Obama For Your Mama
So regardless of your political view, today is a momentous day in the history of our country.
A black man will lead the free world.
I will weigh under 200 lbs.
And I will have owned my 3G iPhone for 2 months without dropping it once.
Racism will not be solved.
The economy will be no better.
Wars will not suddenly end.
After all, it is just a man, a sinful, broken man, who will place his hand on God’s Word and promise us a bunch of stuff.
The history making moment will take place when you decide whether to piss and moan about policies, decide to place all your hope in just a man, or decide to fall on your knees and pray for the leadership of our country.
What will today mean to you?
Los
Los, curious as to what you think of Obama re-taking the oath of office without his hand on a Bible? (he had to retake the oath since it was not recited exactly the first time).
The Nation has been swept by Obamaitis….I've caught it as well….sometimes I get lost in his eyes…
http://30tocure30.wordpress.com/2009/01/24/doc-yo...
I don't think Obama's election means that difficulties for minorities are over. And I'm bothered by the meaning you assign to the inauguration – "This day means to me that no longer can someone use the color of their skin as an excuse." What? You might want to think about that statement in a little more depth.
By the way, I did not vote for Obama because of his skin color, but because I thought he was the better person for the job. I'd venture to guess most of his supporters voted for him for the same reason.
Because 50 years ago he would not have been able to sit on the front of any bus you would have.
So no…
He's not as white as he is black.
I would have loved to carry a picture of my mom around in my pocket to show all those kids…”NONONO!!! Look at my mom!!! She's not Black!!! Look!!!”
But it doesn't work that way.
Sorry.
It's just a sign that each day that goes by, our need for God becomes more and more evident. The opportunity for God to do something incredible seems to get greater and greater. It's a renewed reminder that I need to be on my knees every day and seek God's guidance for my own personal life, my nation and our leaders.
God's worked through some pretty unexpected circumstances and people — both Obama and America's present condition is no exception.
good and valid point James.
I didn't vote for the cat but I can tell ya this – I'll be praying for him. As an American – what other option do I have but to pray for my leader? I hope he knocks it out the park in his first 4 years and shuts a lot of people up.
And I will add this – my daughter is black – and I am pretty stoked that in her first year of life a black president was voted in – kinda cool…
Yeah, I am way less concerned with the color of his skin, and way more concerned about his ability to lead a country through some very difficult circumstances. It is definitely a step in the right direction for our country in the fight against injustices that God never intended to exist, but there has to be more to this story, or we are headed for more trouble! He has proven to have the ability to bring the US together for the moment, which is definitely a good thing!! I hope that Pres. Obama is able to do the things he is promising…the world will be a better place if he can. And I do hope he knows and remembers that scripture tells us that the heart of kings are in the hands of God. We are all just sinners saved by grace!
I'm pretty pumped! I voted for him for a number of reasons… My pastor has created an impromptu "All-Staff" meeting tomorrow during the inauguration time! It's basically going to be a bunch of our staff sitting in front of the big screen TV eating pizza and watching Obamania! I think it's sweet that I work at a place that is making this historic occasion a priority! (Even though I've directed my TiVo to also make it a priority) haha
preach it los.
"The history of the American Negro is the history of this strife,—this longing to attain self-conscious manhood, to merge his double self into a better and truer self. In this merging he wishes neither of the older selves to be lost. He would not Africanize America, for America has too much to teach the world and Africa. He would not bleach his Negro soul in a flood of white Americanism, for he knows that Negro blood has a message for the world. He simply wishes to make it possible for a man to be both a Negro and an American, without being cursed and spit upon by his fellows, without having the doors of Opportunity closed roughly in his face."
W. E. B. DuBois, The Souls of Black Folks
Thank you
Your welcome to that perspective although its false logic… Lets make murder legal and start another program for the government to give money to those thinking about murder. At the end of the day im sure we both, hopefully agree that the Church should be the solution to this. I don't think any one president is going to solve abortion. I'll still say I could never vote for a man that could kill an infant… to me he is impossible to trust from any moral standpoint. Incase you are not aware Obama has constantly voted for Partial Birth Abortion. Anyways I guess time will tell if your predictions are correct
Los,
You seem to think things are getting off topic, but I'm sure you realized that bringing up Obama among Christians & non-Christians does, by default, bring up his policies. I know your original thought was about him being the first african american president. And yes, that's awesome. But around here & other Christian blogs/forums, there are many Christians who not only did NOT vote for him, but think that having him for a president is terrible. Had he been a republican president, I'm sure there would be a lot more people chiming in with you on that sentiment. Unfortunately, many people cannot look past policies – at least at this point. I hope that President Obama does some amazing things for this country so that the rest of the Christians can happily back him. Of course, for now, their prayers will just be filled with "Make him a republican. Help him change his own policies.."
The government is full of immoral liars. Either they're pro-choice (and are immoral in wanting to kill babies) or are pro-life and don't do a DANG thing about it. It is my firm belief that the ONLY reason the republican party holds onto the Pro-Life policy is to secure evangelic votes. Nothing has changed in 8 years. I don't expect it to. YES, God is the answer. We must appeal to a higher-ranked "official" and pray for a miracle.
Until the Kingdom is ushered in all its fullness (the 1,000 year reign of Christ), this issue of race will be unavoidable. It's sad but true.
bro I've not said anything about republican or democrat or whatever else… All I was saying is that its hard to trust a man that could consistently vote against the protection of babies.. He has been called by many (from both sides) as being the Most extreme pro choice president ever. But hopefully your logic is true and by electing someone with that moral character the abortion rate will go down. "Hope" is the slogan right?
Today, I must admit that my first question was what is Michelle wearing. I think he speaks a lot about peace, hope & unity…this i my pray for our country & world. Also, I must confess that I am super excited a democrat is in office so they don't have anything to complain about anymore….now it is thier fault.
What today means is that I need to support and pray for my new president. But it also means we have the most extreme pro abortion president ever in history, among other things. I will pray that he (Obama) can make good decisions in the midst that morally he opposes laws that forbid cruelty to the human fetus.
Hey. Great question.
I think as the org has gotten bigger and Web 2.0 has exploded it has caused many organizations to take a look.
If you read my political posts I am never anti anyone as much as I am garnishing conversation.
Lots of it is in fun
As this suggests…
http://twitpic.com/156uk
/>If I ever begin to try and convince someone to vote one way on my blog, then I think I begin to tread outside of where I should.
But simply stating I voted for Obama is only American.
