Waking Up to a New America...and Accepting It

Wow! What a historic night we all witnessed last night. Obviously, I am disappointed that the candidate I was supporting did not win but I also realize as an American it is now my responsibility to suppport and respect that authority our nation has chosen.

There are definitely some things I am fearful of--the two main things being the war and healthcare. Like many Americans, I wish we were not in a war--mostly for the sake of my children. I had the utmost confidence in McCain's ability to not just end the war, but in fact resolve the conflict. I am hopeful (and prayerful) Obama will be able to do the same. I am fearful of what Obama's healthcare plan is going to do to private healthcare. Private healthcare is more competitive and progressive, allowing for more cures and progress in medical science. I think there is a better solution for making sure all have access to healthcare. But once again, I will be in prayer over my fears of this.

However, in the midst of my disappointment, I couldn't help but be amazed at the moment we had just witnessed. The first African-American will be taking office and the images from Chicago were a sea of every color and race celebrating together. Many of our parents or grandparents lived through segregation and extreme racism. I grew up not in the midst of extreme racism, but definitely some prejudice...especially in the small bubble I grew up in. My sister and I both had our eyes opened greatly as we went to very diverse, liberal schools. I think we both benefited greatly from those experiences. I can't help but think of how the racial lines have slowly, but surely, disintegrated over the generations, and I wonder what lines my children may even be aware of, or more importantly, oblivious to. The first president they'll probably remember will be a black president. What an amazing opportunity my children may have if they don't even see someone for the color of their skin. Oh, I can only hope for such great things for my children...and I, of course, will do what I can to help assist with that. Walking around with the awareness of racial lines is often a hindrance to relationships, opportunities or possibilities that could be life changing. I am thankful for a certain professor at UT that opened my eyes to that.

So, that's my take. I'm disappointed because I felt McCain had some great platforms and I agreed with his proposed policies. But I will unite with my fellow Americans, and support our President-Elect and be hopeful and prayerful of the changes that are in store for us. I may even find a way to get more involved in government...we'll see, two babies are probably going to have me tied down for a while! :-)

"Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, and agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience.

This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor."
Romans 13:1-6

Never forget we may be under the rules of an earthly man, but we are in the hands of a loving God.

Hopeful and prayerful,