Aug 25 2008
I Will Follow Him
Four years ago, I listened to Barack Obama speak at the Democratic Convention. He was virtually unknown to most. As a Chicagoan, I knew who he was. I came to know him even more as he ran for Senate.
The feeling I had that night hearing him speak has never left me.
Obama ’s speech moved and elevated me in a way that I had never experienced. He was reminiscent of Dr. King whose words I have only heard in recording or read on paper. Whose words still move me when I hear them or read them even now. I remember thinking that I would follow that man, Obama , anywhere.
Fast forward to the present day.
I will admit that I was supporting Hillary Clinton. To me, it did not matter much which one of them won the nomination. They were equal in my eyes. I was supporting Hillary because I am a woman and I would love to see a woman in the White House.
When it became clear that Obama was going to be the nominee, I was just as happy as if it were Hillary. Some of my family members were not. They were 100% behind Hillary, even some that are Republicans. They had said all along that if Obama took it (the nomination) that they would vote for McCain.
They don’t like Obama . I’ve tried reasoning with them, but have not succeeded thus far. Fortunately, I have a few more months. They think Obama is too green. They think he is not ready yet. Maybe in the future, but not now.
My mom, well, she just doesn’t like Michelle Obama . She thinks Michelle is arrogant.
I hope she changes her opinion after hearing Michelle speak tonight.
Even though I live on the other side of the world, Ihave been keenly following the Obama story for well over a year.I think he is intelligent and compassionate,and truly does have a vision for a better future (long overdue). Ilike Hillary, but feel she would have bought a little too much baggage to the White house.Let’s hope Novemberdelivers a breath of fresh to U.S.politcal life!
@Renee, she does seem very real. She came off so personable and kind during her speech.
@kezza, I hope for that too! We need some serious change and it can’t come quick enough.
I wonder why you mom perceives her as arrogant. Could it have something to do with her race?
@kdgriffin, I don’t think it’s her race. I think that sometimes some people who are very confident can come off as arrogant to some. I think that is the case here. Michelle carries herself with a lot of confidence. I also think that the media has added to this. They keep comparing her to Jackie O, which for some people my mom’s age is blasphemy. Jackie O is like a princess to them, especially being they were around when JFK was killed.
i agree, michelle is very confident woman, and sometimes, confidence can be mistaken as arrogance. saw her speech, and for me, adding a personal touch to Obama’s side just made it a lot more convincing.
betchai, I think that personal aspect is what she needed to show. I saw her giving an interview and as she spoke about the kids missing their daddy, you could see her get choked up. I think people are starting to view her as a real person.