You won't find ANY arguments for why.
Does that make sense?
Actually, change starts on the inside. It's a supernatural act of God's grace and until that takes place, there will be no true change.
Thanks for letting us work out our issues Los!
It makes me feel appreciative of the woman my lady America is becoming, as I state in my blog post on this subject:
Fuck All Nigers:
http://dewde.com/2009/01/fuck-all-nigers/
peace|dewde
I am definitely praying for Obama. He was by far the worst possible candidate for president in the history of our country, so it will only be by the grace of God that he does well.
God has put him there for a reason and I have to trust that God knows what He is doing. I really do hope that Obama does well and my prayers are with him.
He wasn't elected 50 years ago. He was elected 2 months ago. The colour of his skin won't make him a good or bad president, so the hoo-haa being made over his half-black-ness is really skewing the occasion. It seems to me that even if he does a poor job (and I pray that he won't), he's already got his place as "a great president" because he's the first "black" president. Would we be making such a big deal if the McCain/Palin ticket won and we were about to have the first female VP? After all, 90 years ago, Ms Palin wouldn't have been able to vote…
At the end of the day, Obama is MY president and I will pray for the dude, but he could be bright blue with yellow polka dots and it won't make a difference. Although that might look somewhat amusing at G8 meetings…
Wow dude. You are really offending all LOTS of non white Americans went through to see this happen.
I won't argue. I'm not going to pretend I know what it is like to be a white Brit with American citizenship.
wow. That's all.
one song: savior on capital hill http://www.myspace.com/derekwebb.but i do know this, twill truly be a great day to experience waking up in atlanta. might be the first/only day i don't miss austin.
Man – it sucks being a stickler for facts and details…
50 years ago Obama was just a thought – if that.
49 years ago – depending on what time of the year it was – theres a darn good chance Obama DID ride in the front seat of any bus with his white mom (Irish-English) in her pregnant white belly while.
See how stupid that arugment is? So are all the other ones about his race and color of skin and blah blah blah blah… argument… blahdy blahdy blah… perpetuation… blah blah blah vomit…
I'm afraid we're in for 4 years of weighing every move the guy makes against race and skin color. I pray not.
No. We will celebrate tomorrow where we have gone.
Seriously? My grandfather could not vote when he came to America and Shifty and James think there is no room to celebrate?
May I never be a stickler for facts and details if it insults an entire generation.
So I'm a youth pastor. I voted for obama. I have to remain anonymous (dumb) because some of my church members or staff may look at this. In my church, it's 99% anti-obama. Even my senior pastor preached a message the sunday before voting about how there were evil forces behind obama's campaign. After the election, our church just moaned and said "Well, at least God is still in control…" And all I heard from our congregation this last week or so is how bad he will be. "He's for abortion!" they'd say. Well, the plain truth is that for the last 8 years, we've had a pro-life president. and 6 of those years, we've had a pro-life GOP. 8 years ago, there were 1 million babies being aborted. And 2008? Yeah, 1 million still. So please tell me what a pro-life led gov't can do. My opinion is – you can't vote based on ONE issue or policy.
I am hopeful that Obama can lead our country in a new and right direction. But I don't have faith in Him. My faith is in God, and I will pray for Obama just as I have for Bush. Is Obama perfect? No. And for the record, I did vote (as I do every year) in good conscience that I may have voted for the wrong person.
Regardless, he's about to be sworn into office. And the American President needs to have the support of the American people!
AMEN.
Watch what you type Loswhit – shifty never said there was no room to celebrate. All I said was 50 years ago he very well could have been riding in a bus on the front. Do you deny that?
Might be time to reel your emotions in hoss. You're not reading thoroughly before re-posting and replying.
I am excited for what is happening – I thnk though ignorance can and will cause issues.
Shaun King – a black Christian man in Atlanta – asked for peoples reactions to the inauguration. Good, bad and ugly.
What reason do you have to get all up in arms and only want to hear the good that agrees with you?
Um, so maybe I should open up my phone and start asking all my black friends to come read my blog?
You're right. He is offending me. And this truth that is my family. And the truth that was my childhood even in 1970something suburban Atlanta.
So in that I choose to celebrate that tomorrow I will pray for a man who is defining a dream.
it kinda sounds like he is offending you – truth be told. right? I mean – at least right now. Because I haven't seen "all LOTS of non white Americans" posting *yet* so it's kinda like you're making a judgment call for all of them. right? or did i miss something? maybe the "all LOTS" have emailed you to say "we're offended – will you represent for us?"
I dunno – I am offended that as a nation we can't work together to grow past the attrocities committed in this country. Until we decide to do that – "all LOTS" are going to continue to pass down the anger and hostility of their fathers (or really grandfathers) to the new generations coming up. It'll lessen with each generation but man – that will just take forever.
I'm not saying there's no room to celebrate. But why such a huge deal for someone who could, potentially, be a complete disaster? My being a "white Brit with American citizenship" has nothing to do with it. I'm just a realist – Obama is just a man, Los, like me and you. Why must we focus on the fact that his skin is half black in order to "big up" the inauguration?
And for what it's worth, it's not my intention to offend. It's okay if I do, but it's not my intention.
This is probably a good indicator of what we're gonna see a lot of in the next 4 years – "Wait a minute – I have black friends… want me to call them and prove it?"
yo man – not my intention to get ya pissed. I feel all icky now that I pissed of THE Loswhit of THE ragamuffinsoul.com.
Accept my apologies if my written words carried such a punch that you got pissed and then felt the need to pray for me (though thanks for the prayers).
I'll do the same (go to bed and pray for you).
P.S. – for the record – I'll be smiling big tomorrow. I think it's a great day in the history of this country and one I have looked forward to…
And to reply to myself, I'm just a hyped up sinful, not that smart dude who loves to see Christ reflected, none of which is coming out of me right now. So I'm going to bed after apologizing for getting pissed at a username called shifty who I have never met nor prayed for until right now.
LOL.
I need Jesus.
Loswhit agrees. Loswhit asked a question shifty did not answer. Loswhit asked what will today mean to shifty. Shifty said arguments about race and color of skin make him want to "blah blah blah vomit". And yes. Loswhit gets hyped about it. Just because the color of my skin has kept me from things in 2008. And that makes me wanna vomit.
Man, America is full of whiners! Come on, you still got it better than 90% of the rest of the world! Where's our perspective as Christians? It's not about the next four years, anymore than it's about the rest of my lifetime. We live in a fallen world! But it ain't about this world either! Enjoy the debate guys!
