Nana-J:
You may have misjudged many of us. I am also a white, middle-aged woman. I, too, know something of diversity.
I live in Honolulu. Just two blocks from Punahou School, the prep school Obama and my own three children attended. It was the excitement we naturally felt that “one of our own” might be president that I began to research Obama’s life. There was much, it seemed, that we had in common.
I couldn’t cast my vote for someone just because I had an emotional attachment to them. I needed to get a real sense of his values – the character and judgment he’s used throughout his life. When I’m comfortable with that, the political positions he might take are usually in keeping with my own.
I remember hearing Obama’s first words — an answer to a question about his admitted drug use. When asked about inhaling, his response was a laughing and flippant, “That was the whole purpose!” Now I’m sure that made him popular with the college crowd – his targeted audience – and it has definitely proved successful.
But this saddened me. I think it’s critically important that our leaders have the highest of standards, and not treat their own youthful indiscretions in a light vein, but soberly. At every opportunity. We as parents – and grandparents, as you are – should try to give our children the best role models.
And that is why I brought up the video. The video that, as I watched it, made me weep for that child. For he could be my own newphew, Nate. But it is only the color of their skin that they share. Our Nate is joyful, loving life – and keeping us all laughing – even as he adjusts his life now to accomodate his lost vision. He’s been taught to live a life of faith, not hate.
You see, I was raised in a family that values all life. This child was given it because his biological mother was told there was a family who wanted him. And we are all so very glad she did.
As I said before, a person’s character and judgment are pretty good indicators of his political views. If you’re not aware of Mr. Obama’s position on Life, it has not been anything close to moderate. He stood – alone – in the state senate to disallow lifesaving aid to those who might survive an unsuccessful abortion.
As a believer in God, I encourage faith at every opportunity. But I understand it’s not shared by all; and my heart goes out to those young women who must make that choice. But choices are what each of us makes every day – every hour – for a variety of reasons. Though seemingly small, they are a reflection of our maturity – and our character.
Mr. Simon was right — there comes an hour when each of us must grow up and put aside childish things and ways.
Mr. Obama has yet to do that.
