RE-LAX-A-SHUN

The Art and Science of doing nothing.

That is the definition of relaxation according to Wiki. The article goes on to say:

A human condition of flowing vital energy bringing about a state of improved health and well being. Effective relaxation may be referred to as rejuvenation.

I think it seems quite a bit nicer to just focus on the art and science of doing NOTHING. For me, it is quite hard to do when I'm in the vortex of home. And it is exactly why being away here on the Vermont/ New Hampshire border works so very well.

The children get to reconnect with cows and milk, chicken and eggs, snow and each other. We get to reconnect with friends, green living, liberal conversation and each other!

There may be an art to it, perhaps it is a science but it works for me.

Here is wishing you some effective relaxation which may in fact lead to rejuvenation!

Vermont State of Mind

We're heading out for our annual Vermont/New Hampshire New Years Holiday! As we prepare to leave, I'm aware that this time last year we were gearing up for the Primaries. It was an exciting, tense time...and it feels as though a million years have passed.

It has been a tremendously exciting and interesting year on so many levels. I'll be certain to unpack it as time goes on.

For now...no unpacking, just packing. Suffice it to say I'm far more relaxed than I was a year ago.

I'll be short on postings for a while, but will leave you with a few glimpses of our own little corner of Vermont right here in New Jersey. Our brisk winter walk today reminded me of that happy bumper sticker: Vermont is not just a place, it is a state of mind.

Know Hope.

Merry Merry Christmas!

Today is always a day about family and thinking about the year past and the year ahead. During our family Christmas service, my aunt shared the following from Obama's Christmas Message

Now more than ever, we must rededicate ourselves to the notion that we share a common destiny as Americans – that I am my brother’s keeper, I am my sister’s keeper. Now, we must all do our part to serve one another; to seek new ideas and new innovation; and to start a new chapter for our great country.

The full video is available here.

My uncle shared a piece of FDR's Inaugural Address given nearly 75 years ago. The historical connections were clear and gave us all a sense of comfort. We have weathered these storms before and together we can do it again. (We have nothing to fear but fear itself.)

Obama has a strong spiritual sensibility. The words he chooses give comfort during these difficult times. Comfort will not solve our economic woes but it is the basis for hope, for the belief that we can and will move ahead. That it will be alright.

Such words were a wonderful extra gift on this glorious Christmas Day.

Merry Christmas

We intended to head to New York City tonight. See "The Tree" and attend worship at the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church where a YDS buddy is now the pastor.

Well, the weather changed our plans for us.

And, as the full orchestra and three choirs opened this evening's worship at The Westside Presbyterian Church nearer to home, it seemed we made the right decision.

The presentation of Once In Royal David's City was like none I'd ever heard, I could barely choke back the tears.

Ministermom had never heard the third and fourth stanzas of that carol...

And, through all his wondrous childhood,
he would honor and obey,
love and watch the lowly maiden
in whose gentle arms he lay:
Christian children all must be
mild, obedient, good as he.

For he is our childhood's pattern,
day by day like us he grew;
he was little, weak and helpless,
tears and smiles like us he knew.
and he feeleth for our sadness,
and he shareth in our gladness.

We didn't get obedience or any form of mild from our cherubs during the rest of the worship...but there was great joy and gladness in various forms. We wish you the same!

Merry Christmas to all!

Faith of Our Fathers

This story has left a lump in my throat.

It seems that Obama has decided to take his oath of office placing his hand on the same Bible that Lincoln used in 1861. It has not been used since. The deep lines of connection between the President who stood up for blacks in this country with no voice...to the first African American President of the United States.

Say that a few times...it takes a while for it to sink in.

And what is more...Obama rallied so brilliantly against the "he is not one of us" meme. He is himself, he is a child of God not the evil other. (whatever that means).

During this season when we hear angels singing "Be Not Afraid", I am reminded how proud I am that as a nation, we were not. We are not.

January 20th...here we come!

Words To Ponder

Dealing with difficult children is like watching a garden grow.
Resist the temptation to pull up the plants to check the roots.

In difficult times children may thrive on conflict.
If you take the bait the battle rages.
Instead step back, breathe deeply, relax, and stay at your center.
Battles require two parties
One fighting alone soon tires.

Are there times when, despite all efforts, you must impose your will?
Of course.
But remember, those times are far fewer than you can imagine.

Is this current battle really necessary?
--- William Martin, Parents Tao Te Ching

*****
Trying substituting the word children with the word PEOPLE.

As I continue to find the place where I and my son can meet hearts, it occurs to me that this little quotation applies to all of life: to yoga, to children, relationships, the church, politics...the world.

Kinda covers it all, huh?

Light in Darkness

Yesterday was the shortest day of the year...and the longest night. Winter Solstice is a time of welcoming winter and reminding ourselves that from here on in, the days will be getting longer.

In our family we light LOTS of candles for the solstice. Last night there was some spontaneous singing of Happy Birthday... just because.

I don't LOVE winter as much as some. Yet I always feel hopeful during this time of year because I know that despite the cold and dark of winter -- spring will come again. And there is always something to enjoy about the inward time of year.

As you light your candles, I offer a translation of a Sanskrit Light Invocation. I particularly love the last phrase that describes God as THE VITAL ESSENCE OF ILLUMINATION.

I offer myself to the Light, the Auspicious Lord,
who is the True Teacher within and without
Who assumes the forms of Reality, Consciousness and Bliss
Who is never absent and is full of peace,
Independent of His Existence,
He is the vital essence of illumination.

I'm Smitten

As I mentioned before, I've been quite taken with a new web site discovery that removes me from my state of wonkiness. The Smitten Kitchen is really a blog with great photographs of food and recipes. Today I made the Brownie Bites (found under the cookie icon).

YUM.

And in case I go too far into Martha Stewart land...as I was taking photos to post (and plagarize Smitten Kitchen herself) I noticed a sign of hope amid the disarray of my own kitchen.

Literally.

Lesson of the day: despite the clutter that may confuse your life, there is always, always a sign of hope. Seek and ye shall find.

A Politics of Conscience

Several readers have emailed me privately about their disappointment, even outrage at the choice of Rick Warren. The concern centers around Warren's strident attitude and language against homosexuals and all others he views as other.

As I have already posted, I too was disappointed but not so fully surprised. Back in June of 2007, Obama gave the keynote address at the UCC General Synod Meeting. It was this speech that gave me the final nudge to get involved with his campaign. In it he refers directly to Warren as "his friend". Below is a portion of his speech where he describes why he is supportive of certain members of the Christian Right.

I think the issue here is not that Obama condones all of the theology of the Right, but he is unwilling to throw the baby out with the bath water as it were. This is by no means an excuse.

By no means...but it might shed light on his willingness to keep the door open.