I didn't vote for Obama, but I'm excited to see the new President of the U.S. take the oath of office tomorrow. I'm excited to see an African American be the President. I'm overjoyed to know Obama's place as President will send a tremendous message of hope for reconciliation to many people. I hope and pray all Americans will be in prayer for our new president, and that we as a free people would lift up and support our new leader.
I am a Christian Latina woman who voted for Obama. I am disturbed at the tone of this debate that seeks to take away from this historic election of America's first black president and our need to pray for our leader.
Obama's skin color is brown, he has referred to himself a "mutt". Calling himself black is not a "self identification". That is the identification placed on him by anyone who looks at him. That 50% of him that is white is not the first thing anyone sees when looking at him. In the old South a person could be considered "Negro" if they were some small portion, say 1/16th black and, as such, be "legitimately" enslaved.
I don't agree with Obama on everything but I am excited at the propect of people of all races coming together on this historic occasion and I pray that people in the church puts their politics aside and remember to pray for our leaders as the bible commands.
Wow. Sure didn't take long for this discussion to get heated. Leave it to politics, eh?
Here's the thing. Anyone who doesn't admit that it really is pretty cool to have an African-American president could arguably be speaking out of their backside a bit. That is awesome. I remember touring in the south and the racism that I discovered still exists today pissed me off.
The problem is, and what seems to be causing contention here, is a lack of division between that reality and the popularity of the man himself. I will definitely celebrate that huge strides our country has taken to be able to see this happen only a generation after the civil rights movement. That isn't that far back in history people. What I fear is that people think on another hand that he will be the answer to all our problems. I actually worry a bit for him that he is being set up to fail. I hope not. But I wonder is anyone could live up to the expectations the media is putting on him, and yes, his policies.
Someone mentioned above that he has already shown that he can unite the nation. I think the vocal media makes it look that way. But in reality it sounds to me like we are still as divided as usual when you really look at it. Perhaps some of the discussion here is a small example of that. In fact, as a sidenote, while the election was lopsided in electoral votes, it wasn't nearly as lopsided in popular vote.
All that to say, I celebrate the inauguration of an African-American president. I pray that he will do the best job possible in the position. Beyond that, we'll pray, let's let it be what it is, and life will go on. Hopefully we can enjoy the celebration tomorrow, and then start talking policies and all the other jargon on Wednesday.
I didn't vote for President Obama. That being said, I celebrate with Carlos that a black man (or half-black, or whatever) was elected his party's candidate and was then elected as the president of the most powerful nation in the world. As Los pointed out, he has become the leader of the free world.
And that is, in my opinion, a reason to celebrate. Maybe… just maybe… we are moving past our past. At least just a little bit.
We are a long way however, from Dr. King's dream. And I pray that many more men and women or all kinds of color continue to paint the landscape of American politics and religion and culture so that one day indeed, we will judge a person solely on the content of their character rather than the color of their skin. And yet, since we have not arrived in that promised land, I will celebrate that my country has taken one step closer to the dream.
And I will rally behind the man who was not my candidate but who is my president. May God bless President Obama and may God bless America.
hmmm James if you can't see the civil and cultural significance not just for America, not just in the Western world, but globally of a black man being elected as the American President .. dude they you don't want to see it .. It isn't wrapped up in Obama, it is wrapped up in a historic moment that wasn't even conceivable not so long ago. Your attempts to downplay that are lame and short sighted. And sorry I don't see anymore danger of complete disaster for Obama then what Bush had, or any president has had. And the realist thing is a cop out .. in fact most of your rebuttals here are paper thin.
Assad. Thanks for getting us back on topic.
So as the question was posed…
What will today mean to you?
I am a white South African. I grew up in Johannesburg in the 80's. For me the kind of segregation Los is talking about is not history. It is something I experienced. Forget front or back of busses, try different busses. I remember the police dragging away our housekeeper's husband, because someone tipped them of that there was a black person in a white neighbourhood after dark. I remember visiting a friend in hospital who, because of the colour of his skin, received a lower standard of care because he could not go to the same hospitals I could have gone to.
I'm only 33 years old and these injustices are still fresh in my memory.
We (in South Africa) have a black president (and have had for the past 14 years). Our presidents are democratically elected by the majority of South Africans. The fact that we have a black president is a testament to the political and social change that occurred in our country.
Today America gets her first black President. That is also a testament to the political and social change that has happened in that country.
For those of us who are white, the race thing might not sound like a big deal, we might even get a little irritated when the is brought up. But we need to try and see it from a different perspective.
The fact that Obama has been elected is a testament to change. It shows that despite the fact that prejudice still exists, that a lot of people are beginning to look past the surface.
This is progress people, it might be uncomfortable for some, but by facing our discomforts is how we as individuals and as a society grow.
Today I celebrate with Americans of all skin colours, I celebrate change that shows us that we can progress, that shows us that we can become more like Christ.
Sermon over. God bless!
As to the discussion of Obama's being "only half black," I think that that argument misses the point a bit.
Racism is largely about perception. Barack Obama looks like a black man (not a half-black man) and is therefore subject to the same prejudices and perceptions that some people may have toward a fully black man. At no other point in our nation's history would we have elected a man who looks like Obama. It doesn't matter what his actual ancestry is; what matters is that a man of color has been elected President of the United States by American people. That is not just an accomplishment for Barack Obama or the African-American community. The fact that Obama was elected not "by the color of their skin but by the content of [his] character" is an accomplishment for all Americans.
What will tomorrow mean to me? A lot of experiences that one recognizes as history being made in the moment aren't good ones (e.g. 9/11, Challenger). Tomorrow is thrilling because it is an important day in history that is one worth celebrating! This is a significant day in the history of our country, and I am extremely proud and thankful that we have journeyed at least this far. Tomorrow opens doors in the minds of thousands of young children to what their future can hold – and that excites me.
Now for the day when half of the population is represented by the right gender in the highest office…
May I always be a stickler for facts and details if it helps an entire generation pick ourselves up and march forward with our heads raised way up instead or groveling in our self pity…
Brace yourself, this will definitely be an interesting reply haha. First off we havent met but we work for the same church/churches and we have mutual friends. My name is Chris. Here goes nothing.
