- We remain a young nation, but in the words of scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things.
- Greatness must be earned.
- We must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin the work of remaking America.
- What the cynics fail to understand is that the ground has shifted beneath them.
- Without a watchful eye, the market can spin out of control.
- We are the keepers of this legacy. (NOTE: I think this is the standout phrase of the speech.)
- We know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness.
- The world has changed, and we must change with it.
- Let it be said that when we were tested, we refused to let this journey end.
Showing posts with label politics. Show all posts
Showing posts with label politics. Show all posts
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Inauguration Day: Post 9
A few memorable and noteworthy phrases from Obama's inaugural address:
Inauguration Day: Post 8
Humbled. Mindful. Thanks President Bush for his service to the nation.
44 Americans have now taken the presidential oath. Riding tides and still waters. Every so often, gathering clouds and raging storms. At these moments, carried on not just because of skill and vision but because we the people have remained faithful to the vision of our forebearers.
So it must be with this generation of Americans. Homes lost, jobs shed, businesses shuttered. Each day brings further evidence that the ways we bring energy threaten our adversaries and brings our planet closer to crisis.
Nagging fear that Americas fear is inevitable. Lower its sights. The challenges we face are real. They will not be met easily. They will be met. We gather because we have chosen hope over fear. Worn-out dogmas. Strangled our politics. We remain a young nation, but the time has come to set aside childish things. Carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea. The God-given idea that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their measure of happiness.
Greatness must be earned. Not a journey of shortcuts or for the fainthearted. It has been the risktakers, the do-ers, the makers of things. Carried up the long rugged path toward prosperity and freedom. For us, they toiled in sweat shops and settled the west. For us, they fought and died. Time and again, these men and women struggled and worked until their hands were raw.
We remain the most prosperous, powerful nation on earth. Our capacity remains undiminished. But our time of standing pat, protecting narrow interests has surely passed. Must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin the work of remaking America.
Everywhere we look there is work to be done. Foundation for growth. Restore science to its rightful place. Harness the sun and winds. Meet the demands of a new age. All this we can do, all this we will do. Some suggest our system cannot tolerate too many big plans. Their memories are short, for they have forgotten what our country has already done. What the cynics fail to understand is that the ground has shifted beneath them.
The question we ask today is whether our government works. Held to account to spend wisely, end bad habits, do business in the light of day. Without a watchful eye, the market can spin out of control. Cannot favor only the prosperous. The reach of our prosperity, extend to every willing heart. Surest route to our common good.
Reject the choice between our safety and our ideals. Assure the rule of law and the rights of man. We will not give up those ideals. We are ready to lead once more. Earlier generations faced down fascism and communism, not just with missiles and tanks. Our power grows through its prudent use. We are the keepers of this legacy.
We will not apologize for our way of life. Those who seek to use terror, we say our spirit is stronger. We will defeat you. We know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. We are shaped by every language and culture. Because we have tasted the bitter swell of civil war and segregation, we cannot help but believe the old hatreds shall pass. To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward. To the people of poor nations, we will work alongside you. We can no longer afford indifference to those outside our borders. The world has changed, and we must change with it.
A willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves. It is this spirit that must inhabit us all. It is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people on which our nation relies. Those values upon which our success depends on are old. What is demanded is a return to these truths. A new era of responsibility. Duties we seize gladly. Nothing so satisfying to the spirit than giving our all to a difficult task. This is the price and promise of citizenship. This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed.
Remembrance of who we are and how far we have traveled. America in the face of our common dangers, let us remember these timeless words. Brave once more the icy currents. Let it be said that when we were tested, we refused to let this journey end. Eyes fixed on the horizon, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it to future generations.
44 Americans have now taken the presidential oath. Riding tides and still waters. Every so often, gathering clouds and raging storms. At these moments, carried on not just because of skill and vision but because we the people have remained faithful to the vision of our forebearers.
So it must be with this generation of Americans. Homes lost, jobs shed, businesses shuttered. Each day brings further evidence that the ways we bring energy threaten our adversaries and brings our planet closer to crisis.
Nagging fear that Americas fear is inevitable. Lower its sights. The challenges we face are real. They will not be met easily. They will be met. We gather because we have chosen hope over fear. Worn-out dogmas. Strangled our politics. We remain a young nation, but the time has come to set aside childish things. Carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea. The God-given idea that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their measure of happiness.
Greatness must be earned. Not a journey of shortcuts or for the fainthearted. It has been the risktakers, the do-ers, the makers of things. Carried up the long rugged path toward prosperity and freedom. For us, they toiled in sweat shops and settled the west. For us, they fought and died. Time and again, these men and women struggled and worked until their hands were raw.
We remain the most prosperous, powerful nation on earth. Our capacity remains undiminished. But our time of standing pat, protecting narrow interests has surely passed. Must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin the work of remaking America.
Everywhere we look there is work to be done. Foundation for growth. Restore science to its rightful place. Harness the sun and winds. Meet the demands of a new age. All this we can do, all this we will do. Some suggest our system cannot tolerate too many big plans. Their memories are short, for they have forgotten what our country has already done. What the cynics fail to understand is that the ground has shifted beneath them.