Why keep the door open? I think it is because he believes as do many evangelicals that societies ills are "not problems in search of a 10 point plan, but are moral problems, rooted in both societal indifference and individual callousness – in the imperfections of man."

I pulled a piece of this speech found below. The full text is here.

Somehow, somewhere along the way, faith stopped being used to bring us together and started being used to drive us apart. It got hijacked. Part of it's because of the so-called leaders of the Christian Right, who've been all too eager to exploit what divides us. At every opportunity, they've told evangelical Christians that Democrats disrespect their values and dislike their Church, while suggesting to the rest of the country that religious Americans care only about issues like abortion and gay marriage; school prayer and intelligent design. There was even a time when the Christian Coalition determined that its number one legislative priority was tax cuts for the rich. I don't know what Bible they're reading, but it doesn't jibe with my version.

But I'm hopeful because I think there's an awakening taking place in America. People are coming together around a simple truth – that we are all connected, that I am my brother's keeper; I am my sister's keeper. And that it's not enough to just believe this – we have to do our part to make it a reality. My faith teaches me that I can sit in church and pray all I want, but I won't be fulfilling God's will unless I go out and do the Lord's work.

That's why pastors, friends of mine like Rick Warren and T.D. Jakes and organizations like World Vision and Catholic Charities are wielding their enormous influence to confront poverty, HIV/AIDS, and the genocide in Darfur. Religious leaders like my friends Rev. Jim Wallis and Rabbi David Saperstein and Nathan Diament are working for justice and fighting for change. And all across the country, communities of faith are sponsoring day care programs, building senior centers, and in so many other ways, taking part in the project of American renewal.

When I told my husband about the Warren choice, he reflexively said "are you sure it was his choice?" After 8 years of a puppet president, he couldn't help but wonder. I take heart, at least, that all of the choices being made are indeed Obama's choices. We may not understand them at first glance or agree with them in the long run...but I have to believe that we are at least on a better course moving toward a better future with strong leadership at the helm.

May it be so.

The Purpose Driven President

I may be one of very few people who was actually waiting to hear the announcement of who would give the invocation at Obama's Inauguration.

It was a bit of professional curiosity mixed with a belief that Obama would take great pains to chose someone whose presence would speak beyond his or her words.

Let's face it...I didn't think it would be The Rev. Jeremiah Wright. But I was hoping for The Rev. John Thomas, current General Conference Minister of the United Church of Christ. But that would have had no impact whatsoever I suppose.

Well...it will be Rick Warren. Yeah, Mr. Purpose Driven Guy. One of the 25 most influential evangelists in this country (according to Time)

And a purpose driven decision was made by Obama....to reach out to the Christianists, to reach out and offer forgiveness to the guy who wasn't all that cordial during his Saddleback Forum.

I suppose the choice makes tons of sense on a lot of levels. Its so sensible, its so reach across the church aisle, its so...Obama.

Just Say No

When I put my wonk hat on, I find myself thinking about this business of filling Hillary Clinton's senate seat. As a born and bread New Yawka, and as someone who was living in Westchester when Hill and Bill moved in, I have to say NO.

To the notion of Caroline Kennedy.

Now don't get me wrong. I love Caroline Kennedy and was quite moved by her willingness to step up to the plate for Obama. Her Op-Ed in the New York Times on behalf of Obama was beautifully written and was insightful.

But in my gut I still don't think that she is the right choice. Not that I know, right?

Well, I recently reconnected with a high school friend who is a Poly Sci professor at Brown with a specialty on the history of the senate. She sent me this article that she wrote on the subject.

In it she highlights the things that make for a good senator...and it highlights the things that a senator actually does. It is a quick and good read if you are interested.

Suffice it to say that I think my gut it right. I don't think she is the right choice.

That said, the NY Times reports today that she might be just the one to help David Patterson raise enough money for his campaign in 2010.

Ah, politics.

The Smitten Kitchen

I meant to note that when I was looking for a copy of those bits o' heath bar cookies, I came across a web site called The Smitten Kitchen.

In addition to some great recipes...this site which I am just learning about has some absolutely DELICIOUS PHOTOGRAPHS.

If you love photography and cooking...you'll love this site. If you're at work, and you're hungry, check it out maybe it will help.

As one not so smitten with the kitchen, this site's a keeper all the same.

Be Thou My Vision

We have been having a difficult time with our older son lately. Not sure what it is made of but it isn't pretty. And, it is bringing out the ugly in both mommy and daddy as well.

To my mind nothing makes you feel more like a helpless child than parenting. There are times when I just want to scream and shout "I want my mommy." It is a helpless out of control feeling. Not unlike what a child must feel like some of the time.

It is at those times that I most need to remember there is a Parent to whom I can turn. An energy upon which I can rest.

Often, I forget.

I awoke this morning with the words to my favorite hymn rolling around my head. Perhaps it was a gentle nudge from that Source tapping me on the shoulder...

Hey, you...I'm here if you need me.

Looking for the words, I found This video. It isn't great, but it is the closest to Van Morrison's rendition which I love.

The words were derived from an ancient Irish poem and date back to the 3rd century. The first 2 verses are my favorites...

Be Thou my Vision, O Lord of my heart;
Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art.
Thou my best Thought, by day or by night,
Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light.

Be Thou my Wisdom, and Thou my true Word;
I ever with Thee and Thou with me, Lord;
Thou my great Father, I Thy true son;
Thou in me dwelling, and I with Thee one.

Be Thou my battle Shield, Sword for the fight;
Be Thou my Dignity, Thou my Delight;
Thou my soul’s Shelter, Thou my high Tower:
Raise Thou me heavenward, O Power of my power.

Riches I heed not, nor man’s empty praise,
Thou mine Inheritance, now and always:
Thou and Thou only, first in my heart,
High King of Heaven, my Treasure Thou art.

High King of Heaven, my victory won,
May I reach Heaven’s joys, O bright Heaven’s Sun!
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
Still be my Vision, O Ruler of all.

Stupid Is As Stupid Does

Governor Patterson is now recommending an "Obestity Tax" on all non-diet sodas.

HUH?

Even this liberal democrat thinks that is crossing the line...imagine what the "get government off our backs" types will say.

What about potato chips, candy bars, Starbuck's Frappaccino's, and what about Fat Free Half and Half? Doesn't the Gov. know that the amount of oil and corn syrup in that crap creates fat cells too?!

I realize the City is in debt, and I get that we need to raise taxes, but I'm pretty sure we'll have to do better than that. And if he honestly believes that making soda more expensive will "put teens and children on a path to healthier eating"...

....he should see what the "no sugar" rule in our elementary school did to our children. I can't say but I can assure you a donut is involved.

As my mama always said, "stupid is as..."

Well, you know the rest.

Where is Forrest Gump when you need him?

Justified

In purely profane terms to be justified is to be right. Spiritually speaking, it goes one step further by offering absolution.

