I really am glad that the election is over and the commercials are done and (hopefully) the bickering can die down now.
I told myself not to say anything more about the whole deal. I think I am still kinda telling myself to shut up, but my fingers are still typing so here goes…
Shawn came over last night and we sat up and watched the polls close and the states get called for McCain or Obama and the areas on the digital maps turn blue or red. When Ohio followed Pennsylvania’s lead and was called in favor of Obama, there was no doubt the election was over. I sat there thinking some day I am going to say ‘I remember just where I was when the first African American President was elected’. It was a surreal moment for me. We watched as Brit Hume and the Fox News crew panned back and forth between the McCain camp in Arizona and the party in Chicago and the news room. We listened as an African American talking head at Fox News choked back the tears to continue his job of reporting the polls. As Grant Park filled with more people than could be counted, the cameras zoomed in on faces of the Americans that were there, I felt a lump rising in my throat.
My parents are both white and yet, my family is colorful. I have two younger brothers who are biracial. Little Josh’s dad is African American and Joe, whose hardly little anymore, we think is half Indian (his dad is not known). In my lifetime, my parents have fostered well over 30 foster kids, many of whom were not white. Growing up in small town where only two non-white kids attended my High School and others had confederate flags hanging in their trucks, I learned about racism very early… on the playground, to be exact. I was in the fourth grade and I remember it clearly. A boy named Jake called me a “n@%&*@% lover” because he had seen my family at a school open house. I had zero idea what that word even was, but I knew it wasn’t a compliment. That evening I had a conversation with my mom that opened my eyes to the evil of racism. It went something like this:
“Mom, what is a n*@%*#?”
“Katie (I went by Katie back then), that is a very unkind word for black people.”
She says I just stared at her.
“Katie, you have noticed some of the girls have brown skin, right? And there hair feels different than yours?”
“Yeah…” I still wasn’t getting it.
“Well, some people don’t like people with brown skin.”
“Why!?!”
“Because they have brown skin and its different than ours.”
“So?”
“I know, baby, it doesn’t make any sense.”
I remember that she didn’t really try to explain it to me more than that, because although there’s a lot that could be said about race relations in America, the bottom line is disliking people on the basis of their appearance really doesn’t make sense.
I go to a largely African American church in the same hick small town I grew up in. I sit under a pastor who is African American (and who I would bet money didn’t vote for Obama- thankfully he kept politics out of the pulpit so I can’t be sure) I know what it feels like to take my little brothers into the grocery store and get stared at while people try to figure out if they are mine. I know prejudice is real. I know racism is still with us.
And I know the election wasn’t about race. Obama gets my utmost respect for running as a man and not a ‘black man’.
But I would be a liar to say that I am not proud to have seen the first African American man (a biracial man to boot!) elected as President in my lifetime. For all of the things we may disagree about, I am proud of my country. I am proud to live in a country where a person of mixed heritage who wasn’t born into money can work hard and succeed to the point of being elected President. Whatever political side you fall on, it was a proud moment for our country.
Shawn had left by the time Obama spoke, so I sat on the couch and cried alone. I didn’t vote based on race (there were certainly more important things to consider) but I couldn’t help but think of all of the little non-white boys and girls, not unlike my brothers, who will grow up knowing that its not only the wealthy white people who can be leaders. They will read in their text books about the Civil Rights Movement and this election when both a woman and a man with brown skin ran for the highest office in the country, and the idea that this was impossible will be incredulous to them… because they will grow up knowing the color of their skin isn’t a limitation.
I am thankful, despite the things we disagree on, that Obama is a good man. I am thankful he’s married and says things about his wife like “she’s a rock” and “she’s the love of my life” and kisses her on a stage in front of the whole world. I am thankful he tears up when he speaks of his daughters and is publicly affectionate with them. I hope that the public nature of his life and his integrity as a hard worker and family man will give a new vision to the African American community that has lacked for public role models of his stature. I personally know so many wonderful non-white men who work hard and love their families, but all too often the only African American men glorified in the media are provocative and angry . Too long the stereotypes have overshadowed and even perpetuated an incorrect idea of what means to be an African American man.
I know a lot of Christians are nervous about this… aren’t we all a little? Our nation is in crisis and this man, our President Elect, is stepping into the one of the hardest jobs in the world at a crucial time in history. He says he is a man of faith, and I hope now we can all set aside our differences to make room to pray for him…and not just to say it or to say in a condescending way, but to really and truly pray for this man. Let us ask God to impart to him wisdom and to grip his heart so that no matter what comes his way, his feet can be planted firmly in Jesus.
