Wednesday, November 5, 2008

letter b/w friends

what a beautiful note christina. we were all teary eyed and all amazed at how far this country has come in such a short time.

outside of the symbolic shift away from the current admin and ongoing govt policies, there's still a lot of question marks in my mind. will obama continue an agenda of war and run-away defense spending? will we truly initiate a new deal 2.0 empowering minorities and the working class through sustainable energy revamping? will cornerstones of ethical society be settled like abolishment of capital punishment, immigrant protection, and nation-wide acceptance of gay marriage? will our broken infrastructure and national security be improved? lots of questions left unanswered, but I'm glad for once, at least, since I started voting 9 years ago, i feel like we came much closer to a fair and democratic election.

ryan

On Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 8:59 AM, Christina Soontornvat wrote:
Hello friends and family,

I just had to share with you how I'm feeling this morning, knowing that many of you are feeling the same way. I think we would all agree that no matter our political affiliations this is an incredible moment to be a part of and one that we'll tell our children and grandchildren about in the future. Last night I couldn't fall asleep from all of the excitement and emotions I was experiencing after listening to Obama's acceptance speech. As a woman, a first-generation American, and a young person I feel like dreams are being realized whose full weight I did not fully appreciate until now. As the historical aspect of the election subsides, I know that Obama will become known simply as Our President and we will take it for granted that a black man holds that office. This is a good thing and I look forward to the day when it's just a matter of fact. But I have to say that I was trembling watching Jesse Jackson, John Lewis, and other civil rights activists cry and speak with such emotion about a day that they thought may never come. I believe that we all benefit when barriers are broken, no matter our color or gender, and I know that this election is opening doors for people all over the world.

I, like so many people, voted for the man because I believe in his vision for the country and his ability to see it through. Right now I am reading a biography of FDR and all of the similarities of this election and the election of 1932 are amazing. Both men were elected at the height of economic crises and at a time when Americans needed a reason to hope. Both men promised fundamental change. In his first 100 days FDR accomplished amazing tasks that helped millions of people and became the bedrock of America's commitment to helping her citizens. I have always hoped that Obama would be able to do the same. After his acceptance speech last night - a somber, serious but hopeful call to Americans to sacrifice and serve - I have no doubt that he will work hard to unify the country. I am so honored to be asked by my President (elect) to do what I can for the good of all of us.

I wonder if you are feeling the same way? Are you as tired, but as energized as I am? I'm thinking of all of you!

Love
Christina