On cynicism and Obama

[nickw]

I admit it - I am cynical. I don't believe change happens top-down. I don't think Obama will live up to most of our expectations. And I was underwhelmed by the balance Obama struck in his speech.

This, however, literally took my breath away:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2009/jan/23/obama-rendition-torture

My grandfather told me, after we watched Rev. Lowery's benediction, that "we shouldn't be so cynical that we miss the good that comes of this."

To live in a country where the President actively reduces his own power and puts it back in the law, where it belongs is truly a beautiful thing. Thank you to everyone who put time into putting this man in office - already, you have accomplished more than I believed possible. This is not just fulfilling campaign promises, this is governing by belief in honesty and justice, and that is no small thing.

I am sure I will be disappointed by some things Obama does, but not today. Today, I'm just proud of him.

[OneBlueSky]

1. I'm actually quite impressed with his first couple of days in office . . .

of course, regarding the secret CIA prisons, the question becomes "will they do it?" . . . they being the career CIA spooks who set up the prisons in the first place . . . if they don't get closed, who's gonna tell Obama? . . .

[nickw]

2. true

Very true - this is not pure liberty and justice, but it is a striving for both, and that's the polar opposite of what our government has been doing. Someone pushing on the brakes is a lot better than someone jamming down the gas pedal.