You no doubt saw the crowds in the streets, cheering and chanting, and the close ups of people crying. My mom woke up this morning to two little boys who wanted to know “Did Obama win?” She sat them down on the couch and told them “yes, he did” and she said they went nuts. Now, both of my parents were undecided and neither one will tell how they voted (I suspect they voted differently) but my brothers didn’t hear pro-Obama speeches over the last year. Mom did tell them this is the first time someone who looks like them has ever been President….
(thanks Casey for passing along this image)
and even at their young age, that connected. They are the only two non-white students in their school. I suspect they are learning the ropes even earlier than I did.
I voted yesterday differently than I had thought I would last week. It doesn’t matter really who I voted for- that is between God and I. I didn’t know how I would feel if McCain won. I didn’t know how I would feel if Obama won. But I was proud to be an American last night. Proud to live in a country where there can be elections without riots and people can vote without fear and the idea of a coo doesn’t even cross our minds. I am proud to live in a country where people are beginning to live out the dream of the great Martin Luther and people can be judged “not by the color of their skin but the content of their character”. I was proud of McCain’s speech- it made me cry too. The graciousness of the war hero in his concession blessed my heart.
All politics aside, I am moved today my colorful family, my colorful Church, and my colorful nation.
Let us all move forward hoping in Jesus with our eyes fixed on him and in prayer for everything else.
**I think this post by my old pastor in Seattle is really insightful**
What you just said is what I wanted to say on my blog, but I’m not a writer…I’m better with silence and a camera!
Thank you for this…
Great post!! I have never been so undecided in my life, there is no doubt our country has a long way to go as far as racism. It’s sad that we judge people based on skin color. My niece is biracial and people will stare at my sister-in-iaw when she goes grocery shopping or whatever. It really drives me crazy how judgmental people can be!
I didn’t realize that Richard Dahlstrom was your former pastor – I read his blog all the time! I especially enjoyed reading the post you referenced here.
Ditto everything you said. It’s no secret that I voted for Obama, but I think (and hope) we can all be very, very proud of our nation today.
I agree totally. I have a very colorful family as well, so I totally get where you’re coming from!!
yes, he is bi-racial…though i am very hesitant to call him african american. he has 1/8 african in him…but he is just as much european-american and caucasian as he is african. i am happy he has pretty brown skin, wherever it came from, so that young boys like joe and josh can realize their possibilities are endless and they, too, can become whatever they want to w/out being limited by societal stereotypes.
yes, I am proud to live somewhere where race doesn’t matter. but can you honestly say it didn’t matter Kate? it did. you can’t kid yourself about that. how do you explain that this time THIS time people came out in droves to vote? Why not the last election or the one before that? Did those elections not matter? And I know that SOME did make an informed decision. But many many did not. Just this morning when I had 3 people come in to my class gloating about Obama winning and saying all sorts of things (not every one of them was black either) trying to rub it in my face because they knew i supported mccain, I just asked them some questions about what Obama stood for. they either could not answer or answered incorrectly. THAT is what is sad. you think race didn’t matter. It did. Do I think that he is a bad person? well, bad people can still do some good things and vice versa. yes, he says he is a man of faith. WHAT faith? Read the book THE FAITH OF BARAK OBAMA and see just what his faith entails. you can’t pick apart the Bible and only believe the parts that make you FEEL good or SEEM right to you. And just because you can’t reason some things in there out doesn’t make them not true. And btw, what I think makes this a historical election, the thing that most people forget, what makes it historical is the fact that every one of us was FREE. FREE to get out and go vote the way WE chose. No one told us how we had to vote (generally speaking). You made your own decision. That’s history. It may not be long that the Iraqi people are over here helping US to fight for our freedoms. didn’t mean to go on like that. and I hope you know I love you. nothing about you. i just want us to be honest. it makes me sad that what i have heard over and over and over since last night is about the color of his skin. not so much about him. if we would quit teaching people about their “rights” and start teaching about “responsibility” instead, maybe things really would be different. i do agree that it is our responsibility to seek God and be in prayer, real prayer for him. He will need every single prayer that can be lifted.
I teared up a lot last night too! I am very hopeful for our nation and excited to see where we go in the next four years. I am also celebrating the fact that anyone, regardless of race, can succeed in America.
I just read Maya Angelou’s “I know why the Caged Bird sings” and have such a new perspective on things.