To be declared innocent or guiltless...to be absolved, justified.

And so it is that I have declared myself justified in all manner of speaking. Justified that I nearly went crazy worrying about Sarah Palin during this election!

For now it seems that not even John McCain thinks he would vote for her in 2012. This little blurb is a quick read and a nice eye-opener. McCain can only admit that she invigorated his campaign...and then refers to himself as a still warm corpse.

Ouch.

I felt further justified when I heard Colin Powell clearly state that Sarah Palin had a polarizing effect on the entire Republican Party.

So there.

She invigorated by dividing, polarizing and tearing people down. I can only say I'm relieved that it did not work. Grateful that we were not fully inspired by this negativity.

Maybe now I can put it to rest...

Thought For The Week

There are only three qualities you must teach your children.
Compassion, patience, and simplicity.
Some would say this is absurd.
They would teach instead, ambition, drive and consumption and say it is the way of success.

But if they learn patience, they see the world as it truly is.
If they learn simplicity, they see themselves as they truly are.
And, it they learn compassion, they heal themselves and the world.

Compassion, patience and simplicity cannot be taught until they are experienced.
And when we experience them, we lose the need to teach them.
We live them instead, and then our children learn.
-- William Martin, The Parent's Tao Te Ching

Change You Can Taste

So I moved out of my comfort zone this cookie baking season. The year it is all about change, right?

In a fit of giddiness, I purchased Heathbar Crunch Bits and Ghiradelli Chocolate Chips instead of Nestle's. And to make it even crazier, I made the cookie recipe on the back of the Heath Toffee Bits bag AND then added the chips.

I'm only posting this because the recipe was only slightly different than Toll House, but the result was quite different.

2 Sticks of Butter
1 cup white sugar
1 cup light brown sugar
3 eggs
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. vanilla
2 tsp. baking soda
2 tsp. creme of tarter (or sub with 1 tsp. lemon juice...it binds the egg or something)
3 1/2 cups white flour
1 package Heath Toffee Bits
1-12oz. package Ghiradelli semi-sweet bits.

bake at 350 for 10-12 minutes. Make 6 dozen cookies.

I've been to two cookie exchanges in as many weeks, and I do think this is the basic comfort cookie with a twist. It is much crunchier and not as chewy as Toll House.

Okay...that was my Bree Van de Kamp moment. Thanks for listening...and let me know if you try the cookies.

No More BoBo

There is nothing quite like a peacefully sleeping child. Just makes you want to sigh...ah. But it has taken us a very long week to get to this place.

On Monday, December 1st...we gave up the pacifier (the bobo as it was affectionately known). It has been a cranky, proud, sleepless, treat-filled, whiny and did I mention cranky week. During this time I have been consumed with the task, knowing full-well that the only thing required would be a tolerance for pain...my sweet little one's and the rest of ours as well.

Raising the pain threshold is not easy, and certainly seems to go against human instinct. A parent's job is to soothe, to salve, to make it better. He is flesh of my own flesh, how can I possibly allow him to suffer?

And yet, in order for a child to learn that he is viable on his own, he must be given the opportunity to succeed in all sorts of ways both big and small every day of his life.

The best gifts I can give to my children are such occasions to see that they are able, that things are possible for them.

Not painless, but possible.

Yesterday, as we were packing a little bag with trains, and cars and a sippy cup in preparation to leave the house, I had the fleeting thought that we were not packing a bobo!

In the quiet of my own heart I felt free and quite proud.

Moments later, came a little voice out of the blue: "I happy mommy."

Not painless but possible.


You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy;
In Your right hand there are pleasures forever. Psalm 16:11

MIDDLE Age?!?!

Well, it wasn't my imagination. Certain designers are beginning to pin their hopes on the "Michelle Look". They are showcasing pearls, and broaches, and other MIDDLE AGE LOOKS.

This terrific article is called "Middle Age Finds Its Muse"...yes, Michelle will be a lovely muse for all of those OVER 40 retailers.

But do you really have to call us...mmmmiddle age?

Yikes, when did that happen?

Karmic Justice

The term Karma, as I have always understood is defined as "what you do". The term describes the natural order of cause and effect that occurs in life.

Quite simply, what you DO has CONSEQUENCES. Good or bad, welcomed or un-welcomed, desired or unwanted our actions cause re-action in the grand scheme of life.

In my few and far between calmer moments an accident would simply require the query: "Oh, the juice has spilled, now what needs to happen". The calm observations of cause and effect are often the only effective way to elicit the kinds of responses you might want from children. They don't feel judged, you don't feel angry, the spiller wipes the juice up. All is well.

That's life...stuff happens which makes other stuff happen. Karma.

I read a wonderful piece by James Fallows this past weekend regarding Obama's appointment of Eric Shinseki as Chairman of Veteran's Affairs. It was followed by another post on Sullivan's Blog that offers a video of Obama talking on Sunday's Meet The Press.

Aside from being a brilliant insight into this appointment, it also showcases the reality that given enough time, we come to see the wisdom in the "mistakes" we think we've made.

It may sound trite, but a door closed somewhere in life often leads to an opening somewhere else. We just have to wait for the cycle to complete itself...and render those mistakes perfect (in retrospect, of course).

Patience and an open mind are key.

Now, if I can just remember that next time the juice spills...

OOOOOO, Of cOurse

What was I thinking? Barbara Walter's person of the year was...our President Elect....

I guess I've been so traumatized by Sarah Palin that I wasn't thinking clearly. So sorry.

And yes, it makes quite good sense: He is the person of the year and hopefully the next 8 years as well!

Advent

This first season of the Christian Year officially began on Sunday. Advent, from the Latin adventus means "coming". It is a preparatory time to ready one's heart, mind and soul for the gift given to us in the Bethlehem baby.

This year I am acutely aware of preparation, of being ready to receive the gifts of A New Day, and a New Time, for a new generation. This is a season of anticipation. And there is so much for us to look forward to. And so much to that concerns us too.

We may be looking ahead but we're not there yet.

This is our age old conundrum. Life between the now and the not yet.

So how do we live in the meantime?

The best way to live well is to live "as if". Live as if what you most wish for has come to pass. Live as if it will be alright because it will be alright. Live as if your life and your actions make a difference and then see what happens...in that mean time.

Far from being wishful thinking or seeming deep in denial, living as if allows us to stay present to the good that is happening all around us right now. And, it fortifies us to continue the journey in spite of the concern for what might be.

But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? 25But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. Romans 8:24-25

Its No Secret Barbara, Con't

Hold the phone! I may be wrong about Barbara's interview "surprise"...in fact, it is possible that her "I'm sure you'll guess who it is" comment was meant to indicate (drum roll, please)

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

We'll just have to wait and see!

A New Day

In case you missed that link in the last post...will I. Am's new song A NEW DAY
has become a favorite here in our home.