The question we ask today is whether our government works. Held to account to spend wisely, end bad habits, do business in the light of day. Without a watchful eye, the market can spin out of control. Cannot favor only the prosperous. The reach of our prosperity, extend to every willing heart. Surest route to our common good.
Reject the choice between our safety and our ideals. Assure the rule of law and the rights of man. We will not give up those ideals. We are ready to lead once more. Earlier generations faced down fascism and communism, not just with missiles and tanks. Our power grows through its prudent use. We are the keepers of this legacy.
We will not apologize for our way of life. Those who seek to use terror, we say our spirit is stronger. We will defeat you. We know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. We are shaped by every language and culture. Because we have tasted the bitter swell of civil war and segregation, we cannot help but believe the old hatreds shall pass. To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward. To the people of poor nations, we will work alongside you. We can no longer afford indifference to those outside our borders. The world has changed, and we must change with it.
A willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves. It is this spirit that must inhabit us all. It is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people on which our nation relies. Those values upon which our success depends on are old. What is demanded is a return to these truths. A new era of responsibility. Duties we seize gladly. Nothing so satisfying to the spirit than giving our all to a difficult task. This is the price and promise of citizenship. This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed.
Remembrance of who we are and how far we have traveled. America in the face of our common dangers, let us remember these timeless words. Brave once more the icy currents. Let it be said that when we were tested, we refused to let this journey end. Eyes fixed on the horizon, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it to future generations.
Inauguration Day: Post 7
Wow, gotta love Aretha Franklin's voice. She could sing the theme song to Friends and make it into a meaningful, emotional experience. Well, OK, maybe not THAT song...
A close-up of a tear down someones face. So cliche...
Well, Biden has taken his oath of office. 3 minutes until noon EST.
Is John Paul Stevens wearing a bowtie? Cant tell. Does Biden get to pick which associate justice administers his oath?
Its 1 minute before noon. Apparently they ARE running a few minutes behind.
Seriously? Someone is using a blower in my neighbor's yard just as yo yo ma and itzhak perlman are playing music. Horrible timing, folks. Horrible timing.
This music seems so calm and soothing and stirring, right before the oath of office for Obama. Very creative and effective. I could listen to yo yo ma and itzhak perlman all day. Seriously. Let them play whatever they want and it'll be incredible. Not sure who the pianist and clarinetist are but they're good too.
Officially, Obama became president 4 minutes ago. But now time for the official swearing-in ceremony.
"Everyone please stand" is funny because everyone out on the National Mall has been standing for hours.
Oops, some mess-ups on the oath. Underlying tension between John Roberts and Barack Obama?
It's official.
A close-up of a tear down someones face. So cliche...
Well, Biden has taken his oath of office. 3 minutes until noon EST.
Is John Paul Stevens wearing a bowtie? Cant tell. Does Biden get to pick which associate justice administers his oath?
Its 1 minute before noon. Apparently they ARE running a few minutes behind.
Seriously? Someone is using a blower in my neighbor's yard just as yo yo ma and itzhak perlman are playing music. Horrible timing, folks. Horrible timing.
This music seems so calm and soothing and stirring, right before the oath of office for Obama. Very creative and effective. I could listen to yo yo ma and itzhak perlman all day. Seriously. Let them play whatever they want and it'll be incredible. Not sure who the pianist and clarinetist are but they're good too.
Officially, Obama became president 4 minutes ago. But now time for the official swearing-in ceremony.
"Everyone please stand" is funny because everyone out on the National Mall has been standing for hours.
Oops, some mess-ups on the oath. Underlying tension between John Roberts and Barack Obama?
It's official.
Inauguration Day: Post 6
Just a few minutes left...
Feinstein: This peaceful transition of power. Gather to etch another line in the solid stone of history. The freedom of people to choose its leaders is the root of history. We come here every four years to bestow the power of the presidency on our democratically elected leader. The power of the ballot over the bullet. Our work is not yet finished. But today is a turning point. The dream that once echoed from here has now reached the white house.
Wow she just gave an awesome speech. Wonder if she'll end up running for governor here in California.
Ahh sweet. Rick Warren. Everything we see and everything we can't see exists because of you alone. History is your story. The Lord is our God. You are the compassionate and merciful one. Today we rejoice not only in americas peaceful transfer. Wow...um, applause interrupting his prayer. Nice. A land of unequaled opportunities. We know today that Dr King and a great cloud of witnesses are shouting in heaven. Give him the wisdom, courage, compassion we need. Forgive us. May we never forget that all nations and all people will stand accountable before you. We now commit our new president and his wife Michelle and daughters into your loving care.
Wow, he used to name of Jesus. Then went into the Lord's prayer. Interesting.
I'm struck by how differently Warren prayed, compared to what we once heard from Billy Graham at such an event. Maybe my memory is fading. But it certainly didn't feel like the kind of prayer Graham would have offered.
Feinstein: This peaceful transition of power. Gather to etch another line in the solid stone of history. The freedom of people to choose its leaders is the root of history. We come here every four years to bestow the power of the presidency on our democratically elected leader. The power of the ballot over the bullet. Our work is not yet finished. But today is a turning point. The dream that once echoed from here has now reached the white house.