I really like this post, Kate. You know I really disagree with Obama, and I’m not glad he was elected…that said, I was last night also amazed and glad that a black man was elected President. It is SUCH a step forward, and I am also glad for the role model he will be to SO MANY. Hopefully this can be a stepping stone to greater reconciliation and maybe even stir some repentance and forgiveness for our country’s terrible history with slavery…
Beautiful, beautiful post, Kate. My children are Bulgarian and dark-skinned, and when we adopted them we became a non-white family. I am overjoyed that they are watching this historical moment at ages where they will remember it and know that they won’t be limited by the color of their skin or their gender.
People seem to conveniently overlook the fact that what the USA is basically, is a colorful family.
Ashley,
We are friends and I value you which is why I feel like its ok to answer some of your remarks in this public area of comments.
I wanted to answer your question about whether or not Barack Obama was elected because of his brown skin. I got these statistics from http://www.foxnews.com (which is of course, the most conservative media outlet around)
-African American voters made up a MERE 13% of the total voters, and that’s only up 2% from the last election
-As a whole African American voters have hugely supported Democratic candidates (90% in 2000 & 88% in 2008) So yes, the whole 13% of them did support Obama 95% of the time, but that’s hardly a majority (certainly NOT enough to result in the kind of win he had)
Factors that seem to affect Obama’s support:
-75% of voters felt the country is not moving in the right direction and 62% of people who felt that way voted for Obama
-the majority of voters (63%) said the economy was their #1 issue and 53% of those voters chose Obama
-89% of voters who wanted change voted for Obama
-57% of voters felt that Obama was more in touch with their lives (McCain got 39%)
-young voters support Obama 66% of the time (18-30yrs)
-new voters supported Obama 68% of the time
-most people who identify with a party, stuck with their party…but independents supported Obama 52% of the time
-women chose Obama : 56%
-men chose Obama by a very slight majority 49%
So while I agree that race was important- I do think some people voted for him just because of the color of his skin; just like I know some racist people on both sides of the aisle would vote for Hitler before any black person! But I really truly don’t think the color of his skin decided the election.
I personally think he won because he is inspirational, people believe he has the will to bring about change, and more people can identify with him (not just on the demographic of color- this man has paid college loans and doesn’t come from $ or have a politically significant background, etc) than can identify with the wealth of someone like McCain. I also think the economy played a huge role…people believe in his tax ideas.
Those things don’t represent my reasons for voting, but I think the numbers are telling… apparently others did vote on those dimensions.
I think more people came out to vote because he’s inspirational. Its been a long time since we had a truly well spoken, inspiring candidate. It doesn’t mean people were well-informed (although I certainly don’t think him winning means people WEREN’T) but it does mean he has the ability to move people. His words, his story connected with the American people. I think the fact that he’s not from money but is a “self made man” who pulled himself up and achieved so much inspired new voters. I really do. He seems more like “us” in terms of finances and life experience than the last string of presidents and presidential candidates who were born into a life of politics, you know? I think the possibility of someone different (and not JUST in color) is what brought people out.
I would venture to say not enough of us were informed about the election. I don’t think just the obama voters lack knowledge. I mean, c’mon…that’s a sickness of the country, not just of Democrats!
I would caution you to make conclusions about anyone’s faith based on a book called “The Faith of _____”. Really. Did you read either of Obama’s books? I did. I read what the man had to say for himself. I am also watching what he does. BUT I know I cannot judge his faith- that is something only God can discern because God is the ONLY ONE who knows what is in his heart. We can judge the fruit of his life and his actions, but we must be careful never to extrapolate those judgments in such a way that we begin to make conclusions about his heart, his faith or his salvation. That’s dangerous territory. Similarly, I chose not to read the book of a similar title about George Bush.
I do think he’s wrong about some things- particularly abortion. I voted on some of those differences too. But I in no way think that disqualifies him from being a Christian. I have certainly been wrong about things- even important things!- and changed my mind. I am sure I will look back on my 20’s and know things I don’t know now and be convicted of things I thought I was right about…its the nature of faith to be on a journey. I pray I am on the journey I profess and have similar hopes for the man who is to be the next President of the free world.
I have to disagree that last night was ONLY about the color of his skin. I do think his election is hope for a lot of people who aren’t black and voted for change more than color. Still, of course last night was history making! And important! It IS a huge step forward in terms of racial tension in this country. It IS a big deal that we will have the first non-white president. It is history making that we are free to choose…I agree with that. But please don’t discount the historical significance of what has taken place. As a white person, I know I cannot really understand what it must be like to be African American this morning. And I think those of us who don’t have slavery in our recent history should be careful to not trod on the beauty of what this means for those who do.
Do you really not see the significance of a black man getting elected?