At the children's request, it plays on the lap top while we eat breakfast before school. My 8 year old hums the song around the house...and has memorized nearly all the words.

The best part: she really seems to get it.

Yes, it is a new day indeed.

4 Million Minus 2

So, I don't think hubby and I will be able to attend the Inauguration.

I got on my congressman's list to get 2 tickets, I secured the guestroom of my buddy who lives in Alexandria, but I'm thinking 4 million people might be plenty of support for a nice celebration. I'm thinking Barack and Michelle won't miss us...

Instead, I was thinking of making my own party here in Jersey where my own improbable journey began nearly two years ago.

I'm thinking everybody should take the day off of school and work, cozy up in front of the T.V. and make our own Inaugural Ball right here at home.

We can still get dressed up and take pictures, wave as the parade goes by and cheer to our heart's content. History will still be made and A New Day will still be dawning for us all.

And, I'll always have Denver...

Its No Secret Barbara

On December 4th at 10pm Barbara Walters will air her annual special interview of the year's 10 most intriguing people.

She has lined up some terrific folks and her website
is highlighting 9 of them. She claims that the number 1 most intriguing person will be a surprise to be announced on the show.

Most years Barb is able to keep the secret...but this year she has already said she is sure the public has already guess who it will be.

Oy vey. Once I read that I just knew it was going to be her.

Now I'll be forced to watch, and just hope that my cousin in PA will be close to her Blackberry.

I'll need help getting through yet another episode of Gotcha, Oh Gee, Darnit, You Betcha.

A Very Black Friday

What could you possibly want or need at Wal-Mart that you would wait in line for 8 hours to make sure you get it...at 5a.m!?

The horrific story of a Wal-Mart employee being trampled to death by 2,000 people who apparently could not wait for their blue-light special has continued to haunt me.

I cannot even begin to fathom what this says about our culture...that these folks had been waiting in front of the store on Long Island since 9pm the NIGHT BEFORE...that the sales had been hyped beyond belief during the world's worse economy...or worse yet...

that they never even closed the store once the death of this young man, 34, had been reported.

That is just some sick stuff, my friends.

The union representing Wal-Mart workers are infuriated saying that this death could have been avoided. Gee, ya think?!

Apparently the economy isn't bad enough.

May the soul of Jdimytai Damour rest in peace.

May the souls of those who run Wal-Mart begin some serious, serious soul-searching.

This Guy Being Wrong: Priceless

Andrew Sullivan has been posting some of the best out to lunch quotes of the year...and this one just made me laugh OUT LOUD. Way to go, Penn...

"All of these articles about his boyhood in Indonesia and his life in Hawaii are geared towards showing his background is diverse, multicultural and putting that in a new light. Save it for 2050 ... I cannot imagine America electing a president during a time of war who is not at his center fundamentally American in his thinking and values. The right knows Obama is unelectable except against Attila the Hun," - Mark Penn, March 19, 2007.

How much did they pay this guy?

Expressing Gratitude

I was searching around the Internet to find some appropriate crafts for Thanksgiving. My older children are having a 'double play date' today.

Amidst the Thanksgiving Tree (which came out very cute), I was quickly reminded of the link between being grateful and feeling happy.

It was Cicero (106-43 B.C.) who said: Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others.

I found This video
worth watching. It offers a timely message that is always worth remembering.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Every WoMan

On the stands today is Newsweek's cover piece on Michelle Obama. Entitled "The Meaning of Michelle".

I have yet to read it but I suspect that in addition to photographs a-plenty, it will tell another up from the bootstraps story that America loves.

Or at least I love.

Her appeal, for me, is that her story is so real and so steeped in the traditional values we hold dear. Family, friends, faith and fashion.

Check out this photo montage that highlights her evolving fashion sense. I LOVE that she can sport a 35.00 dress from H&M or a hot off the runway number from Narciso Rodriguez. She carries it all.

I've already sorted through my costume jewelry and pulled out my broaches and chunky pearls. Keep your eyes peeled at those rummage sales...this is going to be fun!

On A More Positive Note

I enjoyed a wonderful evening last night as my nephew was awarded a County Humanitarian Award for his volunteer work in the community. He won the only applause of the evening when he spoke about his work registering voters and said :

"We cannot call ourselves the greatest democracy in the world when more people vote in American Idol than for a Presidential Election".

You said it, Jack.

He was visibly nervous speaking in front of the crowd of nearly 400. But I was so proud of this young man and all the other young people who stood with him.

Their energy and ACTIVE interest in the world reminds us that there is so much more going on that is good and right...beyond the worry and the concern that many of us feel.

They, who are too young yet to vote, know hope and are living proof that individual lights make the world so much brighter for all of us. They make a difference in the lives of others because they have such great hope for their future, and ours.

Every single one of them had been nurtured by a community of faith that encouraged reaching out beyond themselves.

In the same way, let your light shine before people in such a way that they will see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16

I Need Palinex

I'm still here and she still bothers me.

There is certainly no reason to be worried about Sarah Palin these days. Except when I read this.

Why is she still considered a red hot number? Why do Oprah and Letterman, Leno and William Morris hope for their piece of the Palin pie?

The woman opens her mouth, words come out, she says nothing. The appeal is so wildly lost on me. I saw her speaking at the Turkey Kill Ranch outside of Wasilla. And yes, it was distracting all that "business" going on behind her. But what was even more gut-wrenching...the woman lives inside the bubble of her own brain. Her words even when strung together properly, are empty.

The icing on the cake has to be the web site: ourcountryPAC.org which is featuring a new Thanksgiving commercial in honor of Palin.

I don't recommend that one on a full stomach. Might not be so good for you.

OR, if you must watch it...watch THIS afterward!

Case In Point

I received an email from a gay friend on the night Obama gave his acceptance speech. He was thrilled and proud and relieved to actually hear a future president utter the word 'gay' in a welcoming and inclusive (and nationally televised) manner.

That is exactly the kind of openness that was and is meant by our nation's creed: Out of many, one: E Pluribus Unum.

Obama's truly open and affirming mindset is easily supported by his faith which is easily supported by The United Church of Christ.

No matter where you are on life's journey, you are welcome.

I mean everyone...yeah, you too.

God Is Still Speaking

I have read quite a bit about Obama's brand of Christianity lately. Much of it is written by folks who are questioning whether or not Barack Obama is a real Christian.

No, they don't believe he is Muslim. They know he professes Christ to be his avenue to God. But that is not enough for them. They want him to show some clear signs that he is the right kind of Christian. The traditional Nicene Creed kind.

Most of what I have read thus far fails to recognize the central faith of The United Church of Christ. And that is, "Through Ancient Text and modern voices...God is still speaking."

The UCC coins a term attributed to Gracie Allen: never put a period where God has placed a comma.

