The defining speech that Barack Obama made Tuesday morning, March 18, 2008 is witnessed as one of the greatest of speeches in American history. I over heard parts and pieces and actually read through the entire text here. (The video is there as well.) After reading the transcript of the speech, my emotions are a bit unsure. In a way, I am glad Obama decided to have this speech and face criticism and controversies head on. Especiallly the race issue because everyone makes it a larger part than it really should be. Yes it is in the American history. Yes it effects all races. But if we are to be a true United States and to be a real American, we need to stand united as one and not divided.
Opposing views will surface that would like to flank these issues with other issues and make our minds wander and focus on other problems but we should not kid ourselves. We need to pay more attention to what is close to us; home. The great social divide whether it is the old or young, black or white, rich or poor. The looming fear that the economy is going into recession. Health care for the baby boomer generation ready to retire. Real estate industry faltering and financing on the verge of not being able to withstand. Rise of energy costs and the decline of the once proud American dollar. Its not the war in Iraq we should be focused upon as our valuable resources are being sent overseas to what seems to be an endless war like Vietnam.
Yes, indeed, we need change. Not distractions. Change is never pleasant nor is it easy. But if we work hard together and understand how to get to these goals that can make our country a better place, then we should strive for it. I enjoy especially how Obama ended his speech with the story of Ashley. We should not magnify our resentments or exemplify stereotypes. Change will take place when everyone begins to understand and begins to accept.
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