As far as “rights” and “responsibility” go, I am not sure what you are getting at, but I have to admit, it rubs me the wrong way… THe two go together… hand in hand. The balance should not be toward one more than the other. People who have rights have responsibility. We don’t need to hammer those who have been discriminated against by insinuating that they don’t know how to be responsible! And I am sorry, but only a mere 40 years after the Civil Rights Movement, African Americans (many who lived back then) have a reason to assert their rights. We ALL, regardless of color or age or income, have rights and responsibilities. It is a monumentous moment in history when the actual rights (not just the ones in we write down as law) reach a moment of equality when a non-white person is elected to the highest office in the country. Please don’t minimize the impact of this on our non-white friends and family and neighbors and fellow Americans
My mom always has said (of being a foster parent) children usually live up to what you expect of them- if you expect them to be a screw up, they will be; if you believe they will reach their potential, they will succeed. In a similar way, I hope Obama’s belief in this country and his example will encourage those who have not been responsible financially, socially and in their own families to reach for something higher.
Great post, Kate. Although I didn’t vote for Obama (honestly I wasn’t crazy about McCain either), watching this historic moment unfold on t.v. was amazing. I was like you, Kate, and wanted to remember where I was and what it was like when our first black president was elected. I hope that he can be an inspiration to children of color all across this nation. We have come a long way.
The most important thing to me now is to pray, pray, pray. I firmly believe that God is the one in control and He appoints leaders. He appointed Obama and right now I can see one wonderful reason is that perhaps God’s people will be praying more than ever before.
I think back to your posts about Jesus and his kingdom. His kingdom is where my true allegiance lies. No matter what happens in this country my citizenship is in heaven. That doesn’t mean I won’t pray and work any less for blessings in America, just that I have a different perspective. And because of this perspective my hope is secure.
i love this post. the next time someone asks me how i feel about the election im going to point them here. 🙂
and after reading comments & re-reading your post, I will say this. whether race played a large, small, or non-existent roll in this election is of no matter. because what we know to be true is that God is in control. He has not been caught my surprise. He is not afraid of what happens next. “He changes times and seasons; He sets up kings and deposes them.” (Daniel 2:21) why are we allowing RACE to take the victory? why give credit to RACE of what God did? Why is it so hard to say “God I believe that YOU ARE GOOD & that YOU ARE IN CONTROL” why do we waste our breath blaming race when we should be believing God?
“Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” Romans 13:1
regardless of the faith of Barack Obama, our faith is not in Presidents or Politics or a thriving economy. i am thankful that in all times, regardless or my personal conviction and how it does or doesn’t line up with our Commander in Chief, i am able to trust in the hand of God who establishes authorities here on earth. Regardless of my finite mind’s ability to comprehend the “why”, my Abba is faithful, He is good, & HE CAN BE TRUSTED.
thanks for writing this post, kate. 🙂
Amen sister, amen.
It’s such a great movie. It’s just SO sad. The whole time I was watching it I just kept thinking “I can’t believe this really happened.” It’s one of those things where you’re on the edge of your seat wanting to scream at the screen because you’re so mad about what they’re doing – at least that’s how I felt. Let me know what you think about it! I want to go see The Secret Life of the Bees too…especially after your thoughts on it!
Well…. I struggle with you Ms. KAte cause sometimes I cannot agree with you more(those stinking word codes you have to enter when leaving comments drive me bonkers! :)), and others I cannot find a single ounce of common ground to stand on. But I have to remember, your first allegiance is to our Heavenly Father. And above all, I respect that you and I will be in His kingdom together.
That being said….
I have NEVER ONCE viewed this election as having anything to do with race. If someone even brought up the issue my mind had already moved on to other issues…abortion, gay rights…the total lack of anything war related experience.
I never once felt pride last night. Because I could care less is Mr Obama is black. Honeslty. I do not judge people based on it so it held no signifigance for me. The fact that he kissed his wife? Big whoop. The fact that he tears up when he talks about his daughters? Not real to me. Hes a public speaker. He also said that if his daughters made the mistake of getting pregnant he wouldn’t want them to be punished with a baby. Not someone with the highest reguard to human life to me.
And inspirational? Just what in fact is so inspiring about him? That he went to college? Uh, millions do that every year. That he has bi-racial parents? I can think of far more trying issues that many contend with.
He never once inspired me to do anything but feel more passionately about the right to life. Something he is opposed too.
I think that anyone that sat through those events last night and felt proud and excited about the future of this country…well. I dont want to finish that. i am trying to respect you.
