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A member of one of the more popular blog community websites started a discussion several days ago. His topic of discussion was whether America is ready for a black president. So far he's received over 100 replies; most of which are not inflammatory or spewing any racial hatred. However one commentor does make this statement, "I definitely think the US is ready for a colored president. It shows progressiveness." He's kidding, right?
The topic moderator goes on to comment on one of the responses he's received by stating that voting for him won't be easy. The question itself is an insult to any American with the intelligence of an 8th grader. There is no mention of his platform, only color - nothing about Obama supporting a repeal of tax cuts for upper income earners to pay for health care, comprehensive immigration reform, merit pay and salary increases for teachers, and most importantly wanting to bring our babies home! (yes, that's what those 19 and 20 year olds who are dying in Iraq are - babies!) That reason alone has secured my vote.
I have two sons ages 16 and 7. I'm no soothsayer so therefore I cannot predict with any certainty what the future holds. But a man that is famous...no..infamous for his hot temper and threatening rhetoric about how wars are inevitable and will go on throughout the rest of this century leave little room for hope of world peace in my lifetime. Maybe I'm being naive to even think such a thing can or will ever occur. Still, I don't want my boys at risk of being shipped to some God-forsaken place, in harm's way FOR NO GOOD REASON! I love my country and I hope I've instilled that in my children. There IS no greater sacrifice than to give up one's life for what he believes in. But to give up your life over someone else's egotistical desire to prove his point to the world stage is a heinous offense and if the saying that you reap what you sow holds any credence - he will pay dearly for the deaths of over 4000 Americans and nearly 100,000 Iraqis.
But I digress.
Some of the reasons people have given for not voting for Obama are almost comical.
1. His parents were atheist/agnostic
Do the belief systems of our parents mean our beliefs must or will line up with theirs?
2. Some say Obama struggled to hard to denounce Reverend Wright
In life we are taught to hate the sin not the sinner. I'm sure Sen. Obama didn't agree with the rantings and antics displayed by Rev. Wright. I know I've had friends, pastors, teachers I didn't agree with but they were friends just the same. I could no more denounce them than I could a member of "my" family.
In 2000, Senator McCain called the late Jerry Falwell "an agent of intolerance," a statement which may have cost him the decisive South Carolina primary. But as he ramped up his next presidential run in 2006, he embraced Falwell and gave the commencement address at his Liberty University.
When Tim Russert asked if he still considered him an agent of intolerance, he said, "'no, I don't." (talk about flip-flopping)
3. Some say Obama is unpatriotic because he refuses to wear a flag lapel pin and that he won't salute the flag
In the photo, Senator Obama, Senator Clinton, and Governor Bill Richardson are standing during a rendition of the national anthem. A large beautiful American flag is behind them.
Symbolism is very important in this country. As elected officials, surely they should know that during a rendition of the national anthem when the flag is displayed ALL present EXCEPT those in uniform should stand at attention FACING the flag with the right hand over their heart.
And what ruffles my feathers to no end is when people who oppose Senator Obama always begin the reason for their opposition with these words, "I'm not racist". Why is that statement even necessary? Your reasoning and line of thinking will clearly reveal whether this is true or not. So why is it needed?
For me it's not that Obama is a black man that has won my vote. First and foremost I'm a member of the Democratic party. Therefore, I am supportive of my party, it's candidates and their platforms.
The Republican party over the last few months, even years has shown just how high corruption can soar if not put in check.
George W. Bush was the first President ever elected to the highest position on earth with a criminal record and appointed more convicted criminals to administrative positions than any other president.
He has completely destroyed this country's economy, cut healthcare benefits to veterans, passed a medicare bill that will gut medicare, and started a WAR against the will of the U.N. and the world community.
There was a correspondence between Einstein and Freud before the second World War that was recently published in a popular magazine - The article where the correspondence appeared was entitled "Is War Inevitable?". Einstein asked that question to Freud and he replied that man is driven by two equally strong instincts: eros and thanatos, love and death, one creative and one destructive. In other words, man has a natural passion for destruction and therefore ...delights in the drums of war. Instead, Freud asks back why do we want to get rid of war as historically it seems inevitable. However, he states that there are two roads to hope: the natural antidote to war (death), i.e. eros, and the overcoming or controlling of our instincts through intellect.
Which seems more feasible to you?