One look at how the UCC self-describes and you will find a church that coined the term Open and Affirming to signify its willingness to truly, honestly and actually OPEN its doors to ALL regardless of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation or questions along the journey of faith.

That is Obama's Christianity. It is far more open to questioning, dialog, and acceptance of difference than many sects of Christianity can even imagine.

He has said on more than one occasion that his faith informs his sense of public service.

Rather than looking back to the Nicene Creed to judge Obama's faith, I would look forward to the theology and philosophy of the Emerging Church with its emphasis on dialog rather than one way evangelism.

A man who believes that God is still speaking, is someone who will be listening and paying very close attention.

See, I am doing a new thing!
Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? Isaiah 43:19a

Oh La La!

Well, it seems that Mrs. O will be featured in Paris Match magazine. It is a major glam shot.

But I have one beef: I think the arch of her eyebrows is what makes her seem "angry" looking much of the time. I'm sure as people get to know her and hear her more, it will melt away. And, perhaps a new make-up artist is in order as well.

I think Sarah's might be available now.

The Internet President

If you have not already seen this, here is a link to the first of President-elect Obama's weekly you tube addresses.

When I checked in on it this morning, it had over 700,000 hits.

Surely, this is a change in the right direction. For all the blather about how Obama won't be all that different...he is beginning to show that he will at least bring the White House into the 21st century.

That is change that looks forward at least, isn't it?

The www.change.gov is also a new web site that helps you stay connected to what is happening in government.

Considering that our new president hopes to be a first to have a lap top in the Oval Office, it strikes me that the new generation of voters (yeah, democrats) will continue to stay engaged and interested in their government. All worries about the future notwithstanding...this is great news.

Country First!

Is She or Isn't She?

The buzz about town is that Hillary will be tapped to be Secretary of State. I thought the idea was a rather good one.

But further buzz says the buzz was created by Hillary's people.

For what purpose? Well, it seems George Stephanopoulos might have started the rumor because the Clinton royals are still smarting from the whole Bill Richardson and John Kerry defection to camp Obama.

Richardson and Kerry were, in fact, two names originally posted for the Secretary job. This inside scoop stuff might be above my pay grade...ha ha.

Hey, at least it keeps us from talking about Sarah Palin for five minutes!

“A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy man keeps a secret.” Proverbs 11:13

A Badge of Honor

When the results were finally tallied, my little town in Northern New Jersey went for McCain 1888 votes to 1392. So there are 1391 other folks walking around town who voted for Obama...by my measly calculations.

Feeling rather proud and somewhat bold, I have been sporting America's Next First Family button on my jacket. It pictures the smiling Obama clan waving in front of the White House.

Immune to the glares at this point, and the no comment comments, I have now taken on a new tactic when people squint and move in to get a better look..."Isn't it exciting?!?! I can't wait. Our generation finally has its own Jackie O."

So far, all I've gotten are somewhat engaged discussions about...Jackie O. No concurrence, no talk of Michelle's fab look. Not even an utterance of the word...O-B-A-M-A

That's okay, I have to start somewhere. At least Jackie O was a democrat, and that might account for a little headway, don't you think?

Now onward to look for those 1,391 people. They've got to be hiding somewhere!

The Fabulous Mrs. O

While still in Denver, I posted a few pieces on Michelle Obama. My wish has come true...my generation has got its Jackie O.

Amidst all the real fear and serious questions that our nation now faces, I am just thrilled that we can also spend time focusing on how they are parenting, and what she is wearing. Apparently, I'm not alone: I just found a fabulous fashion web site all about Michelle O.

Here is what I said back in Denver:

I can't sleep thinking about how moved I was by her presentation. It wasn't just her words but the way she has rallied against the "unpatriotic" meme. Every aspect of her story and Barack's story is so classic, so core to what many contend are so called "real" American values. Although their politics may be liberal, their story is really quite traditional. What's not to love?
*******
Donning yet another adorable dress, Michelle along with the rest of her clan and Mr. and Mrs. Biden were seated in a box about ten rows behind. It took at least 15 minutes for the crowd to settle.

To be sure, we are a celebrity-obsessed culture...but more than that we are hungering for someone to adore, someone normal to emulate, someone to call our own once again.

I grew up listening to my mother describe her love of and respect for Jackie Kennedy. I think I finally know what she meant. (August 25, 2008)
***************

No, this won't solve the mortgage crisis or erase the unemployment rates or bring the wars to an end. But it will allow us to have some fun, shift the focus a bit and revel once again in that dream that is so uniquely, obsessively, particularly...American.

Too Bad I Don't Drink Gin

Considering all the trouble I had around various neighbor's tables during this campaign, I found this bit of wisdom from Dave Barry of the Miami Herald rather helpful: Read it and drink up!

You know what I miss? I miss 1960. Not the part about my face turning overnight into the world's most productive zit farm. What I miss is the way the grown-ups acted about the Kennedy-Nixon race. Like the McCain-Obama race, that was a big historic deal that aroused strong feelings in the voters. This included my parents and their friends, who were fairly evenly divided, and very passionate. They'd have these major honking arguments at their cocktail parties. But unlike today, when people wear out their upper lips sneering at those who disagree with them, the 1960s grown-ups of my memory, whoever they voted for, continued to respect each other and remain good friends.

What was their secret? Gin. On any given Saturday night they consumed enough martinis to fuel an assault helicopter. But also they were capable of understanding a concept that we seem to have lost, which is that people who disagree with you politically are not necessarily evil or stupid. My parents and their friends took it for granted that most people were fundamentally decent and wanted the best for the country. So they argued by sincerely (if loudly) trying to persuade each other. They did not argue by calling each other names, which is pointless and childish, and which constitutes I would estimate 97 percent of what passes for political debate today.

What I'm saying is: we, as a nation, need to drink more martinis.

No, you know what I'm saying. I'm saying, now that this election is over, whatever the hell happened, can we please grow up and stop being so nasty to each other? Please?

OK, I didn't think so.

Please pass the pitcher.

The West Wing Theory

Okay so Mathew Santos is now our President Elect and he has just selected Josh Lyman to be his Chief-of-Staff!

Art imitates life imitates art imitating life...or something like that!

As someone who was glued for one hour a week to NBC's The West Wing, I initially thought it was funny to see the reality of McCain-Obama predicted during the show's last season.

I was truly surprised when Obama selected Rahm Emanuel given that West Wing fans know the character of Josh Lyman was based on Emanuel. Weird.

Now I am beginning to realize that Washington must be a truly predictable beast. That a solid three, even four years ago those in the know already knew. The specific names might not have been available but the archetypes were set. The traditional versus the new. The boomer versus the post-boomer. (insert archetype here)

Long before November 4, 2008 -- there was a hint that we were destined to head in a new direction, to turn the page, to leap forward...(insert cliche here).

