Political Observations

The election is over and, as a Country, we've selected who our next president will be.

I was struck by a few things yesterday. Since I enjoy lists, here you go:

1. Patriotism is alive and well in the USA. Whatever your political views are, it's tough to ignore the record number of voters, the energy of the population and the unwaivering hope found in promises.

2. The younger generation (I can't believe that just wrote that.) is not as apathetic as their reputation implies. A record number of young voters campaigned, volunteered and voted.

3. The red and blue states are frustrated and fearful. Frustrated about the economy, the war, politics in general.

4. Regardless of who we voted for, the name of the President of the United States was always going to change on January 20, 2009. No overthrow of the current leader, no bloodshed, no surprises... Our founders, in their wisdom, saw value in restricting the length of service. So when President Bush first took office, he knew that 8 years was the maximum. How great is it that we can change leaders without the fear that other countries have to endure?

5. There can be elegance in defeat. John McCain's concession speech was impressive - human, real and emotional. I only wish that we had gotten to know that side of him more during the campaign.

The list is short in number, but long in length. I'll get off of my soapbox now.