Moving Forward

I need to leave my hotel and head home...more will be on the way. I just had to say that my first bleary eyed impression was that the night worked.

The hoopla surrounding this event and the anxiety being spread about how we were going to get in, and find our seats was not to be believed. Our collective nerves simply masked our real concern: Could he deliver? Would he deliver?

But in the end, the night turned out to be more about us than him. It was a celebration of the collective blood, sweat and tears that had brought us all to this day. And I don't mean for the past 20 months of this campaign, but of the last 40 plus years. The last 232 years if you're really counting.

The night worked because we were included. We were not merely observing history, we were participating in it.

The night worked because instead of giving the kind of secular sermon that I expected and love, he got down to the business of taking this country forward.

This is where I'm going...you comin' with me?

Yes I am.

The Senior Senator

We had a rare and special treat this morning in a visit from Dick Durbin of Illinois. And there I was all vaklempt at 8:30 a.m.

Durbin recalled the journey that began back in 2004, a journey that he has been on every step of the way. Some of the details were familiar, but many I had never heard.

It was Durbin who first began to take serious note of the effect that Obama was having on the average American citizen. It wasn't the Boston speech that led him to these conclusions but rather the months that followed as Durbin campaigned with the prospective junior senator across the state of Illinois.

At each Illinois town they went from the tiniest towns to the largest cities, they were greeted by overflow crowds. People who had come from neighboring states. Folks who wanted to hear more from the guy with the name they couldn't pronounce.

After the Senate race had been won and Durbin began to work with closely with Obama -- he pulled him aside and planted the idea of a 2008 run.

He said, in politics as in life..."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."

Politics is all about timing, and because so much of life is like that I found the words quite searing. In fact, it reminded me of the words I plan to speak from the pulpit this Sunday.

When we accept the task that destiny seems to have placed before us, we become free.

It is why the fierce urgency of now resonates and why this election feels more important than any one in my memory.

Being 10 feet away from Durbin as he spoke, you can tell he is genuine -- an affable guy with an important job that he truly loves. When he jokingly introduces himself as they guy who introduces Obama, you sense the pride of a father and the sincerity of a good friend. This is the kind of stuff you are likely to miss when you're watching it on t.v. or trying to listen above the bloviators.

The effect is an added element to the total picture of this whole process. Politics, much like ministry, is a helping profession. The strength of the political system also becomes its liability. You need the approval of the public in order to get your job and keep it. The ministry is somewhat...I say somewhat less democratic.

The problem is that all of this need for literal approval makes it hard to just relax and let go into what will be.

This convention allowed me to see some of these public servants with their guard down. Not all, but some...and it did wonders to cure the cynic in me. It gave me a glimpse into the lives of people who have said yes to a moment in time and are truly liberated regardless of the outcome.

Redemption

I guess in the truest sense of the word, I'm not certain Bill was made completely whole last night. But he went a long way in reminding us why we had liked him in the first place. He came through and did the right thing. His endorsement was what it needed to be: an endorsement from one of two living Democrats who actually know what lies ahead for Obama.

My fav line was when he FINALLY pointed out the obvious: Obama is him for this new generation. Their two stories share so many points of convergence, it was a relief to hear him acknowledge it.

Back in November of 1992 I gave a sermon, borrowing a line from my favorite Bill Clinton Speech. As I recall, A Place Called Hope got me in a bit of trouble with one of my more Republican congregants. Though it was merely an exposition on Paul's letter to the Hebrews, she felt I was sneaking partisan politics into the pulpit.

But neither Democrats nor Christians have a corner on that market...and as we were reminded last night: as Americans, we can, we must continue to Believe In A Place Called Hope.

Roll Call

Dolled up and ready to go we were ready to make history. This was another in a whole host of exciting moments. I heard that CNN had the roll call on t.v. without interruption. I guess they figured there was enough drama built right in: no need to play it up.

Each of the states and territories that had a chance to go clearly felt the pride in making their announcements. For me, in addition to BEING ON T.V. (did I mention that? have you checked out c-span's web site yet to see the clip?) was knowing how important New Jersey's role was in setting the stage for New York.