It appears, at least in theory, that the stage has been set for progressive politics to emerge. I for one could not be more thrilled.

But because I have not been focused on such things, I did not realize just long this change was in the making. It has been brewing for years and apparently those in the know, knew the time was ripe. That if there ever was a time -- the time was NOW to make this thing happen.

All the pieces were in place: A battered economy, an wildly unpopular administration, a huge swath of the country who decided they were ready to be counted.

As historians know, shifts like this are always indicated years prior.

For the rest of us, we will endure those for whom change is frightening and rest assured that it was bound to happen.

Thank God!

Let Us Summon A New Spirit

This will be the theme of his first 100 days and beyond. We have got to heal from the divisions made wider during this election and move forward.

Out of many we are one.

If we breath we can hope.

Yes We Can.

John, Where Were You?

John McCain is revealing the decency he seems to have misplaced during this campaign. Why did he not believe that his might have worked for him from day one.

I hope his supporters take heed of his call to (now, at least) move forward to be decent and SUPPORTIVE citizens for the next President of these UNITED States.

YES WE DID!

Yes...WE DID. Four years after his speech dreamed of what was possible...it has become so.

Yes, yes, yes WE DID.

Thank you, Barack...now let's get to work. AMEN

Your Vote - The Future Is Waiting

This Is The Moment...The Moment is NOW

Okay folks...get out and VOTE if you haven't already!

And to egg you on: some early voting results....from New Hampshire

First Results: Obama Takes Dixville Notch Away From The GOP

By Eric Kleefeld - November 4, 2008, 12:23AM

The first results are in for the 2008 general election, with the small village of Dixville Notch, New Hampshire again performing its tradition of having everyone turn out to vote at midnight and then immediately reporting the results.

And the count is a real shocker, as just read on CNN: Obama 15 votes, McCain six votes -- in a place that has only voted Democratic once in the 50 years they've been doing this tradition.

The results here aren't really predictive of anything, either for New Hampshire or the country -- Lyndon Johnson in 1964, Richard Nixon in 1968, Bill Clinton in 1992 and 1996, plus John Kerry in 2004 all carried the state even as they lost here, and Obama carried it in the Democratic primary that he went on to lose. But the news that Obama picked up a well-known rural Republican stronghold is certainly not discouraging.

Late Update: We initially wrote that Dixville Notch has never voted Dem before -- but in fact they voted for Hubert Humphrey in 1968. Take that as another cautionary tale.

Another Thought For The Week

In the unlikely story of America, there is never anything false about HOPE.
Barack Obama

The End Is The Beginning And So On...

I made 40 phone calls to voters in Pennsylvania today. Mostly, I left messages for people who were not home. One woman told me she was still undecided. I was dying to press her on that, but had the distinct feeling she just didn't want to talk. Can't blame her.

This year (or two) will go down in my family's history as the "time my mommy worked for Obama". It will be a time that I hope they and my sweet hubby forget that I neglected the laundry, and sometimes dinner because I was fixated on something that felt too large to ignore.

I hope they someday understand that I was driven by a love for my country and a need to do something...anything...to help make it less UPSIDE DOWN. Dare I say, I wanted to do something, anything to help make it "right side up" once again.

Though I have always been prone to drama, I have not always welcomed the flurry of emotion, some quite vile, that has surrounded this political process. I have, at times, sunk lower than I could have imagined and wondered why I was even bothering to care.

But all along, with the help of those more rational than I, I hung on to the words that made me stand up in the first place:

"We all have it within our power to make this a better world. Because we all have the capacity to do justice and show mercy; to treat others with dignity and respect; and to rise above what divides us and come together to meet those challenges we can't meet alone. It's the wisdom Moses imparted to those who would succeed him. And it's a lesson we need to remember today – as members of another Joshua generation." Barack Obama, June 23, 2007 - UCC General Synod

What I am commanding you is not too difficult for you or beyond your reach. It is not up in heaven. Nor is it beyond the sea. No, the word is very near. It is on your lips and in your heart. Deuteronomy 30

Great Expectations

I received an ecstatic phone call from my 13 year old god daughter tonight.

"HI...guess where I am...an Obama rally! Its amazing!"

That a young person of pre-voting age has become so engaged in her country is wonderful. That she even recognizes Ohio, where she lives is a swing state is nearly unheard of. That she felt like she was waiting to hear a "rock" star give a speech is a once in a generation phenomenon.

The youngest citizens of our country have become involved, interested, sometimes mis-informed, often competitive and combative about this election because they too are susceptible to the national mood.

Regardless of what happens on Tuesday, I have been acutely aware of the national hope that has been pinned on this election. The collective anxiety over the actual results is just indicative of the mood that has been building for nearly 8 years.

Amid my myriad worries has been the impossible expectations placed on Obama. Those who want him to win, need him to win. They have a sense that the nation has been stuck, and that he could unstick it.

I too have had this sense that we needed to move beyond and that is why I have resonated so closely with the thinking of Andrew Sullivan. He is able to cogently diagnose what has been ailing us.

He has done it again, it yesterday's London Times. I recommend this -- especially if you want to stop watching the news for a moment or stop looking at the polls.

This is the article.

Another Thought For The Week Ahead

The world is a dangerous place to live; not because of the people who are evil, but because of the people who don't do anything about it.

Albert Einstein

Thought For The Week - Letting It Go

I have held many things in my hands, and I have lost them all; but whatever I have placed in God's hands, that I still possess.
-- Martin Luther

The Small c Conservative

I realize that the economics of Obama is worrying all kinds of Joes all over the place. So, I thought it was worth noting a part of Obama's economic speech given just after the most recent melt down.

Part of the reason this crisis occurred is that everyone was living beyond their means - from Wall Street to Washington to even some on Main Street. CEOs got greedy. Politicians spent money they didn't have. Lenders tricked people into buying home they couldn't afford and some folks knew they couldn't afford them and bought them anyway.

We've lived through an era of easy money, in which we were allowed and even encouraged to spend without limits; to borrow instead of save.

Now, I know that in an age of declining wages and skyrocketing costs, for many folks this was not a choice but a necessity. People have been forced to turn to credit cards and home equity loans to keep up, just like our government has borrowed from China and other creditors to help pay its bills.

But we now know how dangerous that can be. Once we get past the present emergency, which requires immediate new investments, we have to break that cycle of debt. Our long-term future requires that we do what's necessary to scale down our deficits, grow wages and encourage personal savings again.

Not really so socialist-y, is it? The full text of the speech is here.

Trick or Treat?

Well, the polls are certainly confusing these days...yesterday CNN and Fox reported a "tightening". Today's NY Times/CBS Poll says it isn't really that tight at all.

An AP Poll out today says 1 in 7 people still have not decided.

The confusion may be that people are torn, genuinely torn.

