Like most children, when I was a child growing up, I aspired to be something great. My aspiration was that of the President of the United States of America. Fortunately, my parents supported this level of desired leadership during my early formative years. They did not squash my dream. Instead they were supportive!
It was not until I became a parent myself that I realized that my parents were truly torn between support and nonsupport in my endeavor to become the Leader of this Nation. Looking back in my memory, I can see the expressions on my parents' faces. As a child, I only saw the encouragement that they had. I did not notice the worry and concern that was simultaneously behind the encouragement. Come to think of it, I did notice that something was not quite right when I reached my teenage years and better understood the ways of the world. However, it was not until I was a parent that I truly understood.
I say this because there has never been a President of the United States that has ever had the year long tan that I happen to have. In other words, there has never been a Black/African American or Multi-racial President. (Note: Please forgive me for stating the obvious)
Now, I do not know if you have noticed or not but I have, to date, not attempted to join the race to become President. Unfortunately, as much as I strive to be the best leader that I can be, I have also come to the harsh reality that I may be a "Big Chicken!"
Like many, I have faced and for the most part overcome many small and large challenges in life. But there is one challenge that always seems difficult to face. That challenge is "Catch 22" especially as it relates to a Presidential Race.
Here is what I noticed Non-year long tan (i.e. White) candidates will and are expected to address the issues and concerns of the majority voters as well as those that are in the minority (e.g. Black, Hispanic, etc.) Many view this as just good politics. There generally is not a fear or concern that this type of candidate, if elected, is going to focus primarily on the issues associated with minorities. Again, it is just good politics to court minority voters.
However, things seem to change when that candidate is themselves classified as a minority. For example, I have heard many majority voters state their concern that a minority candidate once in the White House would focus on minority issues which they believe would not be good overall for the Nation. To reduce this perception and fear, there is a likelihood that a minority candidate would focus more on majority issues. One might even argue that by addressing many of the majority issues the minority issues are addressed simultaneously. Needless to say, not everyone agrees with this.
On the other hand, I have also heard many minority voters state their concern that a minority candidate is not focusing on minority issues and therefore will not effectively work to resolve these issues once in the White House. As result, some have said that they are voting for a majority candidate.
Catch 22! What is a minority candidate to do?
Answer: Face the challenge head on, address the issues, inspire, motivate, and more importantly convince the Nation that he or she can lead it.
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» left by Robert Melaccio, Sr.(6,428) Robert Melaccio, Sr. (296 days 4 hours ago.)
A mans worth is not in the color of their skin or by color is any man defined as a man. No it is their works and what they stand for, their deeds. It is certainly proven on the battle fields of war. The books are full of man of color and all races who are a mans man by not only their word but what they stand for and what they do, their deeds and that is how they should be judged, no more. My nephew, of mixed parents is a man, a good man a decent man a capable man. To say he did not suffer and still does because of that would be ignorant. Yet, when I look at the Tony Dungy types, the Lovie Smiths and a host of all men who made it, especilly black men I cannot help to think there is hope. I do think we are slowly turning the corner. I wold have hoped Obama was the one. Sadly I do not agree with much he stands for. Not by race but by ideology. No certainly if we are true to our self we should never place aside our beliefs to accomplish something we long for and even what is right and just to accomplish that. No then we are not what we say we are as men. No, like Dr. King and those who fought the fight, they got to the top of the mountain and saw the other side. His dream is a dream of all good men and people everywhere. Perhaps, just perhaps if We the People demanded it and practiced it, it would be so? All the best RTM Respond to this comment
» left by Kevin D. Moore(143) Kevin D. Moore (295 days 21 hours ago.)
Robert,
I agree that this country is definitely turning the corner. Regardless of what one feels about Senator Obama it truly brings a smile to my face when I see so many people (e.g. Black, White, Latino, Asia, etc) supporting an individual without regard to race. Simply incredible! I too don't agree with everything he stands for...but it sure feels good to see so many different people come together.
America the Beautiful...
Kevin Respond to this comment
» left by sue thom from nj (296 days 2 hours ago.)
hi kevin,
i so like your style of writing, it's clear, focused, to the point, and no added or extra words, and you write on interesting subjects.
if you ever do run for office, i want to be notified!
take care and please keep writing,
my best regards,
sue Respond to this comment
» left by Kevin D. Moore(143) Kevin D. Moore (295 days 21 hours ago.)
Sue,
If my wife ever let's me run for Office, I will definitely let you know... I really appreciate your feedback. But whatever you do, don't track down my high school english teacher. She may not agree with you...
Thanks again!
Kevin Respond to this comment
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