My Dad's side of the family is all black (except for him… long story short his dad died when he was 3 and chinese grandma married a brotha). So half of my family is black, it gets pretty nuts too… 2 of my cousins are 1/4 white, black, puerto rican, and chinese haha! I say all that to say that because we are family, I talk to them a lot about racial issues that your average 21 year old faces. No one in my family that is at least half black(3 aunts, an uncle, 8 cousins) have been able to help me understand this issue I am having. I can't seem to understand this belief that african-americans still feel theyre missing out on things because they are black. I am def not trying to call you out, I just simply want to understand this barrier between the two halfs of my family, white folks, black folks, and a 1/4 asian man. Maybe you can shed some light on my squinty eyes (;
nothing but Love,
CC
What will today mean to me? I will celebrate that democracy marches on. I will rejoice in the fact that anyone, white or black, man or woman, has the opportunity to become President of this great nation.
Amen.
Wow, reading the comments up top almost got me out of the mood of commenting, but thanks to the latter third, I'm back in the zone!
Yes, there is a big deal being made about today, but when there are "firsts" in regards to the history of a democracy, you'll have big deals.
Today, I'll fight back the tears, thinking of where we've been, as a country, and where we're going. This day will mean different things to different people. There will be racists who will feel defeated…AMEN to that! There will be 65 year old black folks who will feel like they're experiencing true FREEDOM for the first time. I love how that will happen. I can't share in that feeling as I'm just a broken white guy, but I can imagine how awesome it is.
I'll turn into a prayer warrior for the day; praying for the big O and everyone joining him in service to our country.
You know, everyone here agrees on one thing. We need to pray for this man and our great country. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that.
We're walking a fine line with this argument. Note this, it is a huge accomplishment for the African American/Black race. Also note this, it's just another day in history that's being written for a country who no longer has segregation. I apologize for my assumed Naivety. I truly don't believe segregation exists, except in one's mind. Racism is still prevalent however and it exists on both sides of the coin. A lot of us fuel on adversity and drama (at times myself included). So the only way to have drama is to keep on keeping on with ways of the old. It's a new world, things change. Note it and carry on smartly because it is inevitable.
I don't know, it's just not a big deal to me what his skin color is. As long as it's legal and he obeyed every law like every other candidate, so be it. I just don't agree with his policies and don't believe he has what it takes to lead this country. At least not any better then the 43 presidents before him. It's just different.
I worry very much about our country now, Obama talks outta both sides of his mouth.
Black. White. whatever you want to say. This man has overcome so much to get to where he is today. 'there is no reason to celebrate a potential complete disaster.'…. I disagree. There are hundreds of reasons. Pick one. Celebrate. In all things praise God. This is happening, and today, I will hang up ANY negative thought I have about EITHER party, open my eyes, Raise my hands in worship to God, and watch as the FIRST, (Even half) black president takes the oath. It has been a long road, started years and years ago by many people. This is momentous and beautiful. Enjoy it.,
Yes, it is a historic moment; however, the expectations upon this mere man is a little frightening as some are worshipping him as if he is a Messiah..not all but a great many. It reminiscent of King/Idol worship you see in the Old Testament. Our God is a jealous God, and when humans start worshipping other humans God does not look favorably upon that. He still loves them, but He tends to show them how they are misplacing their faith. This more than concerns me for my nation. Man will never be able fix the problems of this country or world. Only one person can, and that's Jesus. While I did not vote for Barack Obama he will become my president today. I do pray that he will be able to handle the job he is undertaking, and that he won't be caught up in the aura of super-celebrity the media and many people are placing upon him.
I aggree he is only Human and needs allot of prayer..
OH and of course, I will be praying for him, his family, and our country. That's a given folks. Maybe God will give him the Grace, tenacity, and courage to prove me wrong. That I'm most definitely hoping and praying for.
I hear a lot of folks stating that they have hope for America again. I choose to put my HOPE in JESUS.
And to be perfectly honest, with the swing in American politics, Romans 13:1-2 just became a LOT harder to follow.
I completely understand that it's a historical day today, and I think that's awesome. What I don't understand is why the media is having to over-hype the race significance with everything else. Last night on CNN they were saying people were needing to re-evaluate their guest lists to have more "black faces" (yes, direct quote) at the table. It made me want to throw up. Maybe I am ignorant, but is this how we look at one another? When I hang out with my friends do I make a checklist? …yup, we got 7 whites, 1 black, and well, I tried inviting an asian. That's horrible! Why is the media encouraging this behavior? We need to stop thinking in terms of color…period. MLK's dream WASN'T to have a black person in office…it was for all races to be seen EQUALLY. I am tired of the media or various programs giving favor to one race over another. Things that happened in the past are in the past. The past sucked…but when are we going to truly move forward? Racism and reverse racism especially, are too much alive. Doesn't God want you to focus more on the present and future? When you apply for college they should look at your grades and extra-curriculars only? A white person shouldn't get accepted or a scholarship just because they are white…and that goes for any other race.
That being said, I think today is truly historic…but I am scared for this country. I don't agree with his polices whatsoever. I am a Republican and an unashamed Christian. This country needs more of God, not less, Mr. Obama.
You mean, Constitutional-republic, right?
Thanks Josh. I do agree with you as Believers we are called now to support and pray for our leader. At the same time for me as a follow of Christ its hard for this to be a joyful day.
(Got told to shorten my comment or split it)
We live in a country of not just misinformed, but UNinformed people. I'm one of those people that prays that whatever candidate is elected DOES THE BEST FOR THE COUNTRY, NOT THAT HE'S SUCCESSFUL. If Obama (or McCain, for that matter) is successful based on his past track record of policy, then I think we'll be in trouble as a county. However, if he is not successful based on his past track record of policy, then we may be okay. Either way, we pray. Either way, we've got what we've got. Either way, based on what I've seen we've got racism that runs both ways, but one side claims it's justified.
Well, I see it like this. I'm not/wasn't a fan of either candidate. Neither side is doing much other than remaining in self-preservation mode. What probably bothers me the most is that I saw/see the same thing from both sides (ethnicity-wise, not political party). I have friends, and they are friends, who voted soley based on the color of a man's skin and could not speak of a single policy or stance. Both black and white. I see it as absolutely sad that caucasions won't vote for a black man because he's black just like as see it as absolutely sad that a black person would vote for a man just because he's black. Both are instances of racism. Both are wrong.
Lots of big opinions out there. I merely wanted to ask if I am allowed to piss and moan . . . and pray?
You are 100% correct with this one. Reverse racism is out of control and worse than ever.
