High Expectations

The voting public spoke loudly and clearly during the November 2008 election. After 8 years of a Republican administration and Republican-majority senate, the electorate chose to turn in the direction of the Democrats. This seems a clear message that change is wanted and expected.

It's heartening to note that president-elect Obama was ready-to-go with the necessary transition plans. Much is expected of the man who will become presisdent of the United States on January 20, 2009--both by the people who supported him with their votes and perhaps even more by those who voted for his opponent.

It isn't unusual that those who supported the defeated politician would have some "sour apple" feelings about the man who won. During this transition period from election day to inauguration day, everyone needs to remember that Obama is not yet president, but his actions, decisions, and words will be vital to note as they will begin to reveal the leader the man will shortly become.

Much is expected of the strongly Democratic congress that will convene in 2009 and perhaps even more of the man who will lead the nation. Obama's successes or failures will be the measure of many factors, but none of those factors have to do with his race--or the race of any American constituent.

Our new president and congress will need the input and support of the American people. None of our elected officials can guess what's on our minds or what action we wish them to take on issues if we don't make our thoughts known. Write or email your elected officials--not just on the national level, but also on the local level, or make phone calls. Most elected people want to hear from their constituents, and if yours doesn't, remember that come next election.

For now, take inventory of the issues which matter most to you and begin to make those issues known to the newly elected and the incumbents. And let's pray for the strength of our nation--no matter who our leaders are.