Politics..Do I dare?

So, obviously yesterday marked a very significant day in American history. It's nice to be around for little bits of American history. I am proud to be in this country...always have. I do have one little complaint, and I can't continue to write without giving credit where credit is due. Patrick Sesty inspired me to write this, so Patrick you may have some people who are also inspired, or you may find people wanting to take you down. (hopefully the former)

My complaint is that I am very disturbed by the words chosen to express opinions regarding Obama and the democratic party. Before I continue, I want you to know that I am a registered Republican. (I think I remember registering as a republican) I have been highly disappointed with the mean spirited things my peers have to say just because someone else doesn't believe the way they do...especially members of the church. According to my knowledge, we are supposed to be the most inviting people on this planet, yet to read some blogs or hear some opinions would suggest otherwise. I am not advising us to lose site of our standards, but to be understanding and FRIENDLY towards those who don't share the same. When you take a moment to UNDERSTAND someone, your feelings for them change drastically. You begin to experience another level of charity. (personal opinion) Besides, I don't think Obama can really do much more damage to the country than where we are now :)

Here is something that I have been struggling with: In the last election (2004), I voted republican. My personal views were best represented by good ol' George. I don't regret voting for him, despite the recent attacks during his tenure. My personal views always seem to land in between the two parties, but at the time of election, I didn't feel Jon Kerry was the man for me. This election, I was VERY torn. (okay, enough with the CAPS) It was difficult for me to decide who to vote for. I struggle with my religious views vs. my personal opinions. Sometimes they don't meet in the middle and I have to choose. This next part may sound petty, but it's the truth. I haven't told anyone what I voted because of my "social" fears. If I voted republican, I was a sell out because there was a black man (bi-racial actually) running and I didn't support him. If I voted democrat, I was just voting for the black man. It's a lose-lose situation. So I won't tell you who I voted for, (I am taking this to the grave) but I will say that I got over my fears of social criticism.

My point is that we should be nice to people and we should take the time to elect our officials based on what they represent and not the political party they to which they belong. Also, let's be nice to people. In the words of Patrick Sesty, let's stand united no matter who our elected officials are.