I truly believe that this country is in a moral decline. What is the difference between the United States and Sodom and Gomorrah? They were destroyed for wickedness, blasphemy, bloodshed, homosexuality, perverseness… I really dont see how the good ole US is any differnt.
And when you elect a LEADER that has said blasphemeous things about the BIBLE (visit equip.org for soundbite), promotes the murder of babies through law, doesn’t value human life, and wants to make being gay in this country easier legally…well… you have a leader being praised for his accessibility to sin.
I pray that we as Chrisitans WILL unite and pray for this man that he may change his wicked ways and come to the Lord.
If not, I will find a small amount of pleasure in one year wearing my,
“Dont blame me, I voted for McCain” shirt. 😉
God bless-
Amanda
Kate,
I live in Coldwater Ohio, about 1hr away from you in Bellefountaine. I live in a town where, until 2 years ago, my family was the only African American family, everyone else was either White or there were a few Mexicans. I also live in a town where nearly 100% of the town is Catholic, I’m not, I’m Protestant. I go to a school where I never saw another African American student besides my sister, one of my older brothers [I have 4 older brothers & only one of them is African American] & I until I was a Freshman & saw another student who was a Senior & students in elementary school started coming. Sadly, & oddly, I live in Mercer County which is known as the most racsist county in Ohio – & I’ve heard, possibly in America.
During the past few weeks I kept thinking about the election & was almost thankful that I’m only 17 & not old enough to vote because I had no idea who I’d vote for. I had heard very little about McCain & what he stood for or planned on doing once in the White House; & I had heard tons about Obama & heard him speak on tv more than a few times; & I agreed with some of the things he planned on doing & shuddered at the thought of some. But at at around 11 last night I sat on my bedroom floor right in front of the tv & listened to McCain speak & humbly accept what the outcome was. And at 11:30 last night I sat, eyes glued on the tv, waiting for Obama to take the stage. And when he walked out I started to weep like a baby. I lost it. Suddenly every racsist thing I have experienced since I was 5 years old replayed in my mind & I wept realizing that things were suddenly changing. I ran out of my bedroom to hear my dad say, “Teresa, Big Mommy [ my great grandma] is 104 years old, Teresa, she never expected to see this!” & I looked my parents in the eyes & said, “I never thought I’d see this either! I’m in awe; I’m proud.” And I went back in my bedroom to hear Obama speak & wept uncontrolably; I honestly thought I’d never see this come, & yet I’m so young & I live in the 21st century, but I thought I’d die before this happened.
I sat there & thanked God for this opportunity, & I sat there & prayed that God would be the Leader of this Nation, that God would lead Obama & his decisions, & that I’d trust that God would continue to be faithful no matter what Obama may plan to do in the White House.
I may not be thrilled about some of Obama’s plans once he’s in the White House… infact, some of them make me shudder & cry out, “God help us!” But I am over-joyed to have been able to witness an African American become President… a devoted Christian like Huckabee run, a Latino man run, & a woman run. This election is history.
Thanks for writing! Sorry this was such a long response!
Kate, I didn’t say that it was ONLY about race. What I said was that we shouldn’t act like it didn’t have anything to do with it for many people. I do agree that he is an inspirational speaker. I think that he is one of the best speech givers we have ever had. I do think he has the ability to draw people in with his words and make them believe we can do better. But sometimes I think we don’t see past that. As for the book, I know the writer of both of those. He is a family member and interviewed him. everything came from him and Yes i did read the others. I agree that there were many on both sides that were uninformed. And yes I do see the significance of a black man being elected. I have seen the significance of every president that has been elected. As far as the rights vs responsibility thing, all I’m saying is that sometimes we put waaay too much emphasis on the rights and not enough on the responsibility. I may feel that I have the right to a lot of things. But if I search the scripture, a lot of those times I find that my responsibility in the situation trumps my right. That doesn’t have anything to do with color and was not meant to sound one sided. And I completely agree with your mom. I pray that it does give many hope to reach higher and dream bigger. As for the stats I wrote down my own last night too, but can’t find the paper right now. But that’s not really the point. I don’t mean to rub anyone the wrong way and that was not my intention. If I did it to you or anyone that read my comment I sincerely ask for your forgiveness. Regardless of how I feel about him personally, which by the way doesn’t have anything to do with the color of his skin,(I would have gladly voted for him had he stood differently on several issues,) I have committed him to prayer just like I did Bush beginning last night.
I
This post was AMAZING, Kate. I was in tears last night as Obama spoke. It was such a historical, truly inspiring night!
Hey Kate! Thanks so much for your comments on my blog today! I really appreciate that.
