I Just Went Outside And Smoked A Cigarette. I Let It Sink In. Then I Cried.

[OPERATIONMINDCRIME]

Didn't plan on it, didn't even feel it coming on. I just simply looked to the sky and started crying.

I've never been so involved with politics as I was the past few weeks. I've exhausted myself with my GOTV efforts and I know many of you have as well. In fact, I sit here right now and wonder how I'm not making a gazillion typos. But regardless, I have not failed to realize for a second how important today was. We just blew the fucking repubs out of the water in the House, and may very well take the senate. This goes a LONGGGGGGG way towards helping our terrifying nightmare come to an end. I think at that realization, I started to cry.

This wasn't a game today, even though it becomes so easy to look at it as one when you are just looking at numbers coming in on screen after screen. But it wasn't a game. This has an impact across the entire goddamn globe. America spoke today. America said that the Democrats ARE NOT terrorists, that we are NOT weak on security, that we are NOT Al-Qaeda sympathizers, that we are NOT wrong on our perception of Iraq and that we CAN lead this country in a new direction: And we will, too.

The tears of joy, relief and exhaustion felt good; damn good. This has been a long two years. Thank you to everybody. And you know who I give the biggest thanks to? The American people.

Yes, the american people did not fall for the fear mongering. They didn't fall for the lies. They went out and voted in record numbers. I just did the tally myself based on 10 minute ago current CNN numbers. The following numbers are JUST for the senate races, and that's not even taking into consideration voters that went out in the 17 other states! Know what the numbers were? 51,010,548, just for the 33 Senate races. That is a huge turnout in my opinion.

So thank you America, for not allowing yourselves to be brainwashed any longer.

I'm not sure how much longer my body can stay up, so if I pass out, I love you all. Thanks DU!

[Straight Shooter]

1. Hey, there, OMC.

:hug:

[file83]

2. That cry was your soul smiling - knowing you have done so much good for

the country, and the world.

Enjoy your sleep tonight, and have wonderful dreams!

[casus belli]

3. Thank YOU! (Hugz)

[Missy Vixen]

4. I'll wait till tomorrow morning

If the results are as great as I am hoping for, the champagne will be chilled, and I'll finally drink the bottle I bought in 2004.
I know I'll be crying, too.

It's been a long, hard road, and the work starts tomorrow morning.

Julie

[Scooter24]

5. I shed a tear or two myself tonight.

:hug:

[jillan]

6. I cried when I had a cigarette tonite too

It is now illegal in Az to smoke!

[Gregorian]

7. Awww... Man.

What an honest and brave thing to share.

Thanks.

It's this kind of thing that makes a group so large seem so small. Like friends. Right on.

[HCE SuiGeneris]

14. We all needed this nightmare to end. I have been

crying for my children's future for too long. Thank you all! :applause:

[Lost-in-FL]

8. Put yourself together

that we have lots of freepers to make fun of.

;-) :hug:

Can you believe we win??? How awesome... can't wait to bug my freeper coworkers.

[OPERATIONMINDCRIME]

15. Trust Me, I'm Together. In Fact,

for the past 10 minutes, with tears re-emerging from my eyes in cycles, each time I look to the sky and mumble "Holy shit we fucking did it. You mother fucking freeper pieces of shit we fucking did it"

That's what I keep mumbling. What these mother fuckers have done to destroy our great nation is like nothing I've ever seen. We've begun to take it back. I CANNOT WAIT TO HEAR HANNITY CRYING TOMORROW!!!!!!

WE FUCKING DID IT!!!!!!!!

:bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

[NMDemDist2]

9. oh sweetie! tears of joy are something eh?

:hug:

[DesEtoiles]

10. all of us will again and again.

[mikeybabe125]

11. This IS amazing... but THINK people...

Did you guys forget about Lieberman...? That snake could decide to lean with the repubs

[NastyRiffraff]

12. I completely understand...

I have tears running down my cheeks right now. THANK you for all your hard work! YOU made it happen.

[blossomstar]

13. I'm proud to be a democrat tonight too! Thank you

your words touched my soul.

[ananda]

16. I'm sobbing.

But not smoking.

This is so big.

