I Didn't Think It Would Hit Me

[Symarip]

I just didn't think I would lose it. And then it fell on me on so many levels. Optimism, hope, love... Yeah, even love. I was immersed in emotion. Actually, I still am.

I called my best friend back home and wept. He's black. I can't imagine what he's feeling right now. I told him that for the first time in our adult lives, today is our day. We actually did something: you, me, anyone reading this, all of us. We did it.

Some of my first moments on the line to him I kept saying inbetween sobs, I just want my country back. And you know what? I'm going to get it back and thensome. Because we deserve it. I don't necessarily want revenge (though that would be nice), I'd rather have true vindication.

Anyone's who reading this, I'll tell you, I'm a nobody. We're probably all nobodies. But today is a testament that we can all do something. So let's not stop here. I know some people are angry with wherever it is we are. We have a long way to go: civil rights, equality, decent living, all of these things. We can get there.

WE CAN GET THERE.

Today's just the beginning and as a cynic and someone who is normally unable to be persuaded, I think the door just might be open for possibilities as far as the imagination can stretch.

I can't wait to see you all there.

[Bragi]

1. Well said. Thanks. /nt

[LiberalEsto]

2. I went through six tissues

watching his swearing-in and speech.

[Symarip]

3. Personally, I didn't expect the tears

I envisioned a happy day with looking people in the eye and a few high fives. I really didn't expect to pull out the tissues at Hooters.

Fuck it, though. I'm glad I did.

I WANT MY COUNTRY BACK.

And not just back. I want it in better condition than it was when it left me 8 years ago. Is that too much to ask?