Wow she just gave an awesome speech. Wonder if she'll end up running for governor here in California.
Ahh sweet. Rick Warren. Everything we see and everything we can't see exists because of you alone. History is your story. The Lord is our God. You are the compassionate and merciful one. Today we rejoice not only in americas peaceful transfer. Wow...um, applause interrupting his prayer. Nice. A land of unequaled opportunities. We know today that Dr King and a great cloud of witnesses are shouting in heaven. Give him the wisdom, courage, compassion we need. Forgive us. May we never forget that all nations and all people will stand accountable before you. We now commit our new president and his wife Michelle and daughters into your loving care.
Wow, he used to name of Jesus. Then went into the Lord's prayer. Interesting.
I'm struck by how differently Warren prayed, compared to what we once heard from Billy Graham at such an event. Maybe my memory is fading. But it certainly didn't feel like the kind of prayer Graham would have offered.
Inauguration Day: Post 5
Does the rest of the world really view this day with astonishment? Diane Sawyer just made that comment on ABC. Does the world view the MOMENT that way because of Obama? Or just simply the smooth transition of power every four or eight years?
Nice script/logo in the righthand corner of the screen on NBC.
JFK didn't kiss his wife after being sworn-in in 1961. I'll let you make whatever comments you want.
President George Walker Bush and VP Cheney just walked out onto the platform. Hard to tell or imagine what emotions they feel on a day like this. Last time Bush gets Hail to the Chief played for him.
George H.W. Bush is wearing an ugly hat.
Biden just took the stage.
Wow. All those flags being waved on the National Mall. Remarkable. I'm running out of fresh adjectives.
I can't imagine what's going on inside Obama right now. All the emotions, all the thoughts of what's ahead.
More chants from the crowd. I can't tell how far the crowd stretches beyond the Washington Monument. But lotta people.
Senate and House bigwhigs walking onto the platform.
Barack H. Obama... an interesting choice for the introduction.
It's 8:43AM here. 11:43AM in DC.
A few more comments from Facebook friends:
Nice script/logo in the righthand corner of the screen on NBC.
JFK didn't kiss his wife after being sworn-in in 1961. I'll let you make whatever comments you want.
President George Walker Bush and VP Cheney just walked out onto the platform. Hard to tell or imagine what emotions they feel on a day like this. Last time Bush gets Hail to the Chief played for him.
George H.W. Bush is wearing an ugly hat.
Biden just took the stage.
Wow. All those flags being waved on the National Mall. Remarkable. I'm running out of fresh adjectives.
I can't imagine what's going on inside Obama right now. All the emotions, all the thoughts of what's ahead.
More chants from the crowd. I can't tell how far the crowd stretches beyond the Washington Monument. But lotta people.
Senate and House bigwhigs walking onto the platform.
Barack H. Obama... an interesting choice for the introduction.
It's 8:43AM here. 11:43AM in DC.
A few more comments from Facebook friends:
- Ashli Greenwood O'Connell reminds her friends who think he's the antichrist that he's just a man; and reminds her friends who drank the Kool-aid that he's just a man. Settle down.
- Kurt Johnston Hmm...beginning to question Obama's potential for change; the line at Starbucks was just as long as it always is.
- Erica Abell Huinda is awestruck and wishes she could be in DC today to witness it herself.
- Michele Bilton finds herself glued to the inauguration coverage.
- Jeff Deyo is reminded that as Christians our job is NOT to proclaim judgement on this nation - whether we "deserve" it or not - but to cry out for the MERCY of God!!
Inauguration Day: Post 4
Seeing Bush41 and Clinton together really IS like the odd couple (ABC just made that comment). They embraced and genuinely seem to like each other. Kinda weird.
Dangit, I just missed some "unscripted" moment involving Rahm Emanuel. Something happened as he was heading toward his seat.
Standing O's for Carter. Did I miss the announcements for the other former presidents? Oh never mind. There we go. The Clintons. Wait, so I did miss the Bush announcement? Hmmm. Must be some left-wing conspiracy.
Interesting comments from ABC. The constitution designates the oath of office. The 20th amendment says power transfers at noon Eastern time. At that exact moment, Obama is president. If he doesn't take the oath right at noon, who actually is president?
CNN is showing moving vans at the White House.
Bravo is showing episodes of The West Wing. Appropriate.
I think Katie Couric just called Andy Card "Andy Carr." Figures.
Good Day Sacramento is showing some local political kitsch. Interesting collection of inaugural pins and bobbleheads.
The Obama daughters just had beaming smiles. Apparently they enjoyed the Jonas Brothers concert last night. I'm sure we ALL would have enjoyed that concert...
Aretha Franklin is in the house. Or outside the Capitol. Something like that.
If Obama serves two terms, his daughters will still be teenagers when he leaves office.
Chants of "Obama, Obama" from the crowd. Fascinating blend of politician and pop icon in this one man. That can be bad. Or it can be good. Just depends on how he uses it, and the choices he makes.
