The 2008 election results couldn’t be more divinely ordained than what they are in this moment.  President elect Barack Obama has overcome a multitude of challenges in his life and this presidential race.  I applaud Barack and Michelle for remaining above the fray as they led an impressive campaign.  While there are many of us who can remember an era when segregation was the rule of the day, and for some the remembrances are still very much a part of our memories, let us not taint this victory with thoughts of hurt and bitterness.   Rather, let us be joyful for the change that has come and know that this change could not have happened but for our collective experiences on the path to freedom and equality.  All of the underground railroad runs, the marches and sit ins, the peaceful non-violent demonstrations, and yes the blood, sweat and tears of all who came before.  Now is not the time to relive the past, but to move on to a much larger and brighter moment in the future.  In the words of a very eloquent and creative soul — “And still I rise.”

You go Barack!!! Bring basketball to the White House.  You go Michelle as you bring soul, rhythm and color to the White House.  You go Sasha and Malia, with your new puppy, for you bring the childish laughter and joy to hallways in the White House that have not known such as you before.  I am proud to be an American, for now in this moment it has included me and those who look like me.  While my father John Henry Arrington, Jr. was in the hospital, he watched CNN coverage of the campaign every evening.  He knew that change was coming and I’m sure in his own way, he lent his energies to the success of the election.  Way to go Dad!

Thank you America for believing that “Yes, we can!”