"THE DREAM OF OUR FOUNDERS IS ALIVE"

A snarky nitpicker might point out that, for at least some of those founders, a black man in charge was at best a funny dream-filled joke, and a worst, a nightmare.  But I get his point.  Even more, it actually proves sometimes you don't dream big enough.

 

God knows I didn't dream big enough to think this could really happen. That's why I couldn't get behind Obama at first -- the way I threw my heart, mind, and soul into the Dean campaign four years ago. 

But tonight was an amazing night in history.  A true "You Were There" moment.  I've rarely been so proud and excited to be a Chicagoan, an American, or honestly, a member of humanity.

Of course, President-Elect Obama -- and damn, does it feel sweet to type that -- accepted the presidency and our cheers with a humility that amazes me.  And then there's this:

This victory is not the change we seek, only the chance to make that change.

I don't know if he can continue this theme and rallying supporters without an election as a reason and a opponent to defeat, his administration could be even more important to history. But now it truly is, in many ways, up to us.  But, I, for one have no idea how to do this yet.  I hope we -- and many other -- use this inspiration somehow though.

 

But maybe the most telling part:

And to those Americans whose support I have yet to earn - I may not have won your vote, but I hear your voices, I need your help, and I will be your President too. 

Not to do exactly the opposite of what our President-Elect is asking, but can you imagine anyone at all associated with the Bush Administration saying this?  It's going to be so great to have a thoughtful adult in charge.

Speaking of, McCain's speech was classy and reminded me of some Republican I used to know.  Oh yeah, John McCain.  Let's hope I don't have to blame him eventually for unleashing Sarah Palin on us.

However, I've decided even Alaska's strange governor being in the spotlight might not be such a bad thing -- despite the fact that she isn't so fond of politically aware cute couples like these.

She brings a somewhat pretty face to the worst parts still left of the Republican party. And optimistic me -- and it's nearly impossible to not be tonight -- thinks that will make it easier to defeat than vague ideas that those who don't truly believe in them stand behind.  Such a schism could tear the Republican apart or put them on a less destructive path -- which seems pretty win/win to me. (Like I said, feeling optimistic tonight.)

But tonight shouldn't be about them anymore.  It should be about him.  But since Obama thinks it's about us, here's some of my favorite pictures that we took on the run tonight