Huge crowd there on the National Mall.
30 minutes left. Wow...
Dangit, I just missed some "unscripted" moment involving Rahm Emanuel. Something happened as he was heading toward his seat.
Standing O's for Carter. Did I miss the announcements for the other former presidents? Oh never mind. There we go. The Clintons. Wait, so I did miss the Bush announcement? Hmmm. Must be some left-wing conspiracy.
Interesting comments from ABC. The constitution designates the oath of office. The 20th amendment says power transfers at noon Eastern time. At that exact moment, Obama is president. If he doesn't take the oath right at noon, who actually is president?
CNN is showing moving vans at the White House.
Bravo is showing episodes of The West Wing. Appropriate.
I think Katie Couric just called Andy Card "Andy Carr." Figures.
Good Day Sacramento is showing some local political kitsch. Interesting collection of inaugural pins and bobbleheads.
The Obama daughters just had beaming smiles. Apparently they enjoyed the Jonas Brothers concert last night. I'm sure we ALL would have enjoyed that concert...
Aretha Franklin is in the house. Or outside the Capitol. Something like that.
If Obama serves two terms, his daughters will still be teenagers when he leaves office.
Chants of "Obama, Obama" from the crowd. Fascinating blend of politician and pop icon in this one man. That can be bad. Or it can be good. Just depends on how he uses it, and the choices he makes.
Huge crowd there on the National Mall.
30 minutes left. Wow...
Inauguration Day: Post 3
Why is today meaningful to me? I don't think I was ever in the camp of people who believed a non-white wouldn't be elected president in my lifetime. My parents didn't raise us in that kind of environment, so I'm not shocked or surprised or overwhelmed or astounded by Obama's election.
But I can appreciate the significance and historicity of the moment. It speaks volumes to the world that truly there are fewer limits to someone in this country compared to most other nations around the world. It's inaccurate to say that ANYONE can become president. But after today, it becomes accurate to say there are FEWER barriers to someone reaching that office. In my lifetime, I expect to see a female president and other non-white presidents.
Of course, ultimately Obama will be judged by the content of his administration, not the color of his skin. It's a remarkable day today. I just pray that Obama is able to become the kind of president we need. I fear our last two presidents (Clinton and Bush43) may have been the kinds of president we DESERVED. I pray for change in many ways.
Interesting notes...
The "Biden Blunder" will be fascinating to watch unfold in the weeks ahead.
Who's the public address announcer for the live stuff at the Capitol? He has an awesome voice.
But I can appreciate the significance and historicity of the moment. It speaks volumes to the world that truly there are fewer limits to someone in this country compared to most other nations around the world. It's inaccurate to say that ANYONE can become president. But after today, it becomes accurate to say there are FEWER barriers to someone reaching that office. In my lifetime, I expect to see a female president and other non-white presidents.
Of course, ultimately Obama will be judged by the content of his administration, not the color of his skin. It's a remarkable day today. I just pray that Obama is able to become the kind of president we need. I fear our last two presidents (Clinton and Bush43) may have been the kinds of president we DESERVED. I pray for change in many ways.
Interesting notes...
- A taxi accidentally got in the middle of the motorcade for one of FDR's inaugurations
- The Senate will be voting (already) on some of Obama's Cabinet nominations this afternoon
- This is the first time in US history when a Chief Justice will be swear in a president who voted against his nomination (Obama voted against John Roberts' nomination to the High Court)
- All of the living former presidents are there at the inauguration
The "Biden Blunder" will be fascinating to watch unfold in the weeks ahead.
Who's the public address announcer for the live stuff at the Capitol? He has an awesome voice.
Inauguration Day: Post 2
Some interesting notes and comments among my Facebook friends...
Some comments overheard on TV...
Putting the politics aside and relishing the moment: from Tara Wall, a conservative commentator, on CNN.
I just learned something from Fox News. Dangit. Apparently the inauguration has only been held on the WEST side of the Capitol since 1981, looking out over the National Mall. Incredible. Didn't realize it took that long to make that move. (It was on the EAST side of the Capitol before that.)
My dad and stepmom won a lottery to get tickets to the inauguration this year, but they opted to not go, in part because of the cold, the lack of real accommodations, and the lack of places to sit for hours. Or something like that. I'm sure Dad will comment on this, if I wasn't quite correct.
- Patti Gibbons is grateful that, in America, a new leader taking the reigns of power does not entail a violent coup.
- Mark Batterson our coffeehouse staff is going to earn an extra crown in heaven today. lines out the door. Buses pulling up. DC is caffeinated.
- Heather Werle is watching the inauguration on CNN.com and thinks it's hilarious that there's a Facebook Online Section.
- Kurt Johnston Truly historic moments don't happen very often but today is a biggie...I love the USA.
- Marcus M. Huntley is happy that many of his friends were able to make it to DC to witness history in person... Stay safe, stay warm and take it all in!!!
- Marc Cauthon What a responsibility the President has on his shoulders. So I pray even more for President Obama as he begins.
- Lisa Marie Jarvis Pyle is remembering that there is "NOTHING'S TO HARD FOR GOD", including bringing America back to its knees and seeking God for who HE TRULY IS, THE ALMIGHTY GOD!!
