When in Rome...

Madison, Wisconsin. It was the location of some of the first and most intense anti-war demonstrations in the Vietnam era. It is known to have a strong ethic of political activism to this day. Most spring and summer weekends, there is some sort of march, sit-in, or other grass roots political rally at Capitol Square. Every weekend, at the farmer's market, there is a dizzying array of tables with information about various grassroots organizations. People here seem to like to speak their mind, whether it's a 9-11 truth theory, PFLAG (Parents, Friends and Families of Lesbians and Gays), Anti-Scientology marches (seriously), or Conservative Christian end-times fundamentalists.

Salt Lake City, Utah. Founded, and still largely dominated, by the LDS Church, and it's accompanying culture. There were small anti-war demonstrations during Vietnam, and there have been some today to protest our occupation of Iraq. There is, of course, a small minority of people who pursue political activism. But, in my experience, it is more a culture of blending in and maintaining the status-quo, than trying to make positive changes through grass roots efforts.

I never thought, that when Lee and I moved to Madison to start our family, I'd end up campaigning for a major party candidate for President. I am a proud, lifelong independent. I have been just as jaded as any voter out there for most of my voting life. But, as a new resident of the great state of Wisconsin, I want to say how excited I am to be here, now, during this truly historic election.

The reason that I am excited was made clear to me once more during Wednesdays Presidential Debate: Barack Obama, and his calm, reasoned, intelligent and honest approach to American Politics and Administrative Policy. Not only is Senator Obama's message of restoring a government for the people, by the people and of the people exactly what we need after the last eight years, the way in which it is delivered is like a ray of sun in the dusty halls of American politics. Nothing cleans out filth and stench like the light of day!

The hope and pride that I have always felt for our country has been sorely tried over the last eight years. I am very doubtful that my hope and pride could weather the storm of a McCain/Palin Administration. Yet, seeing Barack Obama handle himself with such respect, courage and honesty reassures me that my doubt is not needed or relevant. The tide is turning against the politics that John McCain has espoused; the politics of hate and fear. Barack Obama should, and I believe, will be the next President of the United States of America.