Those of you who know me well have noted that I have been extremely silent about politics on this blog. I should remark that it has been both deliberate and difficult. The reason for that silence is pretty simple, the purpose of the blog is to discuss the family activities, and that discussion is what my audience expects (purpose and audience are the same reason why I do not discuss politics in my classroom).I must, however, break from policy for this post. On Wednesday, October the 1st, Senator Obama came to speak in LaCrosse, just 5 blocks from my campus. I offered my students the extra credit option of attending and writing about the experience, and I walked to the rally with several of my co-workers. I've been reflecting on the experience ever since.
I had the good fortune of being raised in Manchester, New Hampshire. With New Hampshire's "First in the Nation" status, I have had the opportunity to listen to, and often shake hands with most candidates for the highest office in the land. My dad used to love to attend the rallys, and I often went with him. I grew up in a house where canvassing neighborhoods with pamphlets was a perfectly exceptable way to spend an autumn Saturday. I often wonder what my dad would make of this election.
As a speech instructor, I certainly was moved by Senator Obama's speech. He not only knows how to construct a powerful speech (and he does write them himself) but he also knows how to deliver a speech. I must say that I find the prospect of having a president whose speeches I can hold up as examples to my students extremely appealing.
.It was more than that though. Yes, I was caught up in the charisma and enthusiasm of the moment. Yes, I left the rally feeling full of hope and enthusiasm for America, but it was more than that. 
After reflecting for a few days, I realized that I still felt excited. It is an excitement that is greater than what one feels as one is caught up in the fervor of a speech. I'm excited for America. I really believe that we are at a turning point. In the past eight years we have gone from a national surplus to a tremendous deficit, we are trapped in a seemingly endless and costly war (costly both in economics and in human lives), we have lost the respect of most all of our allies, and we are on the verge of an economic collapse, similar to the economic collapse this country experienced in 1929.I believe that we need a change, and I believe that Senator Obama can deliver that change. I beleive that Senator Obama has a vision that will lift this nation out of our current decline, a vision that will allow the middle and lower class to live better and more productive lives.
I remember my father talking about the hope and enthusiasm he felt as John F. Kennedy ran for and won the presidency. I can’t help but think about some of the similarities between these two men. I wonder what my dad would make of Senator Obama. I'd like to think he would feel the same hope I feel.
I would never be so bold as to tell you who to vote for. That should be your decision alone. I will, however, encourage you to make sure that you do vote. Please make sure that you are registered to vote and that you visit your polling place on November 4th.*
*Thanks to Brenda and Dan Rooney for the fantastic photos!
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