"Do you ever build up a really favourable impression of somebody you don't really know but think you do (author, celebrity, politician, friend of a a friend)? And then, on meeting them, find out that they don't quite live up to your high opinion or expectation? That didn't happen to me this morning....the Candidate displayed a formidable degree of dignity, intelligence, thoughtfulness, pragmatism, sensitivity, boldness, conviction, and optimism." MEP on meeting Sen. Barack Obama, April, 2007
"The candidate addresses the crowd." MEP on seeing him the second time, July, 2007
"You know, they said this day would never come. They said our sights were set too high. They said this country was too divided; too disillusioned to ever come together around a common purpose." Sen. Barack Obama, Iowa Caucus Victory Speech, January 3, 2008
"Fascinating fact of the day: The woman who asked Senator Clinton the question that made her almost cry subsequently attended an Obama rally. And voted for him yesterday." MEP the morning after the NH Primary, January, 2008
"It is that promise that has always set this country apart - that through hard work and sacrifice, each of us can pursue our individual dreams but still come together as one American family, to ensure that the next generation can pursue their dreams as well." Presidential Candidate Barack Obama, Speech to the Democratic Convention, August 28, 2008
"Two Winners. I knew the outcome of my race by 9:00. Had to wait two hours more for the offical projection of the next occupant of the White House. Today was the most beautiful, bright, mild first Tuesday in November I can remember. All day my heart has been so full." MEP, Election Night, November 2008
"If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible; who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time; who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer." President-Elect Barack Obama, November 5, 2008
"The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness." President Barack Obama, Inauguration Speech, January 20, 2009
So here we are on Inauguration Day. When I witnessed the realisation of an improbable hope I've cherished for four years, five months, and twenty-three days. God bless you, Mr. President. Thanks for the service and commitment that carried you to this day.
And thanks for dreaming so big.
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