So, on your mark, get set, . . . . . . the runners have finally decided to get on with the final leg of the relay. Sen. McCain decided not to drop his baton. Let's get serious about hearing the competing visions on the issues. And more importantly, let's hear directly from the persons of which we are looking to for leadership in America. Our throats are parched, the skin is clammy, and our stomachs are grumbling. We have less than 39 days and counting to make up our minds on what we wish to have on the menu of leadership:
An eclectic mix of
Strong Leadership
Compassion
Vision
Judgement
Experience
Intelligence
Smart ideas
Consensus-builder
Integrity
Sprinkled with a dash of core values and any other condiments you wish
I am certainly hungry and I believe the debates will offer up a clear opportunity for the American public to vote up or down the Obama-Biden and McCain-Palin tickets. We have spent countless sleepless hours watching cable television as morsels of appetizers to the main meal: the opportunity to vote. In the interim, we will defer to our current president, congressional leadership, and governmental arms to deal with and resolve any further crises that we are confronted with over the next 39 days. In either event, the next president will have a mountain of mail in his INBOX.
Since my last note, we have had lots of drama and excitement since the end of both Conventions . All in my view - qualify as all distractions and diversions (I paused to reflect). It is imperative that you and your family remain focused on the kitchen sink issues that directly impact your daily lives. Likewise, I implore you to ignore any chain emails purporting to tell you what your voting rights are. Please press delete and refrain from forwarding any YOU WILL NOT BE PERMITTED TO VOTE ALERTS. Let me assure you that there will be countless of lawyers and legal professionals on hand across America to ensure that EVERY VOTE COUNTS. Not this time. No way. No how. You can take this to the bank (ooops, well, wait a second, until bailout bill is signed by the President). It is important that you update your picture identificiation, your voter registration card, and identify when and where you are able to vote in advance. Turnout is going to be extremely high.
If you are hungry for leadership, pick up your knife and fork, grab your napkins, and lick your lips. We are about to enter the phase of the last meal. First stop, Oxford, Mississippi. Do not leave anything on your plate. Mummy is likely to put you in a corner.
Enjoy and eat up!
Friday, September 26, 2008
Saturday, September 6, 2008
America's Next Chapter: CHANGE
America's Next Chapter: CHANGE
Make a contribution - go to http://donate.barackobama.com/page/contribute/SOCAFORCHANGE
Register to vote - go https://www.voteforchange.com/index_obama.php (Deadline - October 6th)
Vote from Abroad: http://www.votefromabroad.org
To Volunteer - go to http://action.barackobama.com/page/s/volunteer
Over the last two weeks, we had the opportunity to listen to the overarching vision, themes, and spirit of the Democratic and Republican Convention. This was probably the first time that most people were interested and engaged in the proceedings of either party. We have heard about race. We have heard about gender. We have heard about faith. We have heard about experience. We have heard about patriotism. Who has it and who doesn't.
As I sat in the Convention hall and in the stadium in Denver, I soaked it all in to put it into perspective. I thought about all those people who are in my family, the circle of friends, and those in receipt of my Blog. I was living the moment for them and with them. It was a priceless opportunity. Having listened to both Conventions gavel to gavel, I concluded, however, that both political parties are a distraction to getting to the bottom of the soul of the candidates at the top of the tickets. In both parties, there are so many polar stakeholders to balance and to appease. In addition, it was also clear to me that both parties are of distinct American cultures and attitudes. You heard it in the music of the floor. You saw it in the attire of the delegates. You saw it in the comparative hues and accents of the delegations. You heard it in the suttle references of east v. west and rural v. urban.
It is very unfortunate that we struggle to find common ground in our politics because our failing to bypass the divisive inferences of our politics. I suspect that both Barack Obama and John McCain both want the best for our country. At the end of the day and this year, America is yearning for a CHANGE. For the next 50 plus days, you have the duty to do the work to make your best judgment on who has the best vision to deliver the CHANGE that you want and need.
So, on your mark, get set, . . . . . .
