On Hope and Guidance

CONGRESS IN SESSION

To the Fair Assembly of this Great United States,

Two pivotal events occurred this week, one great and one small, but both endowing me with new vigor and belief.

First was the monumental election of Senator Barack Obama as the 44th president of the United States. I am an avid supporter of this dynamic gentleman and was thrilled to be on the streets of New York City amid cheers and honking when McCain’s concession was announced. This campaign was really something special. For the first election in my lifetime, there were ways for the everyday citizen to get involved other than just giving money (to go into the pockets of the television network giants).

It occurred to me, while watching Obama’s acceptance speech, that maybe this incredible national involvement will not end. Prior to now, I have assumed that the involvement of the typical US citizen in this representative democracy does not extend past voting and paying taxes. It has suddenly dawned on me that perhaps there is more. Perhaps we the people will play a role, should we accept it, beyond casting our ballot and be a part of the Great Change. I am 22 years old and this is the first time I have really felt proud, and excited, to be an American.

The second encouraging event of the week occurred last night, when Ryan Emmons (New Jersey-D) and I met our beloved teacher and mentor, Marie, for drinks and discussion. For four years, Marie guided, pushed, challenged, and encouraged us and I am so grateful that, though we have graduated, she is still just as much in our lives. With her usual no-nonsense insight, she has helped me see the path again in terms of our company, the current play, and reaching my dreams. Talking with her has reminded me how simple it all is. If something isn’t working, don’t keep slamming your head against it or looking around vaguely for an answer, just go to the source and find what caused it and fix that.

So thank you, Barack and Marie, for allowing me to see how to make the change we need.

Written by Julie Congress