Roschelle Nelson is a Registered Nurse by profession and mother, wife, freelance writer, mentor, friend and genuine lover of life by choice. Roschelle has achieved success with several business ventures. She enjoys writing, meeting new people and considers life a precious gift. View her blogs Admissible Banter and Sagacious Rambling. Her views on life, current news, work and family are never dull and often sprinkled with humor and wit.
this was a very well written, interesting article. i've never cared about color, so that doesn't play into my decision who to vote for, only whether or not gas prices go down, there is no draft (my boys are 17 and 21) and all the other things a good President has power to change, like health care, and social security, property taxes (mine are 9,000.00 for 2 acres, now COME ON!) and the care of the aged.
Roschelle a really excellent article and you are exactly right again. It goes to show we have not progressed enough to consider the person and leave race out of it. Now as for either candidate they are not for me. I will vote if given a choice independent. Why, well the reasons are clear cut and formidable especially for professed believers. I am reminded and have written to Timothy Chapter 4 recently, which in my opinion establishes in my mind even clearer then before the age and beliefs of this age and the people who live in it. The fact is very soon those who think racist will find out that the majority is now the minority will be an eye opener. What will take place at that time? Yes they better hope that people such as yourself are in office, not what we have, or are offered. However, between the two candidates in my opinion Obama is more people oriented and yet it goes way past people to other significant issues, past words and promises, to what they have done or failed to do. That is the test of a person of any race. My sincere best wishes and an excellent article.
Excellent work! As you have referenced, the sad truth is that the collective IQ of most American adults is under an eighth grade level. Racism and bigotry under the guise of "extreme" ideology and Christian faith is alive and well. Case in point is the srewball commentating that went on over Mark Parsec's article on "Is Obama the AntiChrist." Read the comments. This was a microcosm of America at its sleaziest. This is the energy that saps our nation to the core. We better not be waiting for an independent candidate because their ain't one. We have been on a corrupt and tragic course for eight years and the Republicans will give us more of the same. Hey, if you want to make it a one issue race over pro-life or pro-choice then I guess that's what some will do. But I prefer to think about the war, the economy, and our foreign standing in this world. It is time to regain an honorable footing in the world instead of incessantly talking about a "surge." that is history. Those who are racist will continue their rantings and hide behind their crazy ideology and religion as they make their choice for president. Best wishes.
this process...unfortunately has revealed to many the state of race relations in this country. The world is watching and we're not setting a very good example. Thanks for commenting.
Hi Roschelle -- Excellent article but I'm sorry, Obama just doesn't get my vote. This election has brought grave disappointment to me in all areas and yes, contrary to my many NY associates even Hillary, regardless if she was to be the first woman prez, turned me off -- I don't buy any of those running and for the time being remain independent. What amazes me, beyond the racial comments, is the spirit of most Americans who haven't a clue that we're loosing our freedoms faster than we can take our next breath -- American's are dying of ignorance and apathy; this is NOT the America our forefathers have fought for - people, on the whole, buy into hope and that's what sells. Do I think Obama is the aniti-Christ as James Krehbiel above mentioned from Mark Parsec's article? No, Roschelle, I do not but I don't believe he has the back-up of experience to run our very vulnerable country. Actually, in the state our America is in, I don't trust any of them and wouldn't be surprised if a revolution begins at some time. Our America needs a strong leader in these times and, in my opinion, there ain't any.
Judi, how's things! I agree with your comments. As you already know Obama or McCain no difference but a few cosmetic issues this nation is totally divided on anyway. No where the tire meets the road both failures in all aspects. Why form this opinion? Well it is obvious to those who see and know. I worte my latest to this while writing to this Foreclosure bill another facade that peole, even though educated, seem to buy into. I think my dear freind it is past us at this point and you know what I am speaking to. Hey hug them loved ones and enjoy. That is really what counts. Best wishes and prayers good friend. Robert.
» left by Judi Lake(2,648) Judi Lake (106 days 16 hours ago.)
Hey Robert! How's things? Hectic—I never want to move again; first I was packing now unpacking and Lord knows what Laura will wear for her first day of school. You and I agree on so much which sometimes causes defensive reactions but, as you say, like it or not, it is past the point and people still are sleepwalking... Remember, I always told you that I'd back you and even create all of your campaign stuff if you ever decided to run! (smile) The very best wishes to you my friend and much prayers your way!
Judi, how's things! I agree with your comments. As you already know Obama or McCain no difference but a few cosmetic issues this nation is totally divided on anyway. No where the tire meets the road both failures in all aspects. Why form this opinion? Well it is obvious to those who see and know. I worte my latest to this while writing to this Foreclosure bill another facade that peole, even though educated, seem to buy into. I think my dear freind it is past us at this point and you know what I am speaking to. Hey hug them loved ones and enjoy. That is really what counts. Best wishes and prayers good friend. Robert.
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