is that many either don’t want to believe that these opinions may be true or, more fittingly, refuse to acknowledge reality. And that reality is that we are realizing that we are more separate on this issue than we thought. Well here is a bulletin: there is a racial divide in America and it is not only between Blacks and White. It is also between Latinos and Blacks, White and Latinos, Native Americans and Whites. It is just that we have become accustomed to glossing things over and wishing and hoping that they will disappear. We don’t mind how many skeletons we have in the closet just as long as none of them jump out in the middle of the night. It is a nasty reality that unfortunately if we don’t confront as a society eventually it will consume us socially and cause we as a NATION to eat ourselves alive.

This thing racism and inequality and religious persecution left untreated is kind of like a virus, a sickness if you will. If left untreated it just gets worse and worse and festers into a boil or puss infested bubble on the surface of our nation’s skin. Continuously pulsing until it pops. Sorry to be so graphic but in my opinion it’s just reality. The problem is that many people refuse to accept that reality and face it so that we can make the situation better for all Americans and finally move past it.

We can solve this problem of racism if only we are strong enough to confront it and talk about it. The thing that I admire about Barack Obama is that he is not afraid to confront difficult situations head on. This man is willing to stand in the middle of a thunderstorm and attempt to defuse the situation while at the same time running for the highest office in the world. What Audacity! Wow! This guy has the audacity to tell the American people that he is going to go on national television, in the middle of a presidential campaign and talk about, not one, but TWO of the most touchy subjects in AMERICAN HISTORY. You have to respect the man for the amount of moral and ethical courage that he embodies. A little secret about me. I consider myself a Christian. I don’t hate anyone and I TRY to treat everyone as I would like to be treated. But I think what we are seeing now can only be attested to the plans of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. How else can one describe the chain of events that have taken place recently? I believe that things happen for a reason. I do not believe in chance. I believe that the issues that are present right now in this campaign are present for a reason. And that reason is to give us an opportunity to repair a bridge that was battered and torn long ago by a racism and hatred that this country was built on.

Our country is at a crossroads now. Either we can close our eyes and wish all of this away. This would unfortunately make the situation even worse and push us back decades in our thought process about each other as far as race in concerned. Or we can come to terms with our past and talk about our differences like grown ups. It will be a shame if we as the strongest country in the world chooses to state that we are not able to remove the sunglasses that have been tinted with a hatred from days far gone and see the would, and each other in a brighter light. But as I keep stating, it is up to us. Barack is but an instrument, we the people are the element that can make this happen. We must make ourselves heard. What we have now in Barack Obama and this situation that stands before us is a Blessing in Disguise. We have a real opportunity to heal ourselves and become an even stronger nation than we already are. Take a moment and ponder the possibilities an America that is TRULY united across racial lines. Many people, especially on this blog say, “Just Stop Talking About It”! Well, respectfully, I would like to bring to your attention, the reason we are in this situation right now is because our not so smart Grand Parents and Great Grand Parents decided to “not talk about it”. If we don’t talk about it we will lose this election and Barack Obama will not become president because there will remain too much mis-trust, and resentment. Barack Obama has to gain America’s trust and unfortunately or fortunately, depending on which pair of glasses you are wearing, part of his gaining America’s trust is talking about something that this country has never ever experienced. A BLACK PRESIDENT! I love all of you guys. Black, White, Yellow, Green, Fusia, Turquoise etc.I really love you all and hope that we can all open up and get past this. By the way I am Black/Native American.

BE INSPIRED http://www.youtube.com/v/2yYfXB7uz6k

Get MOTIVATEDhttps://donate.barackobama.com/page/contribute/dt2std?source=mainnav

GET UPLIFTEDhttp://www.youtube.com/v/2yYfXB7uz6k

LITTLE BIT OF ENCOURAGEMENThttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uNfuX9seIyM&feature=related

LITTLE MORE ENCOURAGEMENThttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jR-PD0l5qko

4****OBAMA****FROM****IRAQ

THE INSTRUMENT AND THE ELEMENT

Army Officer (Ty) — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 14:25:06 EDT

Yes Barack Obama has been chosen to carry a burden that is a heavy burden to bear, but Barack is not the element here. Open your eyes people!! Barack Obama, with all do respect, is the instrument. He is the instrument; and the people, you and I, We are the element. We are the driving force behind this CHANGE. So many have become confused and consumed by specific issues that have arisen throughout this historic event. We all have a right to be excited; we have a right to be anxious and many have a right to be afraid. Why you ask? Because these are natural emotions that occur whenever there is a major CHANGE such as the one that we are experiencing right now.