Yesterday I met a mom who told me she loved Obama and thought he was going to be our next president. She then leaned in very close and practically whispered, "but I don't think I can vote for him. The tax thing, you know. My husband works very hard, very hard. (read: over 250K hard)...we just don't want to see that money go."

Okay, fair enough. What can I say to that? I was satisfied that she seemed genuinely torn for what it was worth.

I think those undecideds may be worried for the same reasons. And that is why I don't think the polls can tell us all we wish they could at this point. There is just too much at stake. We're witnessing history here folks. As in record numbers of people gettin' up off their duffs and voting. Some for the first time in their lives. So, as much as I hate to admit it, we'll just have to wait and see.

The polls I'm reading still have Obama up by 6.2. But what do I know?

The BIGGEST STORY OF THE DAY IN MY MIND: John McCain is only 5 points ahead in Arizona! He is doing robo calls in his home state and Obama is advertising there.

Unless I mistakenly read that on The Onion, I'm calling that one scarier than my son's zombie costume. The polls are close, but it seems Mr. McCain better muster the energy to rise from the dead in his own home state. Yikes.

Trick or Treat indeed! Oh, and Happy Candy Hunting!

p.s.

I want to go on record as saying that if I'm wrong about Sarah Palin, and she does turn out to be the darling of the GOP...in 2008 or 2012.

I will eat my hat. Or some other such crow-eating device.

Let's just say I'll be surprised...very, very, very surprised.

If For No Other Reason

This video might just give you goosebumps.

To think this man in his 80's will live to vote for and possibly see the first Black president of these United States is powerful beyond measure.

To doubt that we are in the midst of a major cultural shift in this country is to have your eyes closed whist being locked in a closet far, far away.

I don't know about you, but to my progressive mind, this is what progress looks and sounds like.

Vote Hope.

My Own Prescience

I was in the Denver Airport on August 29th when I began to learn a bit more about McCain's v.p. pick. The first thing that made me pause: the fact that she had a 4 month old child. Never mind that he was a child with special needs...just that he was her 5th and he was only an infant. Didn't seem right to my mommy brain.

As I trolled around the Internet, I just didn't like what I was reading.

48 hours after I first heard her name...I sat in a group of die-hard Republicans and said, "I'm sorry guys, but I honestly think McCain will be sorry for this choice. He will look back to regret her".

I could have easily chalked up my own Palin dis-ease to Democratitis. Was I jealous of this young, pretty mavericky maverick? Did I think she would hurt Obama's chances? That is what my GOP friends were accusing.

Nope, that wasn't it. There was much more at play and it seems that a mere two months later, I was right. She is being called a Diva and a Wack-job by members of the McCain staff.

There are rumors flying all over the place that she is really just making a play for her own game on in 2012. There is even a syndrome called The Palin Effect which highlights all of the conservatives who have ditched their party stating her as the reason. Not to mention the way in which her faith intersects her call to public life.

But never mind the TONS of material I could post against her. That would be way too eeeeezzzzy.

Politics, it seems boils down to intuition.

I'm sorry I can't be more scientific than that. It was an initial sense that made me sit up and really listen to Barack Obama four years ago, and volunteer for his campaign two years ago.

It was a hunch that gave me the nagging feeling that Sarah wasn't all she was cracked up to be.

It is just a feeling that Bobby Jindal will be the one to look out for in 2012...while Sarah is trying to stay warm in Alaska picking up the pieces of her broken career, and the toys strewn about by toddler Trig.


and after the earthquake a fire; but the LORD was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice. 1Kings 19:12

The Crystal Ball

Back in Denver, I noted the words of Illinois Senator, Dick Durbin as he advised Obama on a 2008 presidential run. Durbin said:

"there are times in life when you look for the right moment to make your move...but sometimes the moment picks you. Now is your moment, and even if you lose, you can't lose."

Two years ago TODAY, October 27 2006, Charles Krauthammer of the (conservative) National Review Online made his own crystal ball prediction. It is almost eery to read two years later. It is worth noting that even back then, conservatives wonks saw the potential of Obama's candidacy.

We shall see in 8 or maybe 9 days just how the predictions pan out. By their standards, Obama has already WON, and achieved more than they initially imagined.

Amidst the vile that we have seen, it is a true blessing that there have always been people with hope and clear vision for a brighter more positive future for this country.

As Proverbs reminds us: Where there is no vision, the people perish (29:18)

...With insight, the people flourish.

I've Been There

Well, some McCain campaign aides are miffed because they just found out some pretty crazy news.

Sarah Palin's make up artist makes more than they do! Over 8 grand in just September alone!

I certainly know how they feel. I still remember the Fairfield County wedding I officiated for two lovely young kids. The hired make up artist milled around for hours primping everyone including me...she was told to liven me up since I would be in the "video". That was fun, I'll admit.

But...I nearly choked on my canape when I discovered that although I had counseled the couple for hours, spent twice as much time designing their personalized wedding ceremony, drove to the location twice for the rehearsal and the wedding, and made the whole thing OFFICIAL by signing and mailing in the documents...the make up artist made 5 times more than I did on said wedding.

For the love of God!

No, really.

Maybe I missed my calling...Bobbi, we need to talk!

Les MisBarack Revisited

As we get closer to November 4th I have been thinking about the brilliance of THIS VIDEO

You might want to pass it along to your friends and foes even...inspiration and a good laugh for the ten days ahead!

Yes We Can.

Nervous But Hopeful in PA

This quick note from my cousin in Pennsylvania. Thanks, Cuz...hope you don't mind the direct quote!

Nervous but hopeful in PA. Made 65 calls at phone bank on Tuesday night. Seventeen people answered and 14 were definitely voting for Barack plus all other voters in their houses. Three were undecided. Get this. I asked the positive ones if they were interested in volunteering for the campaign and most told me they and spouse were "working two jobs" and had no free time.

What does that tell ya....time for change.

Suffer The Little Children

During the final Presidential Debate, many cringed as John McCain said repeatedly that his campaign understood the needs of special children "because of Sarah Palin". He repeatedly used the term Autism. The cringe factor, (due to ageism, no doubt), was the feeling that he was misspeaking. That he meant to say Down Syndrome as it related to the Palin's 5th child.

Crisis averted: turns out Sarah Palin's sister has a son with Autism.

And...this will all be cleared up TODAY because Palin is scheduled to give a "major policy speech" on the issue of government assistance in the lives of special needs children. This will become a "national priority".

I will refrain from any possible cynicism at this point. None from this desk. Nope, won't even go there. Whatever you're thinking...I'm not thinking that.

"Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these". Matthew 19:14

President Barack Obama

Okay, this clip from yesterday helped me get in the mood again.

This is the vision, courage, the nerve in addition to the inspiration our depressed nation needs...NOW! Right now.

What a stark contrast to the nasty crap we've been hearing elsewhere in "real, small towns all over this nation."

sniff, sniff...I've got hope all over again.

