Hope and Grace

It is humbling to be a witness to history. I am so happy for my generation to pass the torch of leadership to the next. Many blessings to President-Elect Obama and VP-Elect Biden and their families. Let the healing begin.

Democracy in Action

I went to the Democratic caucus in my neighborhood last night and it was exciting to see so many people. Minnesota's DFL (Democratic-Farmer-Labor party) caucus attracted the greatest number of people ever. Last night's attendance was 4 times greater than in 2004. I believe the estimated total is over 250,000 attended neighborhood gatherings. This morning's St. Paul Pioneer Press reported that in some precincts they ran out of ballots and used plain paper while in others, the lines were around the block. Caucus leaders asked people to move into the middle of school buildings to allow more folks inside.

People are ready for change and it was evident last night. I live in an ethnically diverse, urban ward. I stood in a corner of the hallway in the large high school where my caucus took place and watched people flood by. The air was positively charged with energy and expectation. Moms and dads pushing strollers, fussy toddlers, elders, groups of young people, inter-generational families - all of us together, casting our votes, discussing the future of our country. More than ready for CHANGE.