In another display of classic Clintonian Drama, Hillary finally let her people go. The crowd erupted and people actually cried. She came out on top and clearly had it planned this way all along.

I have this theory I call my West Wing Theory. It will only make sense if you followed the last season of that show which ended in 2006. Throughout all of that drama which lasted an entire season, we watched as Alan Alda and Jimmy Smitts rose to become their party's nominees. Each week I felt emotionally drained as I followed the ups and downs of their campaigns along with the behind the scenes story lines. Each week I promised myself I wouldn't fall for it again...ha.

These past 20 months have been about 100 times more draining. But I move forward. And when I get depressed, totally fed up with nasty crap that I can not abide, I comfort myself by recalling the final episode that NBC series. Comforted by the truth that art often imitates life.

Meeting Bobbi Brown

Okay, so I finally got to meet Bobbi. She was late to our delegation photo and had not even so much as a speck of lip gloss on. Hmmm. But she encouraged me to get a free makeover and enjoy the fun! I went to try and meet B.B. higher ups and talk up my sister-in-law who sells Bobbi Brown at Lord and Taylors in Paramus. Not sure I was successful but I did get quite dolled up which, as it turns out, was quite fortuitous...

I was on t.v. a mere hour and a half later during the New Jersey Roll Call. Whoppeeee my 3 minutes of fame on CNN. Anderson Cooper take notice: I'm on your trail!

As Bobbi herself noted: Change: Its a beautiful thing.

From the Bottom Up

One of the calling cards of Obama's campaign has been the reminder LOUD AND CLEAR that politics happens from the bottom up, not the top down. I have experienced countless examples of these words in action.

Yesterday, the entire Obama delegation from all 50 states was dispatched across the city of Denver for A Delegate Day of Service. Organized through the national web site, we had the opportunity to sign up months ago...yesterday was the day.

Several of us from New Jersey went to a Denver Food Bank sorting station set up in the parking lot of a hotel. There we met up with others from Indiana, and Washington State. In just a few short hours we unloaded, sorted and repacked 4.5 tons of donated food items. The gentleman in charge from Denver's Volunteers of America was in tears when he admitted that he doubted we would have time to finish, but in fact did so 1/2 hour ahead of schedule.

With a little will, the desire to make a difference and some elbow grease ordinary people can make an extraordinary difference.

Yes we can.

Getting Down to Business

Wednesday morning's delegation breakfast meeting was filled with important business. We heard several labor union reps from mighty BIG national unions.

The best line of the day came from a labor leader who spoke on the importance of talking to our neighbors about how supportive of labor our democratic nominee has been. He allowed as how during those conversations we are likely to face excuses and prejudices against Obama on every level. But he said: "If people tell you they just can't vote for a black man, you look them straight in the eye and tell them that's BULLSHIT."

Well alrighty then. Neighbors: you have been forewarned.

Then came the business of the day: The New Jersey Delegation's vote. There were several impassioned speeches from Hillary delegates who said it was time to show throw our UNANIMOUS support behind Obama. They came from ordinary citizens and party leaders and one thing was quite clear. They wanted to go into the official convention roll call with a strong, progressive clear-headed support of our party's nominee. They felt New Jersey needed to provide an example to the country of UNITY within our diversity.

We voted, it was unanimous...cheers and even a few tears from some delegates at the next table. I would only learn later the true import and impact of this vote. (to be continued)

We were then treated to a wonderful thank you speech from none other than Governor David Patterson of New York. A staunch Hillary delegate from the get go, Patterson assured us that this vote was exactly what Hillary wanted, and was particular meaningful coming from New York's favorite neighbor.

He also thanked us for our plentiful shopping malls...and gave one of the funniest speeches I have heard all week. I think Mr. Spitzer may have done a favor for the fine people of New York by leaving them in the able hands of this terrific guy.

Just Words?

I feel the need to continue my comments on the role of the spoken word.