First presidential debate
Friday, September 26
The University of Mississippi, Oxford, Miss.
Moderator: Jim Lehrer, Executive Editor and Anchor, The NewsHour, PBS
Vice presidential debate
Thursday, October 2
Washington University in St. Louis, Mo.
Moderator: Gwen Ifill - Senior Correspondent, The NewsHour
and Moderator and Managing Editor, Washington Week, PBS
Second presidential debate (town meeting)
Tuesday, October 7
Belmont University, Nashville, Tenn.
Moderator: Tom Brokaw, Special Correspondent, NBC News
Third presidential debate
Wednesday, October 15
Hofstra University, Hempstead, N.Y.
Moderator: Bob Schieffer, CBS News Chief Washington Correspondent, and
Host, Face the Nation
Each debate will begin at 9:00 p.m. EST.
Let's go for the Gold! Join us at www.barackobama.com --- Obama/Biden '08
Find your motivation - click http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2008/9/4/121951/9182
Make a contribution - go to http://donate.barackobama.com/page/contribute/SOCAFORCHANGE
Register to vote - go https://www.voteforchange.com/index_obama.php (Deadline - October 6th)
Vote from Abroad: http://www.votefromabroad.org
To Volunteer - go to http://action.barackobama.com/page/s/volunteer
Over the last two weeks, we had the opportunity to listen to the overarching vision, themes, and spirit of the Democratic and Republican Convention. This was probably the first time that most people were interested and engaged in the proceedings of either party. We have heard about race. We have heard about gender. We have heard about faith. We have heard about experience. We have heard about patriotism. Who has it and who doesn't.
As I sat in the Convention hall and in the stadium in Denver, I soaked it all in to put it into perspective. I thought about all those people who are in my family, the circle of friends, and those in receipt of my Blog. I was living the moment for them and with them. It was a priceless opportunity. Having listened to both Conventions gavel to gavel, I concluded, however, that both political parties are a distraction to getting to the bottom of the soul of the candidates at the top of the tickets. In both parties, there are so many polar stakeholders to balance and to appease. In addition, it was also clear to me that both parties are of distinct American cultures and attitudes. You heard it in the music of the floor. You saw it in the attire of the delegates. You saw it in the comparative hues and accents of the delegations. You heard it in the suttle references of east v. west and rural v. urban.
It is very unfortunate that we struggle to find common ground in our politics because our failing to bypass the divisive inferences of our politics. I suspect that both Barack Obama and John McCain both want the best for our country. At the end of the day and this year, America is yearning for a CHANGE. For the next 50 plus days, you have the duty to do the work to make your best judgment on who has the best vision to deliver the CHANGE that you want and need.
So, on your mark, get set, . . . . . .
First presidential debate
Friday, September 26
The University of Mississippi, Oxford, Miss.
Moderator: Jim Lehrer, Executive Editor and Anchor, The NewsHour, PBS
Vice presidential debate
Thursday, October 2
Washington University in St. Louis, Mo.
Moderator: Gwen Ifill - Senior Correspondent, The NewsHour
and Moderator and Managing Editor, Washington Week, PBS
Second presidential debate (town meeting)
Tuesday, October 7
Belmont University, Nashville, Tenn.
Moderator: Tom Brokaw, Special Correspondent, NBC News
Third presidential debate
Wednesday, October 15
Hofstra University, Hempstead, N.Y.
Moderator: Bob Schieffer, CBS News Chief Washington Correspondent, and
Host, Face the Nation
Each debate will begin at 9:00 p.m. EST.
Let's go for the Gold! Join us at www.barackobama.com --- Obama/Biden '08
Find your motivation - click http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2008/9/4/121951/9182
Thursday, August 28, 2008
An American President
On August 29, 2008, on the 45th anniversary of Dr. King's I Have A Dream Speech, we witnessed together the final makings of American president. Yes, I am being presumptious and speaking it into existence.