It's called CHANGE!!! And historically people are naturally afraid of CHANGE!!! Just look back throughout history. They fought against ending slavery (CHANGE). They fought against giving blacks equal rights (CHANGE). They fought against equal rights for the most precious living specimen on this planet WOMEN, WOMEN, WOMEN, WOMENS right to vote (CHANGE), WOMENS right at a fair chance in the work place (CHANGE) WOMENS right to choose (CHANGE)! I don't know why everyone is so surprised. If we look at history, what we are going through right now is evolution, growth, history in the making (CHANGE)!!!!

I agree that we all should be anxious, nervous, excited, but we should be all of these things for a different reason though. Not because we are terrified but instead because we see the reality of what is absolutely possible. Although this is difficult, this CHANGE that we all speak of, that we all dream of, that we all thirst for is not only POSSIBLE but very much PROBABLE. Yes! It is difficult. But the reality that we all have to clear our eyes and see is that it rest in our hands. Yes Barack has been chosen to carry a burden that is a heavy burden to bear, but Barack is not the ELEMENT here. Open your eyes people!! Barack Obama, with all do respect is the INSTRUMENT. He is the INSTRUMENT and the people, you and I, We are the ELEMENT. We are the driving force behind this change.

The one constant throughout history is CHANGE! It is inevitable. CHANGE happens regardless of weather we want it or not. CHANGE occurs despite the strongest opposition. And when there are millions of voices screaming for CHANGE, there is no Media outlet, no Right Ring Swift Boating; nor Racial or Religious hatred that can possibly drown out these millions of voices. It’s unstoppable!

The thing that we have to realize is that we the people are the Power, Fuel, Muscle, Influence; the Driving Force behind this change. No matter what the media or anyone else says, this is our government, this is our country and our voices will be heard. All we have to do is ensure that we continue to use our voices. Barack Obama is but the main ingredient that this country has been waiting on. A wise man said over a year ago that “This Change Won’t Come Easy”. And he was exactly right. Something as significant as this cannot be expected to come easy. There are those who are terrified of the implication that this change is screaming at all of us.

So we cannot sit around and pout because FOX news said this, or because CNN didn’t report that. We cannot mope around and cry because Sean Hannity is so mean and cruel or because Lou Dobbs is an idiot, or because Bill O’Reilly has no clue what he is talking about, or even because most of the media talking heads are afraid to tell the truth. We have to scream as loud as we can that we want CHANGE. We have to use the most powerful tool that our forefathers afforded us with the writing of our CONSTITUTION. With that document they gave us something that lives within all of us. They gave us AMERICA. I am America and you are America. We are America and when we make our voices heard that is America speaking. Your voice is America saying that they had better listen because she wants CHANGE. She wants to grow and if it is the will of the people She will grow. We have the power.

Not Fox News! Not CNN! Not the DNC! Not even the President! We’re America and throughout history it’s been proven that when we speak; when we raise our voices; when that fire in our eyes is clearly visible from across the table, there’s no choice but to listen and adhere to what She (AMERICA) is saying. So I challenge you all to fight. This country was built on the simple vision of a small colony that decided to fight against amazing and seemingly insurmountable odds. This country was founded on what seemed to be the impossible and has continued to prosper on the inevitable promise of CHANGE! Stop sitting around complaining and wasting your time bickering about what they say cannot be done. Get out and act like real Americans and motivate your neighbor to raise his or her voice. Let your voice be heard, literally get out of your house and let your voice be heard. This is a country of free speech. Let your government, your neighbors, your barber, your butcher, your sister, your brother, let them know that you want CHANGE, that AMERICA wants change. Open your mouths and honor those that came before us that gave us this right to Freedom of Speech. Honor those Women that struggled so that we can have a woman running for President right now. Honor all the blacks that were beaten and killed so that blacks today can vote and have a fair and equal say in the direction of this country. Honor those men and women who fought and died so that we can have a BLACK MAN running for President. They’re all smiling down upon us right now, waiting to see what we will do. John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King, Abraham Lincoln, Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth, Alice Paul, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, Jeannette Rankin, Malcolm X, Fredrick Douglas. They all fought for us and their voices were heard. Barack Obama has had an enormous burden placed on his shoulders, but again I say unto you Barack isn’t the ELEMENT, PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA is the INSTRUMENT. We’re the ELEMENT and as such we must make our selves heard, we must make our selves felt, we must FIGHT with our voices for our voices is the most powerful tool in America.

