Proud to be...

The whole world was watching last Tuesday as the United States elected its next leader. For the entire day, I sat on the couch in Erika's host family's Parisian apartment glued to CNN watching as Wolfman Blitzkrieg covered what was widely recognized as the most important election in recent history. I know that were I stateside for this event, I'd be one of the pavement pounding footsoldiers marching in Barak's name. In Europe, however, there's really no point in doing so for more than just the fact that no one here has a vote to give him, but also because it's near impossible to find anyone who doesn't already know that Obama is the right man for the job. In the past couple of months, anyone who learns that I am American has one question for me right off the bat: "You're voting for Obama, right?" Even if I were a red voter, I certainly wouldn't admit it for fear of buying falafel topped with fresh throat sauce. It's encouraging to see the enthusiasm with which the Europeans support Obama. I was, though, quite nervous as if America had chosen John McCain, I'd have to start telling everyone who asks that I'm Canadian.

The night of the election was particularly exciting in the city. There were a number of bars and restaurants who stayed open all night featuring things from big screen presentations of the CNN coverage to free "Barak O-Bagels" for breakfast. These events were widely and prematurely called "Obama Victory Parties" and it was clear in just walking into these places the sentiment: Barak MUST win! Erika and I found ourselves crammed into a bar called The Lions Pub with approximately double the establishment's maximum capacity. Elbow-to-elbow with a roomful of people whose hearts were pounding just as hard as mine roared in joy when Obama's face was on the screen and countered with hissing and booing when McCain dared to show his ugly mug. It was empowering and supremely exciting. For the first time in a long time, I felt I had a chance to hold my head high as an American.

The next morning's newsstands were plastered with pictures of the new US President Elect and there was an air of relief and great satisfaction everywhere. Worldwide celebrations ensued, including a national holiday in Kenya. The feeling is that he is the man to bring change to the world, and almost seems to be regarded as a god. There's so much necessity for reform right now, and he's become the avatar for change. I will be watching from across the sea as he takes on the most difficult job in the world.

I'm so proud of my country not only for electing the candidate I feel is best, but also for breaking turnout records and showing the world that we can do what it takes when it's really needed. America's got something real to stand tall for now.