whatever happens, hangovers predicted for wednesday
As glad as I am that this whole hullabaloo (theatrics, really) is finally on its way to being over, and amidst all the unnecessary complications with inadequate voting booths, long lines, and general lack of preparedness, this is an exciting election. The significance of this historical moment lies not only in the race of the leading candidate, but also within the fervor of the American spirit. Voter registration and turnout is at an all-time high! People across class and education levels are actively engaged in an unprecedented way (at least as far as I can know in my short life)! Grassroots organizing all around!
I worry that so much of the organizing and activity surrounding this election is an just anomaly and not the beginning of a new era -- people more excited about a black man president as opposed to a really strong president -- and in 2012, and in the local elections in between, people will retain their apathy and ignorance. But the fact that things are even happening like this at all is certainly a hope-worthy sign. I've seen a lot more active energy coming from my friends and family, and in even stronger doses from those I wasn't expecting it from. I can't tell what's going to happen, but I can feel good about what already has happened, and I really hope we as a nation do not forget that.
I worry that so much of the organizing and activity surrounding this election is an just anomaly and not the beginning of a new era -- people more excited about a black man president as opposed to a really strong president -- and in 2012, and in the local elections in between, people will retain their apathy and ignorance. But the fact that things are even happening like this at all is certainly a hope-worthy sign. I've seen a lot more active energy coming from my friends and family, and in even stronger doses from those I wasn't expecting it from. I can't tell what's going to happen, but I can feel good about what already has happened, and I really hope we as a nation do not forget that.