After waiting a couple hours in line in the cool Denver sun with about 50,000 other CHANGE agents, I was spiritually calm and patient. This was one of those moments that you would not rush. People smiled and engaged in spontaneous conversations with each other. The air reflected the crisp spirit and tone of Barack Obama. Though you had the occasional whiners (McCain-like), they were overwhelmed with positive vibes.
It was an enormous undertaking to move over 60,000 through two entrances in one line. Upon entering the stadium, the maganamity of the moment was evident. The expectations were high. Other speakers went through the motions, but it was clear that it was Barack's night.
Barack Obama stepped into his stage with his comfortable professorial ease. His tone and delivery elevated to a contrasting substance and climaxed into an ultimatum on any future character assassinations. He reminded the nation and the world of our own personal power.
He closed his re-introduction acceptance speech with a promise to renew America's promise. He claimed his place and purpose. It was a seminal and transforming moment in the orchestra of American history.
We were witnesses and will be forever CHANGED by the making of this American president.
After waiting a couple hours in line in the cool Denver sun with about 50,000 other CHANGE agents, I was spiritually calm and patient. This was one of those moments that you would not rush. People smiled and engaged in spontaneous conversations with each other. The air reflected the crisp spirit and tone of Barack Obama. Though you had the occasional whiners (McCain-like), they were overwhelmed with positive vibes.
It was an enormous undertaking to move over 60,000 through two entrances in one line. Upon entering the stadium, the maganamity of the moment was evident. The expectations were high. Other speakers went through the motions, but it was clear that it was Barack's night.
Barack Obama stepped into his stage with his comfortable professorial ease. His tone and delivery elevated to a contrasting substance and climaxed into an ultimatum on any future character assassinations. He reminded the nation and the world of our own personal power.
He closed his re-introduction acceptance speech with a promise to renew America's promise. He claimed his place and purpose. It was a seminal and transforming moment in the orchestra of American history.
We were witnesses and will be forever CHANGED by the making of this American president.
Today is the Day
Good morning God, you told me that the sun would rise on this day. I am glad it is rising in the Rockies where the sky is big enough to hold the radiating feelings of this historic moment.
We have waited patiently and diligently and now it is here. On Monday, we heard from Michelle as she reminded us of love, family and values. On Tuesday, we heard from Sen. Hillary Clinton as she reminded us of our greater purpose. Then yesterday, we were uplifted by former president Bill Clinton as he restored the power of our example.
Today is the day.
We are the ones we have been waiting for.
This is the moment. Thank you for the opportunity to be here in person to witness it with you.
I am grateful and blessed beyond compare.
We have waited patiently and diligently and now it is here. On Monday, we heard from Michelle as she reminded us of love, family and values. On Tuesday, we heard from Sen. Hillary Clinton as she reminded us of our greater purpose. Then yesterday, we were uplifted by former president Bill Clinton as he restored the power of our example.
Today is the day.
We are the ones we have been waiting for.
This is the moment. Thank you for the opportunity to be here in person to witness it with you.
I am grateful and blessed beyond compare.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Obama-Biden - Change is Here
It's official - Obama and Biden have received the nomination and second from the delegates. The only thing remaining is an acceptance from Barack.
Sen. McCain will try to rain on the stadium in leaking his decision on a VP candidate. No way ... No how ... No McCain
The Democratic party is increasingly energized and it is this motivation that will move us closer to CHANGE. Biden is making the case for CHANGE needed against his good friend McCain. In fact, he is laying out the specific policies for the ticket's platform for CHANGE.
The Hall is an orchestra of political drama. The vessel is preparing its people for POWER to flow through.
The river is expected to overflow tomorrow at Invesco field.
The world will stop.
Join the movement - go to http://donate.barackobama.com/page/contribute/SOCAFORCHANGE and be on the right side of history.
Sen. McCain will try to rain on the stadium in leaking his decision on a VP candidate. No way ... No how ... No McCain
The Democratic party is increasingly energized and it is this motivation that will move us closer to CHANGE. Biden is making the case for CHANGE needed against his good friend McCain. In fact, he is laying out the specific policies for the ticket's platform for CHANGE.