I find it interesting everyone is so willing to point the finger at how corrupt Chicago's government is and all the bad stuff that goes on there. Yet, they are so willing to turn their eye at how Obama rose very quickly in that society (and not for any outstanding policies or hard work). He was basically a community planner…and majority of his time in the Senate was spent campaigning for this election. Or…what about all the corruption that's already gone on with his choices after getting elected? You are in support of someone who was fraudulent with their taxes to be in charge of our money? Nice…
thanks, I used this on my blog. haven't heard this song yet. pretty cool.
Fighting on blogs is fun.
lets not forget that it was only in the 60's that the last poll tax was finally removed, that is only 40 years ago, in terms of history that is nothing at all!! Sociologists talk about it taking generations for any one racial or ethnic group to recover from centuries of oppression and slavery. if you enslave, beat, degrade, spit on, murder, lynch and mock a racial group for a few hundred years, don't expect everything to be peachy 40 years later…
Obama as president is a big step for this country, systematic cycles of poverty and hopelessness need to be broken, and Obama provides a African American role model who is not a rapper or an athlete. Obama proves that hard work, study, and deligence can get you too succeed… and for all those mockers out there… lets not forget that the exiting president was given everything on a platter by daddy. Obama had no such luxuries. no knock on Bush, more a celebration of who Obama is, and how hard he has worked.
The idea of race is a social concept. There is no scientific basis for it. Therefore race is defined by society. Society identifies Obama as "black" and therefore he is "black". It doesn't matter that society identified his mom as "white".
offensive. YES. 1/16 is all you need to be black STILL today! 50 years ago or now…all the same. this day is HUGE for anyone NOT white…tell it Los!! We need to pray for our leader, not only cause he's our leader, the Bible says to do it, but there are literally millions of folks who are pissed off and want him dead just because he is, yes, only 1/2 black.
on another note, it's funny that the non-minority folks are always preaching about how we need to "move on" cause it was "so long ago" and all that bs. nope, me, a 1/2 black woman, still to this day receives racial slurs, etc…. and supposedly i don't even "look black"…. so to anyone who thinks we're focusing on the wrong thing, talk to me about how you've been treated cause you had an ounce of black blood in you (or looked like you do in los' case) hehe
i'm praying for Obama's life, safety, leadership, and ability to stand for what he believes despite the pressure to try and please everybody.
Mr Youth Pastor you do have a point. Although, for me personally its hard to trust a man that could vote consistently to kill babies… how do you trust that man morally? I know there is plenty of ways to look at that, and a pro-life president does not mean babies will stop being killed. Although Obama's stance on this issue does say something about his character.
I didn't vote for Obama, but to say "He was by far the worst possible candidate for president in the history of our country" just shows ones ignorance of history.
amen. don't make me break out the "facts"
man, i'm so pumped for today… my stomach hurts a little. i'm so excited. i'm on the verge of tears. i am proud to be an american today. i am never anti-patriotic, but at many times i'm half embarrassed to be american cause of all the dumb things that go on here. not today tho. i have never cared two licks about politics. i've always voted because too many blacks and women fought and died for me to have the right. however, i'm mostly a pesamist and think they're just all liars anyhow… hehe today is a NEW day tho! i've always prayed for our leaders. i've never felt the need to pray for physical protection until now. LORD, PROTECT AND GUIDE OUR NEW PRESIDENT AND HIS STAFF/ADVISORS. LET THEM TAKE OUR COUNTRY IN AN UPWARD DIRECTION. KEEP OBAMA AND HIS FAMILY SAFE FROM THE HATERS, RACISTS, AND ANY ONE ELSE WHO WISHES THEM HARM. Whether we wanted Obama to win or not, fact is he did. let's pray for him and his leading of our country. i will be crying today, even hard than i did on election night!
p.s.
los, love you man. thanks for creating a community where folks can disagree with you, even piss you off, and it's all good in the end. we're all human and emotional. this is a gift from God. let those emotions out! =0)
one more thing. hugs to the whittaker family from the jordans!
Our government is like a man with a drinking problem. He wakes up and drinks, because of that he is late for work. Being sad that he got in trouble for being late for work he drinks more, causing him to get fired from work. He gets home and drinks more to ease the pain of being fired. Then his wife divorces him because of his drinking problem. Then he drinks more.
More government is the problem and people think to solve the problem we need more government. That just doesn't make sense to me. Obama is the most liberal candidate we have had making him the worst possible candidate in our history.
More liberal than McGovern? What about Kucinich?
I'm hoping today is not the last day I'm proud of President Obama…
I posted my thoughts,
http://www.thewardrobeandthewhitetree.com/
yours sounds much better thou
great post!
Today scares me. Today proves God is in control. Today is a good day.
Only because of HOPE did I vote for Obama.
Brody…you are crazy… Well except that is how we all became friends!
H
Baby, I don't know how you do it? Seriously some of these people break my heart! I wish I was watching it with you! H
Definitely a huge day in American history!
I'm really pumped that we're snowed in here in NC, so I get to listen to it on the radio while I work from home.
I am a little frustrated that Obama is spending so much on this though.
$170 million is a LOT of money.
I blogged a little to process my thoughts for anyone interested:
http://www.therieslands.com/2009/01/19/dear-mr-ob...
THANK GOD FOR OBAMA. have a great day!!! im so happy!
We must shop at different stores.
Well, I'll tell you – I'm a big supporter of giving lots of aid to single mothers & new mothers. You won't find that in Republican policy. I wonder how many would-be moms would decide not to have an abortion if they knew the government was going to help them. My prediction is that the abortion rates will go down under this president. not because he's pro-life (he's not I know). but because more aid will be given. The bottom line is – it's pointless to even try to outlaw abortion. People's hearts need to be changed – not the law. If we could correctly inform the people, not the government, less mothers would have abortions. just my .02
It's a shame that someone with your sphere of influence would resort to the use of belittling phrases rather than engage in intelligent debate.
Being realistic is a not a cop out. The fact is that it wasn't all that long ago that it was inconceivable for a black person to be a lawyer, an astronaut, a mayor, a school head teacher, a military commander, a secretary of state..and so on. Did we celebrate wildly when those things happened? No. Are they less significant in the civil rights journey? Not in my opinion. So where do we draw the line? Where do we say "this moment warrants a $50m party" versus "this moment just warrants a side note in a text book"?