We are also a multicolored, international family. We have 2 bio daughters (white) and 1 son from Guatemala. We’re also in process to adopt an African American child.
I didn’t vote for Obama and like many have some fundamental differences with him, but I did sit and watch his speech with tears in my eyes by what I was witnessing. It truly is history and I’m excited for our future child to know that he/she is coming into a world that judges less and less on the color of the skin.
I am curious about your brothers…how they have felt being in a white family, etc. We’ve obviously been thinking about this a lot lately and wondering what our child will feel. We do live in a very diverse community with very colorful schools, etc. which is great.
This is not about the election, but you should check out my cousin’s blog. My cousin and his wife live in North Minneapolis and are my age (mid-20’s). In addition to one biological infant, they are on the brink of adopting 4 foster siblings who are black, as well as another black infant from separate parents. I am amazed by their love and dedication for these children, wanting to raise each and every one of them as their own, to teach them to love and serve God. They are in the midst of parental rights trials and all the stuff I’m sure you’re parents have gone through. Again, they are MY age!!! And have 6 kids!!! And both my cousin and his wife are as blond-haired and blue-eyed as you can get! To gain access to their blog you need to get an invite. I could send your email along if you’d like.
http://partyatourhouse.blogspot.com/
Amanda,
Thanks for dropping by the blog and commenting. We don’t see eye to eye all of the time and that’s ok. It makes me a little sad that that makes you struggle with me… (of course, I may ascribe different meanings to that phrase than you do too) Just the same, thanks for being respectful and even taking the time to acknowledge, different as we may see things, that we belong to the same God and Kingdom.
I didn’t view the election as being about race either. I was just writing about how I felt last night when I realized we had elected the first African American president. I voted in line with my beliefs (which probably aren’t different from yours at the core) but when the moment came, I felt proud that I live in a country of freedom where the color of someone’s skin doesn’t hold them back. I proud to see that its even possible for a black man to get elected! That was really my point. I disagree with him on abortion HUGELY. I wasn’t talking about his politics, but rather just the sheer excitement that that glass ceiling had been broken through for those who come ahead.
Did you really not feel any sense of pride that we live in a free nation that is so open to people who look differently? I dunno…we might just have to agree to disagree on that one. I don’t care for a lot of his politics, but setting him aside, I am proud to live in a place where anyone can aspire to hold leadership positions. Its just not that way very many places on earth and honestly, I didn’t think it was possible here.
It did bless me that he said those things about his wife. And maybe that’s because I haven’t heard it much from politicians and probably its a little more person for me as someone who has s husband who stands on a stage… so seeing women acknowledged by their husbands touches a really deep place in me. I don’t think its fair to say his emotion toward his daughters isn’t real just because he’s pro-choice. Even pro-choice people can love their children. I doubt that’s what you meant…(communicating without tone of voice and facial expressions sometimes can be hard)
I do find it inspirational that a little biracial boy whose dad was not in his life (who in fact, was raised primarily by his grandparents) went to college. And not just to college, Amanda- HARVARD. And not just to HARVARD but he also was the first non-white PRESIDENT OF THE HARVARD LAW REVIEW. Millions of people every year do not do that. And again, it gets personal for me because of my family and my work… I grew up with many multiple foster children… from broken families ,without fathers and I know how many of them don’t go to college or get to have big dreams about their lives. So that is inspirational to me. I don’t think it has to be inspiring to everyone, but it obviously is for some.
I also agree our country is in a moral decline…but I don’t think it has much to do with Obama. We’ve BEEN in a moral decline. Even as I look back on my own short life, I can see how things hae changed. When I was in 8th grade, I remember the first girl who kissed a boy. Now, national studies are showing how many children younger than that know how to perform oral sex. Child abuse is on the rise, pornography is our second largest industry, child prostitution and teen pregnancy are rampant, and worst of all (to me) the Church would rather stand in judgment of the world then get into the mess with people and love them and show them Christ- and not just through our t-shirts and bumper stickers and billboards and yes, our political votes.
Where we probably would disagree is that I don’t think the US is to blame. I don’t think its a political condition- I think its a spiritual one. We can change policies all day long but it wont rend the hearts of a people. We’ve had a godly president for 8 years- has morality in the country increased? I haven’t seen that.
To me, Christians need to be Christians- salt and light- right where they are- that’s really the only chance any country or even the world has. There is no other answer than Jesus for all of these problems- abortion included. But since we can’t elect Jesus (don’t think he’d be into running anyway), I think we are best off loving the people around us and praying for opportunities to share our convictions in love and truth when God opens a line of communication. Jesus was taken seriously because He didn’t just stand and preach, but he also healed and ate dinners with sinners and showed himself to be less interested in aligning politically and more interested in bringing the Kingdom of God to earth through His life.