On Not Counting Your Chickens Before They're Hatched

I have been surprised in the past several days to have the notion of a President Obama be touted as a foregone conclusion. Not that I'm complaining...

It surprised me to hear it coming from staunch republicans who will no sooner vote for Obama than they would, um...cut off an arm? I read this in the newspaper, have heard it at book club, in the playground, on the mainstream radio news.

The only one who is trying to psych me out is one of my husband's colleagues who claims he knows real America, and "real Americans won't vote for the Black Guy" (which is why he already cast his ballot for Palin-McCain...in that order).

Psych-me-out-guy notwithstanding, I just read a long, but very interesting article about why the whole President Obama notion may be catching on.

This article from Time Magazine is well worth some time. It describes in close detail just how Obama has developed his presidential mindset over the last 20 months or so. Of note, it describes a meeting he had with General Petraeus last summer during which time he took a decidedly Commander-in-Chief stance.

It is worth reading and certainly passing along especially for those who may still be on the fence. Surely, there are still a few out there...

The Economy Gets Us All

Well, there is some good news regarding the downturn in the economy...it may be the case that McCain will not have money to launch any last minute attacks against Obama.

The hope was that some Richy McRichster would step forward to fund such an ad campaign. BUT...money is tight and most of those Richies are not lovin' McCain right now anyway.

Maybe McCain's camp should have thought of that before letting Sarah do all that shloppin' at Neimans. Oy.

I don't know, but if The White House/Black House and Target are good enough for Michelle, they're good enough for me.

But I digress...

I will take my good news any way I can get it. If austerity means that Karl Rove has to tighten his purse strings like the rest of us...so be it!

Baseball Politics

I have been reading a bit about how crucial Pennsylvania will be in this election. It is touted to be the Ohio and Florida of 2008.

The McCain Campaign is said to be relying on that to take them over the top. The only problem is that Real Clear Politics has PA in the SOLID DEM category with Obama up over 11 points. So what gives? Can McCain possibly play catch up in the next two weeks?

The Campaign mentioned that they were going to save the best stuff they had for the last ten days. AND...conventional wisdom has it that the election is not really decided until after the World Series is over.

Is it ironic or possibly parabolic that this year's series BEGINS TODAY and will feature The Philadelphia Phillies and The Tampa Bay Rays? I don't even like baseball all that much, but I find that rather...interesting.

If Philly loses will Pennsylvanians be too depressed to vote? Will Floridians mourn by voting Republican and throwing the election?

Okay, maybe I am over-thinking this.

We'll know no later than October 30th, when I'm told the country fresh off "The Series" will be emotionally available to think about this election...finally.

We Cannot Become Complacent

For what it is worth...for whoever is out there reading this blog...please read

THIS

With two weeks left to this campaign McCain has already promised to bring out the really disgusting stuff. The robocalls, the talks of socialism...the sheer reminder for those who care: Obama is a black man who does not have YOUR interest at heart.

Think it is all hype?

I don't. I sat around a table tonight in Northern, New Jersey with folks who assured me that Michelle, my Michelle, actually despises white people and that she taught Barack to do the same. This isn't West Virginia people. I don't live in rural Ohio or PA...here I am a mere 24 miles from mid-town Manhattan. This is East Coast Elite Country.

I don't want to be alarmist, but I think we can all something: make phone calls via Obama's web site, talk to people around the table (as I did...argh).

Know Hope...Actively!

Unity in Diversity

Colin Powell endorsed Barack Obama today on national television. What stood out for me was his "so what if Obama is a Muslim" statement. FINALLY...someone publicly states the obvious.

This video is a brief interview where Powell goes further to state the importance of the Unity in Diversity that is the cornerstone of our country. This, I fear, is a sensibility we are losing. Without it, no president will be able to govern...certainly not a President Obama should that become the reality.

Lately, I have become quite nostalgic about the liberal religious upbringing I enjoyed. As a young adult, rebellion came in my search for the traditional, the more orthodox. But as a parent I am now realizing just how fortunate my brothers and I were.

Difference and otherness was always embraced in our home. It allowed for a parade of rather unique individuals to fill our living room and share around our kitchen table. And, it allowed me to realize that all humans share a narrative: the quest for wholeness, happiness and freedom to be, to connect with others and something larger than themselves.

Unity in Diversity.

Thanks Mom and Dad. It turns out that all along we were the quintessential American Family...who knew?

The Mouths of Babes

I am exceedingly tired and am ready to finish my three week single parenting stint. I have thanked God daily that my current state was temporary. I am well aware of how many women and men go it alone raising children every single day, forever. I am also convinced that it truly does take a village.

In that spirit, I drove my daughter and two of her friends to a birthday party. The conversation among these 8 year old third graders actually turned to politics...argh, is their no sanctuary from this topic?!? I nearly veered off the road when one of the girls asked me quite plainly, "Mrs. J, is it true that if Obama becomes president he is going to take babies out of their mommy's tummies and kill them?"

That, followed up by a second punch in the stomach, "I heard from a kid a school that if Obama becomes president, we are going to lose that war and then those people are going to come over here and make us be like them."

There has been a lot written on both sides about parents politicizing their children. I find the whole thing rather horrible myself even though for the past two years there would be no possible way my children could have been shielded from the fact that "mommy works for Obama". Heck, my two year old's first word after mama and dada was Obama...no, I'm not kidding.

It is obvious that children pick up what they are hearing at home -- but what I had forgotten was just how much our children soak up the fear that they hear around them. I was driving three little human sponges in my car, one of whom was clearly drenched with fear.

What is to become of these children if Obama actually becomes President Obama? How will they process what they were told with the reality of their daily lives possibly for the next eight years?

I have no idea, but I have a good chance of finding out, don't I?

I will sleep well tonight, partly out of sheer exhaustion, but also in the comfort of knowing that all along I have assured my children that whatever the outcome of this election...it will be alright. And, it will be the right and best choice for this country because we, as citizens, will have made that choice. That is what it means to be a democracy.

Country First, indeed.

Run Away Maverick

In an effort to solidify my position on the subject, just thought I'd go on record as saying something profound. I want to be able to refer back to this blog and show my children someday.

Sara Palin's career has already reached its apex. Her favorability ratings were at their highest about two days after she was announced in late August...before the public actually knew who she was.

My armchair wonk prediction is that she will become a mere footnote on history. At best, she will be remembered for her spunk. More likely, she will continue to be mildly vilified for the way her mean girlness, lies and magical view of reality brought down the candidacy of John McCain. I do believe she will be gettin' thrown under the proverbial bus.

Time, of course, will tell...

In the meantime, there are a few Alaskans who seem to already know the score.

This video is priceless.

Both of these gals echoed my thoughts exactly. I kind of envied them for a minute or two.

Watch and enjoy.