It was an early primary lightening rod issue back before all the other mud began flying. You may remember folks giving Obama a hard time about his rhetorical prowess. Hillary, who is certainly no slouch in the podium herself, got the ball rolling on that one.

But here is why words matter. Do you think Obama would be where he is today were it not for that SPEECH four short years ago? He had two books under his belt and by any stretch of the imagination a remarkably fast rise to the U.S. Senate...but we began to pay attention because those words grabbed us by the heart and practically demanded it.

Only when he had our attention long enough did we realize that there was much more meat beyond the words. There was integrity, honesty, intelligence, a solid plan and a man whose very life represented soft power beyond measure.

Is it any wonder that the only other candidate who even remotely matched the winner's public speaking prowess was the woman who came in second?

I sat next to a man tonight who was at the convention in 2004. I asked him what it thought about it back then.

"It was electrifying. But I just figured he was the flavor of the month. But the crowd was energized by what he said...and followed up with action. And, well here we are."

My point exactly.

The Real Keynote

I know a thing or two about public speaking. I understand the pressure Mark Warner was under given that the man who last gave the keynote address at this convention is now our presidential nominee. Yeah, big shoes to fill. And he didn't. Not even close. And, what's more he almost seemed to know it. Not a great feeling. I know, I've been there.

This man is the one to watch for. Yes I know that Deval and Barack are friends and I know they have shared a speech writer -- but beyond the words is the need to be able to connect with your audience. A good speech, like a good sermon must grab you in the first minute. As my favorite homiletics professor used to say: "folks will get on the train with you if they think its going somewhere, you have to grab in the first few minutes or they're not gettin' on."

Three of the best, most effective speeches I have heard these past two days were from Corey Booker, Wellington Webb (former Mayor of Denver) and Deval Patrick. Three African-American men who I suspect may have heard a few sermons in their day...

A Sign of Things to Come

During the very entertaining and quite effective speech from the Governor of Montana (our honeymoon destination!) there was a sudden stir behind me. Everybody stood, pointing fingers and cameras...it was her.

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.

What's Up With That?

For the second night in a row Spike has been sitting right behind me in our NJ delegation. He shouts at the speakers like he's at a church revival. I love it...does he even live in New Jersey?

Yes She Did

By the time the moment had arrived, most everyone was getting nervous. Would she do what she needed to do? Say what needed to be said? Ten minutes into it, my neighbor gripped her seat like you might during a horror movie. The group around me, many elected officials and one former NJ governor began whispering, "this isn't her acceptance speech...buzz, buzz, buzz".

There was a collective sigh of relief when she FINALLY uttered those words "and that is why I am supporting Senator Barack Obama..."

The Clintons, God love 'em, have always been masters at dramatic tension. They keep us hanging every time, sitting at the edge of our seats. That is why, in the end, like it or not, they always make an impact. She had us in the palm of her hands and then called for, no, demanded party unity. We cheered, we cried, we all agreed Hillary had won us over and won the night.

Spike Lee was sitting two rows behind me. I wonder if he was taking notes?

Reality on the Ground, con't

Reality on the Ground

An unforeseen perk of actually being here is that I'm not watching it on t.v. I have not seen any of the television coverage at all. A reader writes of impending doom with the Clinton speech tonight. Of an overly Clinton bill, so to speak.

I have at this point sat through hours of speeches given at our NJ breakfasts and of course, on the convention floor. Let me tell you the talk is UNITY, UNITY and nothing but UNITY. Not once have I heard even so much as a peep about hostile takeovers, floor fights or steeling the thunder from Obama.

At this point I have met several people who have known Barack and Michelle long before this improbable journey began. From dozens of conversations I am assured of at least one thing: "ain't nobody gonna steel the thunder from either one of them". Period. End of story.

Despite the kooky hats and pursed lips of some die-hard Hillraisers, this party is unified behind the man they are convinced will boldly and confidently lead us into a new generation.

(Okay so THAT is the end of the story.)

MICHELLE!

Just one more fav photo of the evening. 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?

