Democracy, liberty, opportunity, and unyielding hope!

Last night, our country made a momentous decision. I am so proud to be an American, and the fact that I participated (volunteered at the local campaign office, donated a very small amount of money), gives me great pride. Democracy, liberty, opportunity and unyielding hope - I heard these words last night in Barack Obama's speech, and these ideals should be and are what I strive for. I hope that they are what my children strive for now, and in the future.

As the child of rigid thinking staunch Republicans, I face opposition to my progressive views from a majority of my extended family members. My daughter has had the "joy" of discussing - sometimes arguing - politics with her friends. She shares our views, while many of her friends share their parent's views. We as parents teach our children, but the beautiful thing is ...... they can choose their own views! The idea of LIBERTY, to me, means that we are free to form our viewpoints, and along the way if they are identical to our parents then that is ok, BUT IF NOT THEN THAT IS OK TOO! I ask Lauren to be open-minded, and respectful of other's views, but arm herself with the facts. A lot of ugly, untrue propaganda was out there about Barack Obama, and even though it was out there, he won the election! It was all just a bunch of crap!
We have the opportunity to make a difference, and with that comes UNYIELDING HOPE!
Lastly, the reports on MSNBC said that the world looks at us, and marvels....."how do they (America) do it?" DEMOCRACY works again!