- John Nowacki appreciates President Bush's leadership and service over the past eight years.
- Bill Denton : "GOD, HELP THE UNITED STATES!" - After the swear in on a book (Bible or Koran?), I am committed to praying for Obama, my Commander-in-Chief and boss.
- Jennifer Bonafonte Rieger is watching the coverage and hopeful that her kids will "let" her watch the actual swearing in.
Some comments overheard on TV...
Putting the politics aside and relishing the moment: from Tara Wall, a conservative commentator, on CNN.
- All you can see is a sea of humanity: some guy on Fox News
- This is not an easy moment for them (the Bushes)...and everyone feels the sacredness of the moment: David Gergen on CNN
- I think it's a natural comparison (the Kennedys and the Obamas) for people of our generation: anchor Nick Toma on Good Day Sacramento
- My wife asked how many miles a gallon they're going to get with that car: Charlie Gibson on ABC
- These days, the US Government doesn't buy anything with cash: George Stephanopolous on ABC
I just learned something from Fox News. Dangit. Apparently the inauguration has only been held on the WEST side of the Capitol since 1981, looking out over the National Mall. Incredible. Didn't realize it took that long to make that move. (It was on the EAST side of the Capitol before that.)
My dad and stepmom won a lottery to get tickets to the inauguration this year, but they opted to not go, in part because of the cold, the lack of real accommodations, and the lack of places to sit for hours. Or something like that. I'm sure Dad will comment on this, if I wasn't quite correct.
Inauguration Day: Post 1
It's 7:25am right now. Obama becomes presidents in 95 minutes. I'd love to be there in DC for the event, but I'll settle for the warmth of my house.
Of course, this means my "eye" on the event will be the TV networks. I'm watching Good Day Sacramento; little different take, compared to the major news networks. So far, just a few stations are going wall-to-wall coverage of the event. I expect lots of the cable channels will show the actual inauguration.
It would be fun if ALL of them had to. Can you picture the coverage that the Food Network would offer? Or the Disney Channel?
I don't know which network I'll watch most. I kinda lean toward ABC (not a CBS fan). I might land on NBC a little, and some CNN. Doubt I'll watch Fox News. We'll see.
More later...
Of course, this means my "eye" on the event will be the TV networks. I'm watching Good Day Sacramento; little different take, compared to the major news networks. So far, just a few stations are going wall-to-wall coverage of the event. I expect lots of the cable channels will show the actual inauguration.
It would be fun if ALL of them had to. Can you picture the coverage that the Food Network would offer? Or the Disney Channel?
I don't know which network I'll watch most. I kinda lean toward ABC (not a CBS fan). I might land on NBC a little, and some CNN. Doubt I'll watch Fox News. We'll see.
More later...
Obama: The Face of the Future
Great post from Brad Boydston on his blog, about the arrival of Barack Obama as the 44th U.S. president.
- On the radio they keep calling him the first African-American president. But they're missing the point. He's not black. He's not white. He's not Island. He is fusion (or as some would say "third culture" -- "all of the above") -- which is the future of America.
While it is noteworthy that color is entering the White House through the front door, Obama's historical importance has less to do with how far we've come than with where we're going. The old categories (and related polarizations) are losing their significance. Some will find that reality painful -- but in Barak Obama we are seeing the face of the future.
It's not that we're all just going to get along and live happily ever after (this is not the second coming of Christ). There will still be cultural and ideological conflicts. They're just going to be different in nature than those of the past -- perhaps even more complex.
Monday, November 03, 2008
Voting for President: Part Two
OK, so here it goes.
I voted for Barack Obama, but I'm not an Obama supporter.
Let me explain.
Yes, I voted for the Democrat this time around, but it wasn't out of some passionate, enthusiastic, messianic motivation. But it also wasn't a protest vote against John McCain as an individual candidate or leader.
I've had a peculiarly high interest from friends (especially on Facebook) on my voting plans this year. Maybe some people really care. I think others are just bored or bizarrely curious. I've held off from writing about it because I don't really feel it's appropriate to share that kind of info when serving on a church staff. It's too easy for people to confuse Rob the Voter with Rob the Pastor (who are both different from Joe the Plumber).
In any case, I know that I won't affect anyone's vote by discussing how I voted for president. And if it does, well, you probably need to do more research and analysis on your own, instead of using me as a guide.
These are some of the main reasons I made my decision for president. I will not attempt to pre-battle any of my more conservative friends, some of whom will berate me for my choice. But here are the highlights:
BUSH'S LEGACY
George W. Bush has been a horrible president. Our international reputation and influence have been diminished, largely because of military efforts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Going into Iraq was a mistake, even if Bush will never admit it. When it comes to domestic issues, Bush has failed to live out his self-described "compassionate conservative" agenda. I'm no historian, and I don't even pretend to play one on TV, but I doubt Bush will be viewed too highly down the road. And I don't buy the argument that John McCain is such a maverick that he won't continue many of the Bush failures. So this area shifted me toward Obama.