BE INSPIRED http://www.youtube.com/v/2yYfXB7uz6k

Get MOTIVATEDhttps://donate.barackobama.com/page/contribute/dt2std?source=mainnav

GET UPLIFTEDhttp://www.youtube.com/v/2yYfXB7uz6k

LITTLE BIT OF ENCOURAGEMENThttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uNfuX9seIyM&feature=related

LITTLE MORE ENCOURAGEMENThttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jR-PD0l5qko

4****OBAMA****FROM****IRAQ

A Must Share

Marcia--One who believes in Dreams! — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 01:03:40 EDT

I can't go to sleep until I share this with my fellow bloggers. I was finally able to see Sen. Obama's speech he made in Indiana. It was great to read it, but the power of hearing it is incomparable. What an inspiration to acknowledge our differences with the hope and belief that you can learn from the past to create a greater tomorrow.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6FsqDTVmlKk

United We Stand, Divided We Fall! Let's Stand....Yes We Can!! Obama '08

Irish Words of Inspiration for Barack

Unknown user — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 10:16:53 EDT

A 'Seanfhocal' is an old Irish Proverb of which there are many. I will, from time to time put these up on my blog in the hope that they might help inspire Barack and his supporters towards his goal of becoming President of The US and inspirational and worthy leader of the free world.

"Ni raibh an cuiosach ina thaoiseach maith ariamh"

"The mediocre never made great leaders"

America has a chance for the first time in decades to choose one "less ordinary" in choosing Barrack Obama.

We the People

Scott from Nantucket, MA — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 02:59:04 EDT

I have always been amazed by the facility with which politicians and pundits in this country act and speak as though the relationship between the people of the United States and the government of the United States is somehow a conflict between "us" and "them". When John McCain refers to a "tired philosophy that trusts in government rather than the American people", he does a disservice to the prerogatives of every American. It is not my belief that being "anti-government" is necessarily an invalid position. I am utterly convinced however that elevating a person who openlydisdains the role of government to a position of power within that government is the intellectual equivalent of Catholics anointing an atheist Pope.

We have born witness to such pernicious folly since January of 2001, and we have seen how miserably it has served the American people.

The great promise of America has never been that anybody could get rich, or that we all were entitled to drive a cool car. The great promise of America has always been that a Free People could be autonomous, and capable of governing themselves. We ARE the government, but only in so far as we choose to be engaged with it. Our constitution created a unique system in which We the People could, for the first time in history, choose how we wanted to stand in the world, could choose the face we wanted to project across the waters, could choose as a people who we wanted to be, if we were to be judged by our deeds. The rhetoric of the anti-government demagogues does far more damage than simply undermining our faith in our government. It undermines our faith in our selves, and in the fundamental promise of this Great Land. It undermines our faith in our own capacity to determine our destinies, to give presence to our priorities, to choose how we would walk through this world, and to walk through this world in that way.

We live today in the most unlikely of political constructs. This Great Nation was built on hard work, yes, but it was conceived in Hope. It was willed into being through inspiration, through aspiration, and through the undying Hope that what had never yet been could yet be, and that We the People could make it so. Hope is our call to arms. Hope compels us to action, and to vigilance.

The ambitious political creatures who would demonize the essential value of Hope pose the single greatest threat to this, our greatest of political realities. So it was dismaying to hear Senator McCain, with his long and honorable record of government service, mouthing the dispiriting, subversive sentiments of the current gang of Republican thugs. Their self-serving cynicism gives life to Jefferson's notion of “tyranny over the mind of man" and in their hollow hearts they advocate the only course by which this great "government of the People, by the People, and for the People" could yet indeed one day vanish from the Earth.