Even though I know the problems are overwhelming, I feel optimistic about the next 4 years. I wasn't sure that Obama understood how serious the US's situation was, but every debate I watched and every speech I heard reassured me. And his seriousness Tuesday night confirmed my impression.
So, I feel I can shed some of the increasing feelings of dread that this horrible administration generated in me. I can stop wasting that energy, at least, and turn to other thoughts and other actions.
What would all of you like to focus on for the next few years? And not with fear and anxiety, but with a sense of optimism? My wishful thinking below the fold.
The environment is my major interest, and now I feel that we can accomplish more than defense. In particular, I vow to get more involved with ecological restoration, a fascinating issue that I can be involved with the rest of my life, at least as a volunteer.
I want to check out all the great Dkos university offerings. I've been immersed in political issues the last few months, and I have occasionally seen wonderful diaries on this or that subject scroll by.
I want to learn some of this new technology that Obama's legions used so masterfully. I can barely manage a text message - let's be honest, I can barely manage a cell phone call - and I want to learn!
I know the hard place America is in, (I also want to ramp up preparations for Peak Oil), and I know how hard the economy is hitting people. But I hope that this new administration will put its people first, rather than that "financial system" that they claim simultaneously is dead and yet must be resurrected. I hope that everyone will soon be able to look ahead to new goals. What are yours?