We did something right?
Honestly, I've become so cynical about my country that I still can't quite believe the news is true. Obama won. I was whispering "yes" in front of the computer this morning, but still... wow.
I think the thing that made me really stop and realize how much of an impact this decision has is something that a co-worker passed along to me today. She stopped me and mentioned a child in year 2 (about 6 or 7 years old). She pointed out that he is either from Africa or has African roots (I can't remember which). And then she told me that he said he was going to be a president someday. This is not a coincidence. A six-year-old noticed this huge thing happening and it made an impact on what he felt was possible. That little event is more amazing to me that all the parties and rallies and speeches you can offer.
Similarly, eight-year-olds in the class I taught this morning pointed out that Obama is the U.S.'s first black president and brought up the election themselves! I don't remember being this aware of politics when I was eight. But maybe I was just unusually unaware of that sort of thing. These are, I must point out, children (from a variety of countries) who live in Britian. It matters to them all the way over here.
Anyway, I feel terribly relieved. Saj pointed out the reality check post and I agree that people need to realize that this is NOT an instant or even four-year fix. It's a start and a chance.
I think the thing that made me really stop and realize how much of an impact this decision has is something that a co-worker passed along to me today. She stopped me and mentioned a child in year 2 (about 6 or 7 years old). She pointed out that he is either from Africa or has African roots (I can't remember which). And then she told me that he said he was going to be a president someday. This is not a coincidence. A six-year-old noticed this huge thing happening and it made an impact on what he felt was possible. That little event is more amazing to me that all the parties and rallies and speeches you can offer.
Similarly, eight-year-olds in the class I taught this morning pointed out that Obama is the U.S.'s first black president and brought up the election themselves! I don't remember being this aware of politics when I was eight. But maybe I was just unusually unaware of that sort of thing. These are, I must point out, children (from a variety of countries) who live in Britian. It matters to them all the way over here.
Anyway, I feel terribly relieved. Saj pointed out the reality check post and I agree that people need to realize that this is NOT an instant or even four-year fix. It's a start and a chance.