[BlueStorm]

17. I think we all feel it. The political dreams I kept having last night

were obviously a good omen. Something (my spirit?0 told me "go vote, it's going to change" I am happy to see that coming true.

Blue

[Tom Yossarian Joad]

18. I'm with you...

And it does feel good.

[blue cat]

19. OK

Now you made me cry. I can't remember feeling this hopeful for my country, after 6 years of despair.

[maseman]

21. I was flying all evening home

I landed about 11:30 EST and had no idea what had transpired. When I saw the TV by the gate we came into the first thing I saw was a huge graphic saying DEMS TAKE THE HOUSE!

I gave a very loud head-turning "YEAHHHHHH" and jumped over some chairs.

Happy dance.

[Shakespeare]

20. As much as we have disagreed in the past, a HUGE HUG for you.

Tonight we are democrats. Tonight we are family. That's all that matters.

[OPERATIONMINDCRIME]

22. Damn Right!

:hug:

(Disclaimer: I can't remember for the life of me what disagreements we've had anyway. I barely recognize your Screenname LOL. It's all good!)

[Guaranteed]

23. The relief. It's glorious.

[smiley_glad_hands]

24. A collective exhale. eom

[althecat]

25. This has an impact across the entire goddamn globe.

Yes it does. And we do care.

Peace Out
Alastair
New Zealand.

[OPERATIONMINDCRIME]

32. Awesome!

Never new you were from New Zealand. Shame on me I guess. But glad you're here with us! Hopefully this can be the beginnings of us improving our image on a global scale a bit!

[tomreedtoon]

26. Democrats did well. Good job. Now...STOP SMOKING.

And this isn't frivolous. I didn't stop smoking all the time I was with my former girlfriend, and it was because...well...in all honesty, the relationship was so bad I didn't mind it if I died.

When I finally got enough courage to leave her, six months later I smoked my last cigarette. That was about fifteen years ago.

I found a reason to live again. I was in charge of my own destiny, not subject to hers. So sure, I stopped smoking.

Now you know that Democrats can fight, when they want to, and win elections. We can turn this country back into a land of freedom and hope; although this is just the first step, it's a big one.

With all that, why shorten your time in this new world, and why take yourself out of the fight, by smoking? Don't know if it's still operating, but the American Cancer Society's "Freedom from Smoking" clinic run by my local hospital did the trick for me, where reduced-tar cigarettes and patches and things didn't. It also treats you like an intelligent person. Give it a shot.

[SeattleGirl]

27. Did some crying my own self, earlier this evening, when the House

was called for the Dems.

[specimenfred1984]

28. The deprogramming is just beginning

As the new Dem house starts getting the truth out into the press, millions of people will be amazed.

[IChing]

29. My btother the truth has set us free

Virginina , I said this, It will come to this,the state of
Jefferson, Washington, Lee,
and give me liberty or death

OH, that guy

[lies and propaganda]

30. Im with you... I bawled.

we're doing something right.

[Jeffersons Ghost]

31. don't put up the tissue yet... this will get waterworks again...

http://lcweb2.loc.gov/natlib/ihas/service/patriotic/100010422/100010422.mp3

[renate]

33. it's not just the joy of winning, it's...

... the joy of winning despite the electronic voting machines.

I am SO HAPPY.

[Gelliebeans]

34. It has been a rollercoaster ride.

So many times over the last 6 years I kept thinking that the public wouldn't stand for anymore deceit and partisan bullying put forth by this administration and so many times I found myself trying to find the strength to fight on.

The community of people here at DU and the extended blogs are so vital. I am so happy but yet I am still scared, I guess all those years of being let down hasn't allowed me the freedom to feel at peace.

Tonight I may actually sleep...unless of course I peruse the misery over at FAUX. NAH, it has been a wonderful day and we done GOOD.

Peace all
GB

[stellanoir]

35. awwwww

I missed this in the wee hours but I'll happily give you your 14th rec.

Not to split hairs but the only point I dispute with you is about the "long two years."

I've not felt this good since prior to the coup of late '00. But at least then there was still a slight vestige of checks and balances.

It was the loss of Wellstone and the sliming of Cleland in '02 that darkened everything.