Real America

My favorite sign of the night, orchestrated to be waved in tandem with our "Michelle" signs while she spoke. She took the night. Classy, poised, sincere, 100% American. She is 44, just 4 months older than I. WOW. A true first lady-in-waiting. I can't wait.

One Nation

Part of the fun is all the freebies! Flags were handed out as we sat down...did someone say Dems were not patriotic!? Note to self: the people with the crazy hats get to be on t.v. Might have to go crazy hat shopping tomorrow!

Electric

I made it! Through the Denver traffic, the security check, the credentials check, the delegation check. Check. And New Jersey has really great seats! I have never been one for rock concerts but walking into that arena and seeing a see of people was electrifying. I'm never usually at a loss for words either. Amidst the excitment, patriotism and hoopla, I was speechless.

Serving the Community

Okay, so it is true that a good deal of what these conventions are about is face time. A chance for an elected official to meet and greet some of his/her constituents. Lots of hand shaking and card sharing as the canopies and drinks are consumed. But there is something else going on as well.

A bit starry-eyed I admit, I snaked around long enough for Governor Corzine to turn and shake my hand. I introduced myself as being new to the whole scene and he was genuinely, but GENUINELY happy to see me there. He credits "Barack" with bringing a whole new generation into the process and I guess I'm one of them. He asked me my opinion of Joe Biden and we talked about the importance of moving forward on foreign policy. Just a tad more heady than the average cocktail conversation.

The time was brief, as others were waiting for their turn. I lingered a bit and observed this warm, and easy guy really listen to the story of a high school that needs a new roof in some NJ city that seemed to be crumbling in more places than that. Seemingly sobered by the councilwoman's words, The Governor assured her that although money was tight, help was on the way.

This could have been coffee hour after church, with a congregant and a minister. Minister-Governor...Congregant-constituent. The goal is the same: to serve the community and its people, to move forward in the faith that things can be made better, and yes, to offer hope that our best days are yet to come.

The Adventure Begins!

My initiation to the world of a conventioneer began at gate 104 in the Newark Airport. Minutes after arriving, I met up with two very excited "first timers". As grassroots organizers they already knew one another and had been working together on the campaign from the beginning. Their enthusiasm was infectious and soon my bleary-eyed trepidation was replaced with a clear reminder that we were about to be part of history and it was going to be memorable!

We sat together for the 4 1/2 hour ride and rehashed primary stories. The most impressive of which was Glynnis' meeting Michelle Obama at a private fundraiser. "She is one terrific lady. She welcomed me in like a long lost friend, and seemed to get that I felt out of my element in this million dollar New Jersey mansion. She thanked me for coming and just wanted to know what was on my mind and how it was going for me and my family."

Only hours into this adventure I have already met so many people who have personally been working with the Obamas and this campaign since BEFORE day one. Kind, honest, real, smart, sincere and committed are describe the next First Family.

Shared a cab ride to the hotel with a Hillary delegate from Bergen County. Another great conversation about the Dems embarrassment of riches this time around and talk of unity, and support. As a representative of a Nurses and Teachers Union, she was thrilled that her candidate will have a place as a leader in the senate to achieve much needed changes in our health care system. She is happy to cast her vote for Obama...its all good. Still concern about a potential floor fight hangs in the air.

The Hotel Inverness is beyond luxurious...I may just get some rest after all...but it will be hard to settle down amist the incredible excitement that is swirling around. The New Jersey Delegation, officially 137 delegates has swelled to over 500 as a part of our delegation. It is the largest group of people to willingly, happily...no, ecstatically attend one of these things in a long, long time. The balance of the 137 are here as friends, and family and added guests because they dare not miss out. Not this year. Not this time around.

I saw a lost and lone pacifier sitting on a table in the lobby. For a split second I actually thought it was Luke's. (same kind! same color!) What an odd sign, a grounding image, really, for this larger than life first day.

Enough Already

Okay, even I can't take the suspense anymore. Even my Mortgage Broker called to ask me if I had any inside scoop on the VEEP. I am beginning to confuse my anxiety over a v.p. with the anxiety of packing and getting on the plane to Denver. ARGH!