The Hall is an orchestra of political drama. The vessel is preparing its people for POWER to flow through.
The river is expected to overflow tomorrow at Invesco field.
The world will stop.
Join the movement - go to http://donate.barackobama.com/page/contribute/SOCAFORCHANGE and be on the right side of history.
The Power of Example and the Example of Power
In the Hall, previous speakers spoke over personal chatter. Pres. Bill Clinton has retaken the stage not to be undone by his wife. Classic Bill.
After a very symbolic introduction from Congressman Kendrick Meek, his speech is littered with the right political tone. The Hall is electric!
We are about to return to a place called Hope.
Braaaaaaaaaaaaam!
After a very symbolic introduction from Congressman Kendrick Meek, his speech is littered with the right political tone. The Hall is electric!
We are about to return to a place called Hope.
Braaaaaaaaaaaaam!
Let's Talk About Power
Today's lesson boys and girls is about a word that many people do not like to talk about: POWER!
Who has it? What do they do with it? or Where does it manifest itself?
It is 8pm EST and I am sitting in one of America's platforms of power. Under the US Constitution, we have three independent branches of POWER - the legislative, the judiciary, and the one presently on the stage - the EXECUTIVE.
I ran into a fraternity brother and Obama supporter from South Carolina and he noted three important rules of POWER:
1. POWER exists.
2. POWER flows through people and
3. People have the POWER to be powerful.
In the Democratic party, we are witnessing a reallocation of power. Bill and Hillary Clinton have built the power base of the party for years. Their political allies and staff and business associates have benefitted from their access to this POWER.
During my visit this rookie witness to this vestibule of POWER, there is a clear struggle for access to POWER with the political aquarirum of Clinton and Obama supporters. Who has access to certain posh hotel accommodations? Who is special credentials to the Hall floor or to the hot parties? It was also glaring that the POWER also flows through the checkbook.
In the company merger of the Democratic party of the Clinton-Obama factor, the pursuit or retention of POWER distracts the real purpose for CHANGE we can believe in.
Last night, Senator Clinton used her personal power to endorse her support for Sen.Obama and also inspired her supporters and others to do the same. Even if privately she may have harbored the pains of a loss, she made the party more powerful in overlooking her own ambitions.
We are awaiting the speeches of Pres. Bill Clinton and Sen. Joe Biden to share their own thoughts on how they wish to utilize their own power.
Stay tuned for feedback.
We have POWER - let's use it wisely for the common good.
Who has it? What do they do with it? or Where does it manifest itself?
It is 8pm EST and I am sitting in one of America's platforms of power. Under the US Constitution, we have three independent branches of POWER - the legislative, the judiciary, and the one presently on the stage - the EXECUTIVE.
I ran into a fraternity brother and Obama supporter from South Carolina and he noted three important rules of POWER:
1. POWER exists.
2. POWER flows through people and
3. People have the POWER to be powerful.
In the Democratic party, we are witnessing a reallocation of power. Bill and Hillary Clinton have built the power base of the party for years. Their political allies and staff and business associates have benefitted from their access to this POWER.
During my visit this rookie witness to this vestibule of POWER, there is a clear struggle for access to POWER with the political aquarirum of Clinton and Obama supporters. Who has access to certain posh hotel accommodations? Who is special credentials to the Hall floor or to the hot parties? It was also glaring that the POWER also flows through the checkbook.
In the company merger of the Democratic party of the Clinton-Obama factor, the pursuit or retention of POWER distracts the real purpose for CHANGE we can believe in.
Last night, Senator Clinton used her personal power to endorse her support for Sen.Obama and also inspired her supporters and others to do the same. Even if privately she may have harbored the pains of a loss, she made the party more powerful in overlooking her own ambitions.
We are awaiting the speeches of Pres. Bill Clinton and Sen. Joe Biden to share their own thoughts on how they wish to utilize their own power.
Stay tuned for feedback.
We have POWER - let's use it wisely for the common good.
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