Anyway… I still like you. Honestly. We may disagree on things, but thats ok…we’ve lived different lives that have touched different people and situations. I don’t think that had to bless everyone last night, but it did me. I am not proud to have a pro-choice president, I am proud to live in a country where slaves can become leaders. That was my point.
Sorry this is as long as a book.:) Being short winded isn’t something I get accused of. *grin*
Wow! These are super heated comments!
I think it’s important to turn our hearts and thoughts away from what we may have thought should have happened (if you wished for a different outcome of the election, like me), towards our calling and identity as believers.
I found some links today that are good for the soul and helpful for our perspective after the election. If you’re having a hard time, they are especially helpful. Check them out on my blog: thegloryofgrace.blogspot.com.
p.s. You are so right about the church, Kate, and our need to be salt and light where we are – that’s really convicting. Let’s hope in Christ right now, regardless of politics and the election, and remember that He is working all things for good and for His glory. I appreciate your thoughts and taking the time to write these things, Kate!
You know, one thing I really wish is that we can all stop being cynical… I appreciate your comments, Kate, about being blessed watching Obama on stage with his family, (and I too understand from the point of view of being married to a man who works from the stage at times)… Anyway, why is it that people have to cynically assume that he’s putting on a show for the cameras and the public?
Perhaps.
But perhaps not. Let’s assume the best. In the event that we’re wrong? In due time, it might show. It might not. But we’ll be expending the energy to feel that way.
I don’t agree with most of Obama’s past politics. I don’t agree with most of his projected politics. And I certainly don’t agree with many of his proclaimed beliefs.
But I can appreciate the efforts of a man who, by whatever means necessary, has pulled himself up to the most powerful position in America. That’s something.
I am glad to realize that even if someone is 100% displeased that he was elected, they still can cling to the fact that, as you said, our country has arrived at a place where people are willing to put someone who isn’t a white man into a powerful office.
That’s something, isn’t it?
On another note… our country? yeah, it’s not lovely and flowers and sunshine. But it hasn’t been that way for years and years… For that matter, the ancient civilizations had their struggles with all sorts of matters that have manifested and faded and manifested and faded throughout history.
Continue spreading God’s love, (not judgment, for that’s not ours to give), and praying for those in power and those under it and allow history to take its due course.
What’s done is done… our role now is to not make a completely sodden mockery of what it means to be a gracious, loving Christian.
I say we should ALL follow McCain’s example and graciously concede that the leader of our nation is soon to be Barack Obama, and as per the Lord, we are to submit to those in power as He has placed them there.
Stay centered on love, not bitterness. And stay in prayer.
Kate, thanks for mentioning the need for followers of Jesus to jump in the mess. I am convicted everyday of my sin, and, although I know we elected a president who suffers from the same ailments of humanity that I do, I have HOPE. Hope that even a man who is imperfect can be used by God to work some goodness out of every kink.
I’m also excited that ALL American children will have a shot at healthcare. I know we speak a lot about the sacredness of life and the right for life, but I think it’s equally important to take good care of the children who are alive today! I look forward to and will continue to pray that Obama’s plan to cover every child will come to fruition.
Thanks for being willing to talk through this. I know there are many out there whose candidate didn’t get chosen. I think it’s more important than ever for all of us, Democrat and Republican, to be able to talk about how to move forward and be gracious and mature, even in the face of the unknown.
My pastor said something tonight that resonated with me (based on Romans 8:28)
“God did not say ‘all things are good’ but He did say ‘ALL things work for good to those who love God and are called according to His purpose”
I would say that’s some pretty good news no matter how you slice the pie.
I hate that these discussions get “heated”. I really respect and love everyone who commented here. I think there’s room for disagreement and different reactions as long as we all remember what Amanda rightly pointed out – there are people in the Kingdom right now who don’t see everything the same way and the important thing to remember is that as brothers and sisters we have a responsibility not to “devour one another” as Paul warned.
Such good points made here…
(It’s a good thing you enjoy a healthy debate, right?!?)
Thanks for sharing your perspective…it makes things look so differently when you’re seeing through the eyes of your little brothers Joe & Josh and other people who still feel the sting of racism today.
I have never once even considered Barack’s race as being a help or a hurt to him in this entire thing. In fact, I didn’t consider it at all. I just saw him as human. And it makes me sad that some don’t see it that way. But I am glad that his being biracial can inspire and bless people too.