Nothing will change today. Nobody's lives are going to change because we have our first black president, except perhaps for the Obama family. People's problems aren't going to disappear. People's hurts aren't suddenly going to be healed. The racial issues that non-white people face aren't going to go away. So as historical as this moment might be on a societal level, I have a hard time justifying the hype surrounding one man's journey to the White House when it doesn't really help anyone dealing with racial prejudice.
People are putting their hope in the wrong place.
Thanks guys for trying to stay on topic.
sigh.
truth is chris, it's both sides that keep this horrid cycle running. blacks not taking responsibility for their part in it (especially the ones who teach their kids that the "white man" will hold them down; then the whites for not stopping what they been saying for years and years; all the bigotry just keeps being shared and spread. however, i guess you'd have to experience the racial injustice to truly understand and empathize. it sucks, but it's true.
James. Again. The black kid living in South Atlanta. Things have changed for him. He has a hope he did not have before.
As fluffy as that may sound…
Saying nothing has changed is, and I'm being as true and real as I can, ignorant.
Not that you are ignorant. I actually know you and know you are not. But the train of thought that nothing has changed in peoples lives today shows a journey that has been walked in another path. Which is ok.
glad to introduce you to it. he said in concert once that the nation has a better chance at real and lasting change if believers would invest in the people living to our left and right. i don't know why, but it clicked that night. its a full, full time job…doesn't leave room for president hating or faithing. just investing, praying, and praying for all. –with that said. its an exciting time to be alive and be a witness to history in the making!
"this day is HUGE for anyone NOT white".
I am unable to understand what you've been through and still go through. So I won't pretend.
That being said, why isn't this a huge day for humanity? Why are white people like me excluded?
This is a HUGE day for all mankind, whether black, white, or any color in-between. Whether you voted for the man or not.
Today I wil pray for our leaders as I do everyday. I will thank God for the blessing that I live in a country where I can teach others about HIM without fear. Today is another gift that none of us really deserve, so we all need to use it wisely.
it's for anyone who wants to care. the NOT white part is cuz only white men have been president my dear.
Today is another inauguration in a long line of presidential inaugurations. You asked what today will mean for me. I did not vote for Obama or against Obama. I voted my convictions. More than one issue.
It's a historic day. I celebrate. Every presidential inauguration is historic. Some more than others.
I pray. As a Christ follower there are no skin colors for me. They exist in culture and society, sure, but we are to transcend that, rise above that, right?
Jesus did.
Congrats Obama.
God Help America.
Best response yet. Thanks Los.
But if I may continue to play a little devil's advocate, that hope was there before, was it not? While President Obama is the first black president, he's not the first to hold a high position in office – Colin Powell and Condi Rice spring to mind. You are right in saying that my journey is different – completely different – but from my perspective, the opportunities that are afforded that black kid in South Atlanta today are the same opportunities that were afforded him last week. So what's changed?
I guess really I'm trying to have an eternal perspective on a very temporary situation.
agreed. i am happy for the progress, not for the direction. prayers will be offered either way.
This is a serious (not sarcastic) question in response to your "1/16 is all you need to be black STILL today" statement. I'm 1/16 Native American. Does that make me a minority?
Sign me up for the falling to my knees in prayer.
a serious answer is this: if someone wanted to use that 1/16 against you in any way, to shut you out, keep you from voting, etc, yes, that would make you a minority. folks don't go by the fraction of your minority blood anymore because for the most part it's illegal…doesn't keep it from happening tho….it truly comes to this, if you've never experienced first hand (or even by association), racial discrimination, it'd be almost impossible for you to truly empathize. by the way, i think if you could prove you're 1/10 native american you can go to college for free =0)
Gotta love the logic here. Obama was the worst possible candidate. If he does well (that is, if this claim turns out to be wrong), then he was still a bad candidate, it's just that God stepped in and fixed it all.
The best part about being a Christian must be that you never have to be wrong.
I heard someone say that white people see race as a "dip", they can have as much or as little as they want. Black people see it as a marinade—it is in & a part of everything. So, for me, a white Christian girl growing up in Atlanta, *I* do not understand the celebration I saw on TV today. I mean, I WAS excited. It was absolute history in the making. But I wasn't dancing or shouting. But it's not a sin for me to not understand. Just as Carlos doesn't understand what it's like to be a white Brit, I don't understand what it's like to grow up black in Atlanta. So, I celebrate the history Obama is making. I celebrate our country for making it. But I don't pretend that his heritage will do anything BUT what we saw today. We've got 4 years to see if Obama is a good president–regardless of race. I pray he is.
(PART 1) I will try to put a few words on paper, but I truly believe it will be weeks or months before the magnitude of this day truely sets in. I was born in upstate New York and grew up there in the early 70's. I did not no anything about segregation and prejudice as there was only two black families in my hometown. They may have experianced those things, but growing up in the Northeast was and is very different than here in the South where I live now. After going into the Air Force in 1977, I first got to live with and be frends with other ethnicicities. I grew to see prejidices from people of all races, the usual sterotypes were used and said. Not being a Christian ( not that some Christians don't act like this also) at the time, I fell into the same trap that many of us have in this world. I have said and laughed at off color jokes and words, I have hurt people by saying things and doing things I should not have. I have stayed away from people and areas where I felt it was not safe, because of color. I have refused or ignored friendship because of color.
Today brings me great hope. Hope that God not only changes people, but PEOPLES. My prayer, however, is that we will place our hope in the risen Christ and be encouarged that He has and promises to continue to do great things.
(PART2) As I have grown older (will be 50 in May) I have seen many things change in my heart and soul, plus the world. Is all well now, no, will it ever be, no, can we all make the world a better place to live, yes, by trying every day to live our lives patterned after our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Through Jesus all things are possible and with prayer and living real we can all take a part in helping our 44th President of these great United States of America in leading the world in positive change. He changed my heart, and He can change yours also. This day means more change to me, more hope to see a more loving and caring world to live in.
James, not sure what your exposure to the racism of middle America has been, not being from America yourself, but this is a significant event that will bring about change in people in a significant way. Things will change today, people lives will change. There are so many racist American's are enraged that a black man is president, just because he is black, and are just realizing how deeply seeded those feelings are for the first time.
Since the times of empires and western dominance there has yet to be a significant Western super power to place a non-white individual as their top leader. Today THAT changed. America has voted white/caucasian men 43 times in a ROW as the top leader of this country. During almost all of that time there would have be no other option but a white man. Today that Changed.