FAITH FORUM AT SADDLEBACK
I needed to watch this event on TV because I wanted to hear what Obama said in the areas of faith. Yes, I know his answers didn't appease all evangelicals (especially when talking about abortion), but I was impressed. McCain offered a bunch of sound bites and lines that were targeted to evangelicals. Obama proved that he had actually thought through his ideas and opinions. In other words, I'd like a president who demonstrates intellectual capability (more than our current one) and the willingness to speak in nuances and thought-filled sentences (unlike what I heard from McCain).
VP CHOICES
This is easy. Sarah Palin is not qualified to be vice president (or president) of the United States. Plain and simple. And anyone who'd pick her as a running mate wouldn't get my vote. Joe Biden was a safe choice for Obama, but it wasn't a dumb one.
McCAIN OF 2000 VS McCAIN OF 2008
I liked McCain back in 2000. He was more independent and less bound to the GOP power base -- which is why he lost in the primaries, of course. This year's McCain has sounded too much like a GOP boombox.
THE FEAR ISSUE
Sorry, folks, I'm not going to vote for McCain just because of the fear or threat or danger of what might happen under a President Obama. That just strikes me as a small-minded approach to choosing a president.
THE CHANGE ISSUE
I think it's time for some change in the White House. I don't think Obama is the Messiah and I don't agree with him on every issue. But I just couldn't bring myself to vote for McCain or a third-party candidate. This was not a choice of the "lesser of two evils," but it certainly wasn't a choice of two perfect candidates. Still, I'm willing to take a chance on someone new at 1600 Pennsylvania for the next four years. And I know that many of my friends will disagree, but life will go on for all of us.
And if you'd like a nice biblical view on the election as a whole, without an endorsement or a slam, I'd encourage you to hop over to Mark Miller's website and read what he wrote earlier today.
I voted for Barack Obama, but I'm not an Obama supporter.
Let me explain.
Yes, I voted for the Democrat this time around, but it wasn't out of some passionate, enthusiastic, messianic motivation. But it also wasn't a protest vote against John McCain as an individual candidate or leader.
I've had a peculiarly high interest from friends (especially on Facebook) on my voting plans this year. Maybe some people really care. I think others are just bored or bizarrely curious. I've held off from writing about it because I don't really feel it's appropriate to share that kind of info when serving on a church staff. It's too easy for people to confuse Rob the Voter with Rob the Pastor (who are both different from Joe the Plumber).
In any case, I know that I won't affect anyone's vote by discussing how I voted for president. And if it does, well, you probably need to do more research and analysis on your own, instead of using me as a guide.
These are some of the main reasons I made my decision for president. I will not attempt to pre-battle any of my more conservative friends, some of whom will berate me for my choice. But here are the highlights:
BUSH'S LEGACY
George W. Bush has been a horrible president. Our international reputation and influence have been diminished, largely because of military efforts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Going into Iraq was a mistake, even if Bush will never admit it. When it comes to domestic issues, Bush has failed to live out his self-described "compassionate conservative" agenda. I'm no historian, and I don't even pretend to play one on TV, but I doubt Bush will be viewed too highly down the road. And I don't buy the argument that John McCain is such a maverick that he won't continue many of the Bush failures. So this area shifted me toward Obama.
FAITH FORUM AT SADDLEBACK
I needed to watch this event on TV because I wanted to hear what Obama said in the areas of faith. Yes, I know his answers didn't appease all evangelicals (especially when talking about abortion), but I was impressed. McCain offered a bunch of sound bites and lines that were targeted to evangelicals. Obama proved that he had actually thought through his ideas and opinions. In other words, I'd like a president who demonstrates intellectual capability (more than our current one) and the willingness to speak in nuances and thought-filled sentences (unlike what I heard from McCain).
VP CHOICES
This is easy. Sarah Palin is not qualified to be vice president (or president) of the United States. Plain and simple. And anyone who'd pick her as a running mate wouldn't get my vote. Joe Biden was a safe choice for Obama, but it wasn't a dumb one.
McCAIN OF 2000 VS McCAIN OF 2008
I liked McCain back in 2000. He was more independent and less bound to the GOP power base -- which is why he lost in the primaries, of course. This year's McCain has sounded too much like a GOP boombox.
THE FEAR ISSUE
Sorry, folks, I'm not going to vote for McCain just because of the fear or threat or danger of what might happen under a President Obama. That just strikes me as a small-minded approach to choosing a president.
THE CHANGE ISSUE
I think it's time for some change in the White House. I don't think Obama is the Messiah and I don't agree with him on every issue. But I just couldn't bring myself to vote for McCain or a third-party candidate. This was not a choice of the "lesser of two evils," but it certainly wasn't a choice of two perfect candidates. Still, I'm willing to take a chance on someone new at 1600 Pennsylvania for the next four years. And I know that many of my friends will disagree, but life will go on for all of us.
And if you'd like a nice biblical view on the election as a whole, without an endorsement or a slam, I'd encourage you to hop over to Mark Miller's website and read what he wrote earlier today.
Voting for President: Part One
So, tomorrow is Election Day but I've already voted, thanks to my permanent absentee voter status. It's a great option here in California. My absentee ballot was in the mail last week, and I presume it's waiting to be opened tomorrow.
