It's a New Day

Dear Isadora,

Last night, the majority of the country decided to re-elect Barack Obama as President of the United States for the next four years.  Today, some people in this country are very, very disappointed and have lost hope.  Other people are ecstatic and continue to have hope for this country's future.  Such is the state of many things in life, my dear.  There are ups and there are downs, but we accept and move on and adapt as necessary.

As you grow and start to understand the world, you will find that everyone has their own idea of what is right and just in this world.  As an American, you have the civic duty of voting and giving those ideas a voice.  It's a beautiful thing.  Sometimes you will find yourself a winner and sometimes you may find yourself a loser.  But I hope that no matter the category you find yourself in, you remain humble and respectful of the process.  Politics, you will find, much like other fiercely passionate topics such as sex and religion, are not the easiest conversations to have with someone, but I hope that you don't grow up oblivious to important events and decisions that could influence how you live your life in this country.  It's important to be informed and want to be informed.  It's important to recognize injustice and use your vote to make a change.  It's a lot of responsibility, I know, but I hope you don't shy away from it.

Mommy and daddy brought you with us to vote in this year's election.  We made it a family affair and headed to our designated voting location a week early to cast our votes.  Did you know that daddy didn't start voting until he met mommy?  Last night, he thanked me for encouraging him to exercise his right to vote.  I will do the same for you as soon as you are eligible to vote.  Just remember -- we may not always agree or see eye to eye on things, but I want you to know that I will always love you and will make an effort to respect and understand our differences.



Always aim to rock the vote, Isadora.  Your voice is important.  Always remember that.

Love,

Mommy