Now I'm just praying that our national dialogue can rise above this unconscious prattle of fear mongering and we can again become the "land of the lively discussion" that transcends the shouting matches of recent years.

Oh and "oooga boooga woooga smoooga" she said eloquently though sheepishly.

Hope you got some well deserved rest and all your efforts are greatly appreciated.

[OPERATIONMINDCRIME]

41. I Agree With You.

It's been a long six years. I chose to put 2 cause that's how long it's been since the last time we had the chance to put things right. But in reality, it has been a really long 6 years, not two.

Either way,

:bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

[stellanoir]

46. yup for sure

Aaaaaand PHEW !!! I'm so-o-o pleased.

You and I and helderheid are the proud tri parents of our brand new Dem battle cry. :)

"Oooga, Boooga, Smoooga, Woooga."

That was some quadra creation at it's very finest at a moment of great tension and angst :)

"Against the assault of laughter nothing can stand." Mark Twain

Now dear. . .Your mantra for the day is

"I am co creating with spirit that all the votes be counted fairly in Virginia and Montana."

Or you can "Oooga Boooga. . ." the pollworkers in those states over the phone if you prefer to distract them totally.

Sorry but I just can't seem to stop. LOL

Peace bro

[bunny planet]

36. I haven't stopped cryng or laughing.

I'm alternating between the two. This is such a wonderful feeling after six long years of sadness and diminishing hope.
Simply amazing.

[noahmijo]

37. Hey bro..time to cue "Revolution Calling"

or a price Id do about anything
Except pull the trigger
For that Id need a pretty good cause
Then I heard of dr. x
The man with the cure
Just watch the television
Yeah, youll see theres something going on

Got no love for politicians
Or that crazy scene in d.c.
Its just a power mad town
But the time is ripe for changes
Theres a growing feeling
That taking a chance on a new kind of vision is due

I used to trust the media
To tell me the truth, tell us the truth
But now Ive seen the payoffs
Everywhere I look
Who do you trust when everyones a crook?

Revolution calling
Revolution calling
Revolution calling you
revolution calling
Revolution calling
Gotta make a change
Gotta push, gotta push it on through

Im tired of all this bullshit
They keep selling me on t.v.
About the communist plan
And all the shady preachers
Begging for my cash
Swiss bank accounts while giving their
Secretaries the slam

Theyre all in penthouse now
Or playboy magazine, million dollar stories to tell
I guess warhol wasnt wrong
Fame fifteen minutes long
Everyones using everybody, making the sale

I used to think
That only americas way, way was right
But now the holy dollar rules everybodys lives
Gotta make a million doesnt matter who dies

Revolution calling
Revolution calling
Revolution calling you
revolution calling
Revolution calling
Gotta make a change
Gotta push, gotta push it on through

I used to trust the media
To tell me the truth, tell us the truth
But now Ive seen the payoffs
Everywhere I look
Who do you trust when everyones a crook?

Revolution calling
Revolution calling
Revolution calling you
revolution calling
Revolution calling
Gotta make a change
Gotta push, gotta push it on through




:pals:

[stop the bleeding]

38. well put

:grouphug:

[WinstonSmith4740]

39. I know how you feel!

I haven't felt this good the day after an election since 1992. At least what's left of our beloved Constitution will be safe, and hopefully restored.

The best thing is though, right now I feel SO proud to be an American! Our system WORKS, even when we're dealing with the most corrupt, slimy politicians this country has ever seen. We pulled this out because of hard work, dedication, and the fact that for the first time since 9/11, democrats got off their damn knees and fought for every vote! Thanks Howard Dean!!!!!

So to all our friends around the world who have been so patient with us...THANK YOU!!! America will be right back.:patriot: :toast:

[SammyWinstonJack]

40. !!

:applause: :woohoo: :bounce:

[slackmaster]

42. Tobacco is bad for you

Next time smoke a doobie.

[hedgehog]

45. Can we get back to normal now and start fighting over tobacco?

(Runs away)

[bullwinkle428]

43. I broke down last night when I realized how many in my own state had

clearly woken up to what was happening, and suddenly felt such an incredible sense of pride, and it was obvious that this was taking place all over the country...