This will be the fifth time I've voted for president (fifth election, not fifth time this year -- I don't subscribe to the "vote early, vote often" mantra of Chicago politics). I've never been particular proud of any of my choices. In 1992, I voted for Ross Perot as a protest vote. I didn't believe George H.W. Bush deserved a second term, but I didn't like what Bill Clinton offered. Four years later, I voted for Bob Dole because I couldn't bring myself to vote for another Clinton term.
In 2000 and 2004, I struggled with my choices. I was never a fan of Al Gore, but I considered voting for him. Because I was going to be in Greece at the time of the election, I had to vote early (in September), and I ended up going for George W. Bush. Looking back, I'm not sure I would have voted the same way. I went through the same struggle four years later, and ended up casting a reluctant vote for Bush again, because John Kerry just seemed, well, just seemed like a bad alternative to a bad president.
I've never been excited to vote for a president. I've never encountered a candidate who stirred me up to believe that we could make things different and better for our nation. I've never been given the option of voting for someone who can truly be a "great" president.
And here in 2008? I don't have that option either.
TO BE CONTINUED...
This will be the fifth time I've voted for president (fifth election, not fifth time this year -- I don't subscribe to the "vote early, vote often" mantra of Chicago politics). I've never been particular proud of any of my choices. In 1992, I voted for Ross Perot as a protest vote. I didn't believe George H.W. Bush deserved a second term, but I didn't like what Bill Clinton offered. Four years later, I voted for Bob Dole because I couldn't bring myself to vote for another Clinton term.
In 2000 and 2004, I struggled with my choices. I was never a fan of Al Gore, but I considered voting for him. Because I was going to be in Greece at the time of the election, I had to vote early (in September), and I ended up going for George W. Bush. Looking back, I'm not sure I would have voted the same way. I went through the same struggle four years later, and ended up casting a reluctant vote for Bush again, because John Kerry just seemed, well, just seemed like a bad alternative to a bad president.
I've never been excited to vote for a president. I've never encountered a candidate who stirred me up to believe that we could make things different and better for our nation. I've never been given the option of voting for someone who can truly be a "great" president.
And here in 2008? I don't have that option either.
TO BE CONTINUED...
Friday, October 24, 2008
VP profiles
I came across profiles of the two major vice presidential candidates on the International Herald-Tribune website. If I recall correctly, the IHT is owned entirely now by the New York Times, so these articles may also have appeared under the NYT name elsewhere.
SARAH PALIN profile
JOE BIDEN profile
SARAH PALIN profile
JOE BIDEN profile
Monday, September 22, 2008
My choice for president...
...will remain my own personal decision, at least for a few weeks. I'm still on staff at a church, and I don't ever want anyone confusing my personal choices with any kind of "promotion" or "mandate" from our congregation.
But I expect that around November 1st, I'll probably post something explaining who I intend to vote for and why. I hope some of you will remain my friends after that. I'm kidding. Sorta. Well, kidding that some of you might be upset when you read my decision, not kidding that I want to remain your friend.
I'm rambling.
I think I'm going to vote absentee once again, but I'll probably wait until the end before filling it out. I hate the thought of voting in the beginning of October but then learning some huge revelation that affects my views and makes me regret my choice.
But for the record, I should state that I will NOT be voting for a third-party candidate, including Ralph Nader, Bob Barr, and Cynthia McKinney. In my book, all three of them are borderline loonies, anyway. So, you can take some confidence -- especially those of you still dismayed over my 1992 vote for Perot -- that I will be voting for one of the two major candidates, warts and all.
And yes, folks, both of them have lots of warts. But if you're really looking to a single politician as the savior of this nation, then you have bigger issues with your worldview, your spiritual condition, and your sanity.
But I hope you'll still be my friend.
But I expect that around November 1st, I'll probably post something explaining who I intend to vote for and why. I hope some of you will remain my friends after that. I'm kidding. Sorta. Well, kidding that some of you might be upset when you read my decision, not kidding that I want to remain your friend.
I'm rambling.
I think I'm going to vote absentee once again, but I'll probably wait until the end before filling it out. I hate the thought of voting in the beginning of October but then learning some huge revelation that affects my views and makes me regret my choice.
But for the record, I should state that I will NOT be voting for a third-party candidate, including Ralph Nader, Bob Barr, and Cynthia McKinney. In my book, all three of them are borderline loonies, anyway. So, you can take some confidence -- especially those of you still dismayed over my 1992 vote for Perot -- that I will be voting for one of the two major candidates, warts and all.
And yes, folks, both of them have lots of warts. But if you're really looking to a single politician as the savior of this nation, then you have bigger issues with your worldview, your spiritual condition, and your sanity.
But I hope you'll still be my friend.
Monday, July 07, 2008
Obama finds support in GOP
Interesting article today about conservatives supporting Obama, from the San Francisco Chronicle, on SFGate.com:
- The "Obamacans" that Sen. Barack Obama used to joke about - Republican apostates who whispered their support for his candidacy - have morphed into a new phenomenon, or syndrome, as detractors like to call it: the Obamacons.