I’m so tired of people’s opinions in this whole thing. Subjectivity seems to cloud the truth, and as you said, God is the only judge of the heart. None of us knows the heart of Obama or McCain or me or you…except God. We need to look past issues and disagreements and simply love.
Thank you for your view, Kate. There is never a right or wrong view when it is your own. While you know who I voted for and my feeling afterward, it was nice to read your story. Like I said before, people need to do extensive research on each candidate before choosing one to support. They need to read everything they can before they blurt out their words. My feelings are still the same though, cover the president with prayer. Only God knows the future of our nation and I will rest with him in control. Thanks for taking the time to comment.
Kate, this is such a great post. I really appreciate your perspective. I thought about my children as I was trying to explain to them why this election is so important and historic. It never occured to them that a black person had never been president…and now they will grow up knowing that African Americans and women CAN hold the highest offices in the land. I did not vote for Obama, but I respect him (in many ways). And he deserves our honor for the office he will hold (the office deserves honor). Also, I was moved by the grace with which Obama and McCain spoke last night. It truly amazed me. And for the good of the country, I am grateful that the election was decisive and that there is no controversy this time around, or talk about an election being “stolen”. The country has spoken and let us now trust in our Sovereign God!
Wow, Kate. Well said.
Interestingly enough, I also voted differently than I thought I would and I also wasn’t sure how I would feel if the vote went one way or another. I’m so glad it’s all done and we can move on.
I’ve personally never understood prejudice against different races; but, I do see different colors, and I love them all! 🙂 My Chinese daughter has been teaching me quite a bit these past two years and I know the lessons are just beginning.
Sending you love and continued prayers from Oregon.
Ah, I’m always going remember you as Katie Applebutter… 🙂 Anyway. Good post friend. I’m glad that finally there is a normal guy headed for office. I love the way he treats his family. Deb and I were talking about how black kids are going to be able to realize just how far they can go. I’m happy. Hope you have a good day.
kirsten
Great words Kate!
Kate,
Thanks for the words of this post… growing up in the same town as you, I can relate to all your words, I remember times growing up and things being said that just didn’t make sense to me. I remember hearing Martin Luther King Jr.’s speech and being moved inside of my heart only to hear people tell me he was a trouble maker and it didn’t make sense to me. Then I remember my friend Eric who has since passed away, way too early in life and learning that a black man and a white man (he and I) could be friends and it changed me into the man I am today! I will forever be thankful for those two men, Dr. King and Eric. Your post put into words the feelings that I had Tuesday night and I appreciate you being willing to share. I too like you voted my conscience and that will only be known by me, God and my wife, but politics and voting aside, I think it was a GREAT DAY in the history of our country. Hope is alive and Dr. King’s Dream’s live on! I hope that the president elect has a great presidency (just as I feel about anyone who takes on that job) and I hope that he instills hope into others to Dream Big!!!
Kudos to you for sharing such an honest, heartfelt sentiment. Regardless of whether I agree or disagree with you, this is a beautiful post. Thanks for stopping by my blog today!
Thanks for this post kate! 🙂
thank you , your words and insight have resonated so much with me and run around in my mind as little things come to mind that in turn lead to me thinking of bigger things- that didn’t make much sense but maybe you get it.
thanks for sharing and being bold for truth kate
Hi Kate! I cannot even begin to tell you how much I enjoy reading your blog, and especially this post. I also grew up in a very racially charged area where one of my closest friends was bi-racial, and the hate never made sense to me, and often broke my heart. My family is now very colorful with a brother-in-law whose mother was from Kenya and father from Japan. They have 3 beautiful children and I’m so proud of my “colorful” family! That being said, I share your emotion. I also agree whole-heartedly with one of your responses where you share that the problems in our nation are not to be solved by politics, but by true Jesus followers stepping up and loving their neighbor. It’s our job, not that of politicians, to change the moral climate of this nation. When I read different responses to your post, it strikes me that our amazing God made people different. He gave us all the ability as people, and even as followers of his, to look at the same thing and come to different conclusions. I too read, and prayed, and studied the issues, and came to a different conclusion than others who love Jesus, and who read, and prayed, and studied. We should find joy in that fact. If we all came to the same conclusion, where would the beauty in our creator giving us the ability to think for ourselves be? As always, thanks for sharing your life with us through your writing.
As one last thing, I have to say that the above response of “teresayw” moved me. If you read this, you have great insight for a 17 year old!
-Julie
“We’ve had a Godly president for 8 years…”