2008 Election

It is 1:30 AM in Tanzania. I am sitting in my house staring at the TV, wishing I were in the United States for this historical occasion. This could be a true turning point for America. I took a three-hour nap so I could stay up late to watch the election results. It is tough because TZ is eight hours in front of the Eastern Time zone. Staying up through the night is the only way to watch the election results as they come in. I would have a tough time sleeping anyway since I am so excited.

I am mainly watching CNN, but am switching to Aljazeera every so often (actually a really good news organization, regardless of the demonization of the network in the States). A storm just passed through, cutting off the satellite feed. All I had was black screen. It only lasted about 15 minutes, but I really realized how far away I am. I wish I were back in America, sharing in this experience with my family and friends. We are witnessing a special moment in history

There is one thing that people back in the States will not be able to appreciate-how invested the rest of the world is in this election. They are truly excited at the possibility that Barack will win. I know the US media has pointed out on ocassion that Barack would win a global election by a landslide, but it really amazing how much people are drawn to him. They see him as a shining example of change. He is a force. If elected, the view of the America is instantly elevated a majority of the world. This is a good thing--a great thing coming off eight years of disillusionment with Bush/Cheney.

This makes me proud to be an America. The world is involved and invested with the election. I am proud that there is a real possibility that we will elect a black man for the POTUS. This is an extremely powerful example of the American dream, and the world is watching. They are hoping that this happens, because it signals that anything is possible. It signals that America is sorry and apologizing for Bush. That America is ready to engage the world again. Electing Barack is the key to repairing our image around the globe. God, I hope he wins.

5:38 AM Obama just was projected to win Ohio!!!! He now has 194 electoral votes, with California worth 55, Obama only needs 21 more votes. We are so close to a historical moment! I am breathing much, much easier.

7:00 AM CNN just called it for Barack!! A New Day!!!! I cried.

7:30ish AM A thunderstorm hit Bagamoyo and knocked out the satellite feed again, right in the middle of McCain’s concession speech. I missed Barack’s speech. I am sad that I couldn’t see the crowd’s response when he first walked out onto the stage. I am sure it was electric.

So I walked into work in the pouring rain with the biggest smile on my face, grinning like an absolute fool. All my co-workers were very happy with what happened. When they saw me, they all got big grins on their faces, shook my hand and congratulated me. I have never felt prouder to be an American than at this time—being congratulated by Tanzanians that we Americans stepped up and made the right choice or our nations' future. God Bless the USA!!!