The racial issues are not going to magically disappear, but this event pushes those feelings, those traditions and those behaviors out in to the open. It marks a significant step in the civil rights movement. This isn't the start of something new, it isn't surely not the end of something but it is a huge catalyst in a movement.
Pretty sure I didn't mention Obama as a solution for hurts, problems and that he was our "hope." I didn't say because Obama was black (and being half-black / bi-racial is actually an even bigger statement) he would be a great president. But saying that the affirmation of millions of American's that took the ideology of the equality of men and making it a practical reality in their decision for the top leader of their country won't have any sway in helping to deal with racial prejudice isn't even the assertion of a reasonable person.
and, out of respect for my friend, los, i'll end this here unless he gives permission to carry on the conversation. his original question has gotten lost. it is nice to know that a community with such passion can communicate so greatly amongst perfect strangers
Nope. He can now be president and make up for the sucky version this one did.
Well, back to the original question-What does today mean for you? For the first time in a long while, I have hope that something may change in our country. Today, means a new chapter of history, and I have hope that government will become more transparent and with that more accountable. To me, this is not an issue of faith, but that of state. Of course, as faith is part of the fabric of my being, I must say it has been joyous to watch all walks of life, turn their differences aside, and embrace love, hope and acceptance. Was that not the message of Jesus Christ? I think, despite being a matter of state, it has been a good day to be a Christian!
I just watched the inauguration ceremony with a sense of peace…a feeling that the burden of insecurity, social injustice, economic inequality, political and religious radicalism is lessening, not so oppressive. I felt glad whenever asked if I thought I'd live to see a black president that I had always said yes. A myriad of feelings overwhelm me but most of all let us pray.
Wow, I wish I had turned in sooner to the conversation… I'm honestly both heartbroken and excited by what people have been saying here.
History is history.
This event is testament to where we are as a nation and for that I rejoice with you Los! If a white democrat were elected the response would be different, of course. But the heart of Los' post isn't yay demos, it's yay USA, as in WE are starting to look past the colors on the outside of our skin. I encourage you to pray for all of our leaders, no matter what you believe they should/shouldn't be doing.
Oh yeah, and fighting on blogs is teh lamesauce.
it's mrs.
Wow–what an amazing argument/discussion this caused–What's beautiful about this is regardless of skin tone, morals, pride, politics, there is a great expectation within these next 4 years because of how much this election has rubbed against our own personal fibers. What's rather interesting is that we have a unique set of circumstances in this country. We are not homologous. If you go to somewhere like Germany and see someone who would be considered Black here in the states, we're the ones who make the distinction…to him and the people around him, he's German. For some mixed folks, when a pastor friend of mine went to Uganda, they considered him "white" though he is 1/2 black and 1/2 white. How is it that he can't just consider himself American? In Italy it's whether you're Northern Italian or Southern Italian…perhaps not as conspicuously as it was 50 years ago…but there's still residue.
At the end of the day, we're called to support him as our president. And regardless of melanin and political allegiance, he's given hope to people where there hasn't been hope. He is held accountable to God for what he says and does in this life just as much as we are…how interesting that it's not about just a white man or a black man, but a man who is both?
so wait… are you saying that for the majority of people – it takes seeing someone who looks like them do something great before they think they too can do something great? Are you saying that Pres. Obama is to TBKLISA what the Beastie Boys were to white rappers?
Just trying to ascertain where you're at with this. And so as not to get off of Los' original poisnt – today has been an overwhelmingly great day, no? It feels darn good to be an American today.
Ha. No. I'm not saying anything about the Beastie Boys.
There were plenty of white rappers before the Beastie Boys.
There has been no African American President before today.
If after the conversation we have had today, you still do not see how that can bring an African American hope…No amount of typing will convince you otherwise.
So we shall agree to disagree.
And as the THKLINA (The Hispanic Kid Living In North Atlanta) which was me in the late 70's and 80's, Ponch was a freaking role model and I held pride in him.
I can't imagine what a president could do for this generation.
And with that, welcome to my blog Tina.
To be honest, right wing Conservative Christians had 8 years to do something. Bush didn't do jack squat.
America would not stand for 4 more years of more of the same. They wanted change.
Guess what. We got change.
Just as you guys find it mind-bending madness that Americans would elect Obama, there were many of us who find it purely insane that Bush would even be in the running for the President. He got elected not once but twice.
Change comes from within the cities and not from your lily white homogenized suburbs.
Well Said!!
We chose to watch, to pray, and to go on with life like we still need Him every stinkin' day.
He is not black, nor he is white. He is Bi-Racial, people are too focus on what race he is. Before anyone says
" just another whitey comment" i am too bi-racial ( half Korean and half white) people don't view me being "Korean" and people don't refer me as a "white" either. I think the media and the society is too hyped on about obama's race rather than can this man actually run this country?.
Don't be surprise if he removes God like all the other Liberal parties have been trying to do or done.
Oh man Los – why'd ya have to do it? Questioning Shifty the Fact Stickler again?
The Beasties were the first white rap group. I am pretty sure there weren't "plenty of white rappers before them." Unless ya count Blondie's hit "Rapture" in '81 but that really just "involved rap" and wasn't categorized as rap.
It was 1986 – 16 years after the Last Poets kinda kick-started a genre and Clive Campell became DJ Kool Herc that the first white rappers stepped on the scene.
Don't deny the Beasties what is theirs! That'd be like me denying Obama was the first black prez.
And to keep it on point – I'll say I still don't think TBKLISA or even THKLINA should put their hope in a man – but I will agree that he can offer them optimism. Right?
I hope BHO will be a good dad & a good husband & at the very least protect us from radical islam. It is an historical day for america regardless but that said i'm tired of all the hype placed on this man. people actually think that because he's in the office that they can just chill & wait for the govt to take care of their lazy asses – just like that lady on the youtube vid that believes that BHO will help her with her mort & put gas in her car.
Would we all be in love with BHO if he wasn't bi-racial? Or if he wasn't 1/2 black? Perhaps those people who actually say they didn't vote for him because of his politics meant it. I didn't vote for him for his politics, nor would I ever vote for a Black GOPer just because he was black. Some of actually did vote based on issues and alot voted for him because he is 1/2 black.
My family has always prospered regardless of who was in office – we will do the same with BHO in office. He's not a savior – just a man. Let's try to form an opinion w/out input from all the media & BHO fans that are out there…if that is possible.
I can't believe some of these crazy comments. wowsa.
My husband wrote this…..and this is what today means to us. We are white parents raising a black son.
http://relevantmagazine.com/releblog/revolution/o...