[wicket]

44. K & R

:kick:

[Clinton Crusader]

47. I didn't come on last night, so I didnt see this thread...

I just posted in GD asking if anyone else was crying last night. I had to leave the room and go put my head against a wall and cry. Im watching Nancy Pelosi and it starts sinking in and I just started.

Relief, Joy, All the long LONG years of suffering, Pride, just a blubbering idiot. Did it again today. Mom thinks Im unhinged, and husband looking at me a bit weird too....

I DON'T CARE! I haven't been this joyful, thankful, and downright delirious since President Clinton was sworn in, which I attended.
SO Proud of us all....

[ronnykmarshall]

48. You just made me cry too!

:loveya:

[endarkenment]

49. Now lets get to work on 08.

The fact of the matter is that they still have all the marbles. They've got the big bucks and the lock on the MSM. What we have is lots of just plain folks all across this nation who have worked their butts off to make this happen. Folks like you and me and the thousands of others right here on DU. And we cannot stop and rest. They aren't finished. They haven't given up. The fight is just going to get harder from here on in.

[byronius]

50. I started crying too, when I read this last night.

But I couldn't post, 'cause I wasn't logged on at home -- I usually only post from work.

[rainbow4321]

51. I first read your post at work last night..

But I didn't want to risk trying to log on from work.


Even before I read it I was the same way and after I read it even more so. I probably looked like hell all night cuz between taking care of patients I felt my eyes filling up and my nose getting bright red.
Picture being that way while working with a bunch of people who barely even knew there WAS an election yesterday never mind took time out to vote.
DU kept me sane last night! What a surreal night.. I started out being satisfied with getting the House and then ended the night focusing on Yellowstone County, Montana, and getting the WHOLE Congress...and then finally letting it sink in that the dictatorship regime is over and done with.

Now I wake up to read Rummy is GONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Judi Lynn]

52. Don't ever find yourself crying while also inhaling smoke. Damned uncomfortable!

Could trigger vigorous coughing.

[adamuu]

53. next time stand away from the wind. j/k. nice post!

thanks for all your hard work.

[RC Quake]

54. Not trying to start a smoking argument

Since I am also a smoker, I completely understand. This is just an FYI of what is ahead of us nationally. This is just the tip of it...

The prop lost...but the popularity among Nancy Pelosi's backyard constituents has me worried. This will pass next time.


California State Proposition 86
San Francisco votes an overwhelming 67.1% Yes votes as opposed to statewide 47.9%

TAX ON CIGARETTES. INITIATIVE CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT AND STATUTE.

Imposes additional 13 cent tax on each cigarette distributed ($2.60 per pack), and indirectly increases tax on other tobacco products.

Provides funding to qualified hospitals for emergency services, nursing education and health insurance to eligible children.

Revenue also allocated to specified purposes including tobacco-use-prevention programs, enforcement of tobacco-related laws, and research, prevention, treatment of various conditions including cancers (breast, cervical, prostate, colorectal), heart disease, stroke, asthma and obesity.

Exempts recipient hospitals from antitrust laws in certain circumstances.
Revenue excluded from appropriation limits and minimum education funding (Proposition 98) calculations.

Summary of Legislative Analyst’s Estimate of Net State and Local Government Fiscal Impact:

Increase in new state tobacco excise tax revenues of about $2.1 billion annually by 2007–08, declining slightly annually thereafter. Those revenues would be spent for various health programs, children’s health coverage, and tobacco-related programs.
Unknown net state costs potentially exceeding $100 million annually after a few years due to provisions simplifying state health program enrollment rules and creating a new pilot program for children’s health coverage.

Unknown, but potentially significant, savings to the state Medi-Cal Program and counties from a shift of children from other health care coverage to the Healthy Families Program (HFP); potential state costs that could be significant in the long term for ongoing support of expanded HFP enrollment.

Unknown, but potentially significant, savings in state and local government public health care costs over time due to various factors, including an expected reduction in consumption of tobacco products.



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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[krkaufman]

55. Well, at least a very slim plurality is no longer comatose. n/t

[LeahD]

56. It's been a long six years, and it's difficult to believe that

things are turning. Congrats DU-ers for all of the hard work.

[Erika]

57. Just think of it as Narnia coming out of the winter

It's been a tough haul.