A Historical Day

Dear Landon and Emma,

For the last few months, our country has been inundated with political messages from John McCain and Barack Obama. Dad and I had to think long and hard about who we wanted to run our country since our current President, George Bush, has made quite a mess. We have always tried to communicate openly with you about our beliefs. Obviously, politics have taken center stage in our family discussions over the last few weeks. During this time, you've listened to us discuss topics like taxes and war, and you've done your best to join in the conversation. A few weeks ago, Dad and I decided we were going to support Obama.

I wanted to document this for you to reflect upon later in life, since you are still a little too young to remember this important day. This morning, Emma, you told Dad that if kids could vote, you would vote for Obama. Landon, you wanted McCain because he wouldn't raise our taxes, but quickly shifted your vote when Dad and I agreed to support Obama. Also, you've been learning about voting and tallying in 2nd grade this year. You were impressed to find out that everyone would vote today AND we would be able to tally the whole United States of America in just one day. Although, you were disappointed to go to sleep before finding out the results.

Well, about two hours ago, we elected a new President of the United States. Barack Obama. I actually went into your room to see if you were awake so I could share the news...I knew you would be excited to see "your choice" win. However, you were in dreamland and I didn't want to wake you. He delivered a lovely speech and I hate to admit that I became a little choked up.

You don't understand this now, but we are currently in terrible times.We are in a horrible recession, people are losing their homes and jobs. We are in an unnecessary war that is costing us billions of dollars, and more importantly, innocent lives. There hasn't been a light at the end of this tunnel in quite some time. The media and people in general are pessimistic. Today's election brought out hope of a brighter future and a promise of change. It felt good to feel optimistic again-and that is why I got emotional.

I worry so much about your future. I hope by the time you read this, things are better and all the sacrifices we've made as a family and as a country, have been worth it. I love you!