P.S. we just sent your wife our book to review on her blog.
Just to put some perspective on this:
Obama is a much white as he is black.
Why do we choose to focus on his black half?
Regardless of his race, this guy scares me more than Clinton did. It's Obama's promises that scare me. On November 5, I changed all of my online avatars to a hammer and sickle because I believe that's the direction he's going to take our country. The avatars have returned to normal, but I'm still scared.
All the people shouting "He's going to pay for my gas and my mortgage," scare me. If the government pays for your house, who will own it? Certainly not you! Kinda reminds me of the Soviet Union. Modern houses in St. Petersburg (formerly Leningrad) still have community thermostats. They monitor the temperature in every house, but a city official sets the thermostat.
I do not want to see this country embrace the atheist ideals of socialism. The USA has pushed God out of so much of our lives already. I have little hope that we will recover as a nation.
Like Aaron before me, I put my hope in Jesus. God remains sovereign. We belong to Him.
Adios,
Clay
I watched Dr. King's "I Have a Dream" speech (which, by the way, I think should be called the "Let Freedom Ring" speech, because that's when I teared up…) yesterday, and was overwhelmed by what I heard (again… I'm certain I had to listen to that speech for a class in college).
From a policy standpoint (as a fiscal libertarian and social moderate), I could not possibly disagree with President Obama any more than I do, without him becoming a full-on socialist (that admits it). But that does not change the significance of this day. As a commenter above said, we are still far from Dr. King's dream, but this day takes us one step closer.
This day means to me that no longer can someone use the color of their skin as an excuse. No American can say from a stage that the government has a plot against their race. It is my sincere hope that today, America can celebrate that a person of color is our leader, and then move on. Today is a day of celebration, but it also has to be a day where we change trajectory. The goal can no longer be "a black man in office." The goal must be, as Dr. King said, to judge the man not by the color of his skin, but the content of his character.
Wow. I am astonished at the flippancy with which today is being treated by many of those posting. As an African-American woman with much white in my blood, I have never been tempted to consider myself anything other than black. Why? Because when I walk down the street, there is no sign on my back saying 1/4 white, or 1/8 Native American. People see a black woman. I didn't hear the masses calling for us to "acknowledge our whiteness" when LEGALLY even one drop of black blood "tainted" us into being black. I didn't hear anyone encouraging us to acknowledge our whiteness when by law the child LEGALLY had to go the way of the mother because masters were raping slaves but didn't want to take responsibility for their mixed blood offspring. Obama considers himself black because in America, when people looked at him, they didn't see his white mother or grandmother. They saw a black man. Believe it or not, most whites in the 60s weren't eager to embrace a black boy running around crying I'm white. We know that man is half white, but his very appearance drew him into the black experience and into our collective conscience. We didn't get our 40 acres and a mule. We built the White House as slaves, but couldn't be guests there. We fought alongside whites in the Civil War for our own freedom, and still had to later flee the Jim Crow South where black life was worthless and extinguished with impunity. We lived through being considered 3/5 of a human and seeing our family structure completely splintered, and believe it or not, TO THIS DAY, are still recovering as a people from the effects of more than 200 years of subjugation, abuse, disenfranchisement and systemic theivery. Can we at least celebrate our first black president without having that taken away, too? I am ready to move on, but we cannot move on until we have a clear view of what is behind and how it affects where we are now. I am glad there are not more black people logging in to read some of these posts. I am praying that they are ready to move forward with an open, clear-minded dialogue with good people who don't look like us. But DANG! Ya'll make it hard to let go with such idiocy! You cannot even hear yourself through our ears, can you? I hope you find some "black" brains to pick; some folks you can sit down with and learn from and make more than just superficial judgments. I rejoice in seeing a diverse patchwork of people celebrating THEIR new president, no matter their ethnicity. Today, it is one of the most historically significant things we have seen. Today, his ethnicity may actually obscure the reason I voted for him – he is a brilliant man and an excellent leader, with a unique ability to get things done from the bottom up and collaboratively. Tomorrow, he'll be under the same scrutiny and fierce expectations as his white predecessors. But the man IS black. I won't let you take that away from us.
I think the hope always existed for that black kid living in South Atlanta (hereafter referred to as TBKLISA pronounced 'tee-bock-lu-sah'). Why does TBKLISA have to hinge his hope on a human being? And why can't we as a SINGLE HUMAN RACE stop counting firsts? It almost feels like we're keeping score – the whole "us" vs. "them" mentality.
And Los knows whats that makes me wanna do – blah blah blah vomit. Right?
Saying his hope hinged on President Obama is not a smart thing. What happens if (God forbid) Pres. Obama has a TERRIBLE 4 years? What if it's the worst 4 years of any president ever in the history of oval offices or even circular shaped offices for that matter?
What does that say about poor TBKLISA's hope? Is it dashed? Does he have to start all over and wait for the next black "first" so he can once again have hope? So his food can taste better and his minimum wage job seem great? TBKLISA should be finding his hope in one place and one place only.
Ya know what? Tonight I am praying for TBKLISA. And his hope.
Los – got a question for you man. As someone who follows North Point Ministries very closely I know that Andy works hard to create a politically neutral climate out of respect for the laws regarding non-profit ministries. Even though this is your personal blog and probably has a disclaimer somewhere on it about your views not reflecting those of NPM, I wonder what/if there is a policy about something like posting a picture of yourself holding an Obama (or any Presidents) logo? Could someone make a case that because you are a high profile leader, that act represents an endorsement. I'm no lawyer and it doesn't bother me in the least. I simply ask because this is a scenario I will no doubt have to deal with in the future as a pastor. If you don't want to answer the question, that's fine too. Love the blog, love the work you guys are doing in ATL and around the world, and love the fact that you're leveraging your influence for the Gospel.
I agree LuLu. Looking at folks through the prism of color for any reason is bad. I'm also disturbed that while all of us who don't agree with Obama's policies are being told to be respectful by the same folks who were leaving shoes outside the White House for President Bush and would certainly throw them at him if given the chance. It's the double standard that really bothers…actually angers me. I didn't always agree with Bush, I respected the office as I will continue to respect the office of president after noon today. The problem is…that respect is never reciprocated towards Republicans or conservatives. Actual downright hate speech towards Bush has not only been tolerated it hasbeen praised and encouraged. While I did not agree with all of Bush's decisions I believe he is a good man, and if anyone needs a vacation from the hater's it's GWB.