How much of what Obama said was what you and I believed in. You and me – the gay, blogging, intellectual, dandy type. Our fathers (and mothers) fought hard for the comforts we enjoy. Our world padded with satin cushions and cool white Ipods, we pity the grubby next. Our ideals we make and remake continuously in our head; they are never called to test, they can stay there safe – shielded by the blood and guts of our fathers.
The men and women who toiled and tilled this land. Who spoke out; fought, died, conquered. This is not our victory. It is theirs. We think there may be no need to fight anymore. No cause to lose our lives in. And yes, we are gracious in our privileges, cautious and mindful in our luxury – we give little and hope for the better of all.
That is Obama’s country. As a brilliant counter to W who exhorted his citizenry to shop after a crisis, O exhorted his to toil through one. Here’s a man who rounds the smooth edges. Who says – all can be Free, and Gay. Obama stands up for the promise of his father, and our fathers – and never for a moment may we think it is ours alone to claim.
We stand in the shadows of those before us. And may only hope to do as well.
India on Edge 