I wish that I could be as eloquent in what I want to say as some people I know. I wish what I want to say were poetry without even trying; something that others would want to quote and copy and would be inspirational. I'm not sure that I can achieve that, but here's what I've been thinking about lately in my bumbling babbling sort of way.
Two days ago was Election day in the United States of America. US citizens turned out in record numbers to vote. Not only that, this is the first election in recent times where average, everyday people have been excited, hopeful, and charged up about the candidates. Vigorous debates-not just those on TVs but those by water coolers, in carpools, and on Facebook, have taken place. As an enthusiastic and avid proponent of voting, I was thrilled to see our country so excited and contributing in such large numbers. Tuesday night, November 4th, it was announced that our country had not only spoken, but spoken loudly and clearly that Barak Obama would be our next president. Even John McCain concurred that American had spoken clearly on who it wanted as a president.
On the heels of this high-excitement as a country, record number turn outs to vote, and my personal candidate getting voted in-I was crushed the next morning to see such horrible, disgusting, childish reactions from some people on the turn out. I am not talking about anyone in particular, but am more talking about attitudes of some in general. Perhaps you have heard these sentiments or have said them yourself:
"Be prepared to pay more taxes."
"Be prepared for Socialism and/or Marxism"
"The change America wanted is not positive change"
"Our government will now be taking away liberties"
And even more disgusting and heart wrenching:
"Obama is evil."
"Obama is the devil"
"Obama is the anti-Christ"
"If you are a Christian and voted for Obama, you aren't a Christian at all."
I am so disgusted-and I know I've said that word 3x in as many paragraphs, but it sums up so well what I feel-by these remarks and sentiments. Is it because some are sore losers that these things are being said? Is it because some believe so heavily in their party and candidate that they can't see anything good in something else that these things are being said? Or is it because as a country, for the first time in a very very long time, we were united-somewhat-and enthusiastic about a Democratic candidate? Do Republicans and McCain supporters somehow feel threatened that now feel they need to bring out every insult and bitter thing they can say to take away the joy and unity most of the country is feeling right now?
Here's what I say-to everyone. To the entire United States of America. To every citizen of our great country-Republican, Democratic, Independent, or simple citizen. We are all Americans. We have voted in a President. Let's put aside our bitterness and differences and say that our democratic process has spoken. The election is over. The debates are over. There are no more "battles" to win. Let's now band together as Americans and support our elected President. Because I for one am sick of hearing such childish, biting remarks from naysayers. Remember-we are Americans. Together. We are United. Let's act that way.
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2 comments:
I agree that some people can go over-the-top. It works on both sides. We certainly have seen a lot of hatred directed towards our current president, with nonsense such as "Bush=Hitler" and that sort.
I voted for McCain, without enthusiasm. In my mind he has some pretty bad ideas. Not quite as bad as Obama, but still bad. One example: The McCain-Feingold "campaign finance reform" law is a monstosity and a violation of the constitutional right to free speech. (Yes, the Supreme Court said it was OK, but they've been wrong before.)
Some of what you're hearing is sour grapes. But even sour grapes, to mix a metaphor, can have truth in them. I think that the policies of Obama, if enacted, will make this country less prosperous and more exposed to foreign dangers. They will also make people more dependent on government and by extension the political world, which is bad for the human spirit.
Am I somehow hateful to express those views? I think it's great that we have as a nation overcome institutional racism to the point that we have elected a black man to be president. But that's the only good thing I can see about this election.
Since I value God more than anything else, all this won't kill me. But I'm still gonna have my opinion that the U.S. will be worse off for this decision.
I hear what you're saying April, but it definitely works on both sides. I got A LOT of really nasty comments and attitudes from pro-Obama people BEFORE the election, too. Although I voted Republican, I am not staunchly a Republican, nor do I think McCain was much of a choice either, but I do know the FACTS of what Obama has said he wants to do to taxes, health care, big government, etc. and I agree with "Anonymous" that the U.S. will be worse off for this decision. I'm not a sore loser, it's just that I believe there will be particular outcomes based on the choices made.
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