All I can say is the choice better be good and there had better be a very plausible reason for making us wait.

This, coming from a person who found out the gender of each of her three children the first millisecond it was actually possible to determine through medical science. (Did you know that testicles are, in fact, detectable at 12 weeks of gestation?)

I seem change my answer every time a friend calls or emails to ask my opinion. But at this point, it had better be somebody totally under the radar. You can't make us wait this long and come up with somebody EXPECTED!

As a wise friend once said: the only time secrets are useful is before Christmas and your birthday.

Who's the Veep?

Amidst the tension of getting ready to leave is the news hanging over head about WHO IT WILL BE? And WHAT IT WILL MEAN?

I find myself worrying more than I should. Hillary? Evan? Kathleen? Tim? Wildcard person?

I have long thought it would be Evan Bayh -- The youth ticket will stand out loud and clear: "We're young and new and fresh, John and YOU ARE NOT".

I may be the only one who thinks so, but I think Old John (pardon the pun) is more worried about his age than the rest of us. Why else would he plan to announce his vp choice on his 72 birthday? That choice has less to do with overshadowing Obama and more to do with the big gloss over.

Time will certainly tell, won't it?

Unity in Diversity

Well...no Dem Convention Fashion Tips...But Governor Corzine and Congressman Steve Rothman were on hand to encourage Party Unity given our Diversity. The catch phrase brought me back to not a few student sermons at YDS.

Politically speaking, Unity given the diversity of the group sounded like a good idea. The room was filled with every kind of person from every demographic you can think of. That remains truly impressive to me. Some still seemed stuck on, if not miffed by the idea of no Hillary. I guess they hadn't heard Ralph Nader's prediction that Hillary is the surprise we've been waiting for...

Within the evening's theme of Unity and Diversity came several speeches about the shot in the arm that Obama has given the Democratic Party. It is being noticed at every level of public office. Of note, was Congressman's Pallone comment that he had often gone to election rallies where he faced fewer than a dozen half-hearted supporters. Now, and he credits Obama, he has to manage large throngs of volunteers, all of whom have been brought in because of this election. It is clear that even the most seasoned politicos are impressed, if not grateful for this duly needed shot in the arm.

What I have long suspected may in fact be true: like him or not, agree with him or not, it is difficult to argue with the "soft power" that Barack Obama brings to the Democratic Party and to this country. It is why I signed on back at the start and it is clearly the reason why Corzine, an avid open Hillary supporter, stood before us and said "We're all in this together...and we must stand behind our presumptive nominee with enthusiasm."

I left the meeting truly energized, excited, and proud to be a part of pushing a progressive agenda for this country. We were made to feel not only part of a team, but of a truly important happening.

Okay, and I was pretty excited to learn that Bobbi Brown herself is part of our delegation! A week in Denver, and the possibility of a makeover. Now that's the change I've been waiting for!

Getting Ready For Denver

This is a maiden voyage into the world of blogging. As a reader poking around the blog-o-spere these past 18 months, I'm feeling a bit unworthy. But I'm diving in feeling every part a citizen of the internet world and a citizen of the USA.

Tomorrow I will attend my last DNC NJ Delegation meeting before leaving for Denver this Sunday. I have no idea what to expect at this meeting but I'm told it will be important. Will they give us the inside scoop on the VEEP pick? Mostly, I hope they will talk about what to wear in Denver...heaven forbid I'm not properly dressed for this auspicious occasion.

When I signed on to help with the Obama campaign I was inspired by the promise I saw in his candidacy. I was drawn in by the ease with which the campaign accepted me. I am honored to be representing my district here in Bergen County, NJ. AND...I'm a little nervous to be leaving behind my husband and three small children to travel across the country alone. Ah, the prospect of a full night's sleep and no diaper's to change...yes, that is good. But what else awaits in Denver?

Will there be tantrums and crying? Will there be arguments about who sits where? Will there be messes to clean up and whining that it's not fair?

Hmmmm...maybe I won't be homesick...