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My wife and I cast our votes this morning in Southern California. Of course, previous to today I'd read the stories about the long lines, longer waits and standing in inclement weather to vote. Still, like all of you, I was excited, and viewed today as a new beginning - almost like a rainstorm clearing smoggy skies.
We arrived at our polling place at 7:40am. I knew I couldn't wear an Obama shirt, so instead I wore one of my favorite Ts - a green shirt, with a white, faded peace sign in the middle. Written around the peace sign was the phrase "Back by Popular Demand." I felt like I spoke volumes about my vote, my beliefs and my choice for president without saying a word.
As I was voting, a long line formed down the driveway, curving around and down the sidewalk. When I finished, I got my "I Voted" sticker and walked halfway down the driveway to wait for my wife. As I stood there, I noticed those close to me in line were checking my shirt out. I can't tell you how many gave me a knowing smile or a slight nod. It was at that moment that I felt, as a majority, that we all "got it." I really felt that today's voting was truly a communal thing.
Honestly, I haven't felt this close to my fellow man since the heartbreaking days following 9/11. This time, though, it was different. I know you've felt it - a shared hope, a belief in a dream and in one another. As if collectively we KNEW we could make a difference. We could change the world. We could end hatred and poverty and war. We could ease the plight of the sick, and the poor, and even the prejudiced.
Folks, I first voted - at the tender age of 18 - in 1980. In the election cycles that followed, I've never felt anything as powerful as I did at that moment. Standing on that driveway, in the early morning cold and gloom, I felt as if America, broken and battered for eight long, terrible years, was beginning to heal and come together.
That American was beginning to believe again.
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