These are conservatives who have publicly endorsed the presumptive Democratic nominee, dissidents from the brain trust of think tanks, ex-officials and policy magazines that have fueled the Republican Party since the 1960s. Scratch the surface of this elite, and one finds a profound dismay that is far more damaging to the GOP than the usual 10 percent of registered Republicans expected to switch sides during a presidential election.
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
Political musings.
I'm fascinated by this year's presidential for many reasons. One of the biggest fascinations is watching a relatively liberal Democrat vie for the votes of evangelical Christians and a relatively conservative Republican largely ignore (or weakly attempt) to connect with those same voters.
I don't know who I'll vote for this November. It won't be Bob Barr, and it won't be Ralph Nader. Not that I oppose the concept of third parties; I voted for Ross Perot in 1992, the first time I could vote for president. But both Barr and Nader just don't cut it.
Anyway, I've been closely following online articles about Obama and McCain and issues of faith. Here are a couple of interesting articles I found today relating to Obama and faith:
Obama focuses on faith; McCain slams earmarks in crime speech
Obama works to mobilize 'Christian left'
I don't know who I'll vote for this November. It won't be Bob Barr, and it won't be Ralph Nader. Not that I oppose the concept of third parties; I voted for Ross Perot in 1992, the first time I could vote for president. But both Barr and Nader just don't cut it.
Anyway, I've been closely following online articles about Obama and McCain and issues of faith. Here are a couple of interesting articles I found today relating to Obama and faith:
Obama focuses on faith; McCain slams earmarks in crime speech
Obama works to mobilize 'Christian left'
Monday, June 16, 2008
Political roundup
A few interesting stories I've come across this evening:
Obama the delegator picks when to take reins
International Herald Tribune
Fiorina woos Clinton supporters for McCain
Reuters, via MSNBC
State-run Chinese paper voices doubts about Obama
Reuters, via International Herald Tribune
Analysis: Age an issue in the 2008 campaign?
CNN
Gore endorses Obama and promises to help him
Associated Press, via SFGate
Obama the delegator picks when to take reins
International Herald Tribune
Fiorina woos Clinton supporters for McCain
Reuters, via MSNBC
State-run Chinese paper voices doubts about Obama
Reuters, via International Herald Tribune
Analysis: Age an issue in the 2008 campaign?
CNN
Gore endorses Obama and promises to help him
Associated Press, via SFGate
Friday, June 13, 2008
Schwarzeneggers debate Obama, McCain?
Great article on IHT about Arnold and Maria and the debate over which presidential candidate to support this year. Good read.
- Of all the supporters behind the two presumptive nominees for president this year, none are quite as intriguing as Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger - a Republican who has thrown his support behind John McCain - and his wife, Maria Shriver - a Democrat who is a vocal backer of Barack Obama.
The lawn of their home has dueling campaign signs. The breakfast table has become a casual debating society. Shriver is even threatening to bring a life-size cutout of her preferred candidate into the house, something the governor has seen her do in other elections. "When one of the candidates screws up," Schwarzenegger said of the cutouts, "the kids carry them outside."
The four Schwarzenegger children - who range in age from 10 to 18 - have already taken sides, though only one of them, Katherine, is old enough to vote. She, too, favors Obama.
What will Bush's legacy be?
The time is quickly winding down on the Bush Presidency, and the International Herald Tribune had an interesting article today looking at the legacy question, especially from a European perspective:
- The finale of George W. Bush's presidency has never seemed more imminent as it has during his tour of European capitals, a farewell visit in which reminiscence, valediction and even eulogies trailed him.
At the Vatican on Friday, Pope Benedict XVI gave the president a tour of the gardens where he prays each evening - the first time a pontiff has done so - and then offered a gift of four volumes about St. Peter's Basilica with an allusion to a life after office.
"Perhaps you'll have some time to read it," Benedict told him. ...
Legacy is a word over which Bush's aides profess not to dwell, and the president himself seems averse to reflection. "The president does not have second thoughts," his press secretary, Dana Perino, once said.
But his legacy hangs over his eight-day visit to Europe nonetheless - in interviews he has given to foreign journalists, in his friendships with European leaders, in his appearance Thursday night with Berlusconi when he had to respond to the U.S. Supreme Court's rebuke on the Guantánamo Bay prison, which remains an unredeemable blemish for many in Europe and beyond.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Cindy McCain vs Michelle Obama.
Great analysis piece on CNN about differences between Michelle Obama and Cindy McCain, and whether the potential First Ladies affect their husbands' candidacies:
- They're not elected. They're not paid. There's no precise job description.
But whether it's an elegantly dressed Jacqueline Kennedy giving Americans a tour of the White House, Eleanor Roosevelt speaking on civil rights or Hillary Clinton saying "I suppose I could have stayed home and baked cookies," first ladies are praised, criticized, adored and scorned -- but never ignored.
The two women poised for the job, 54-year-old Cindy McCain, wife of Republican Sen. John McCain, and 44-year-old Michelle Obama, wife of Democratic Sen. Barack Obama, come from strikingly different backgrounds.
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