November 10th, 2008, a Monday

Isn't it interesting to see how the world is responding to America's choice for its new President?  There is so much hope and joy going around that the planet is hardly recognizable.  One thing we have learned so far is that hope can just be for its own sake, not necessarily for any one thing in particular.  It just feels good to have hope.  I felt tense and worried throughout the fascinating election process, including the part that featured Hillary and Barack, but now I feel calm.  It is always surprising to me that the American public, now famously known as various Joes, including Sixpack and Plumber, believe they know and understand policy and the intricacies of government budgets and taxation.  And now the internet comment posts have given a voice to each Joe.  My advice is to avoid reading these posts at all costs so as not to scare yourself to death.  It is kind of like an accident on the side of the road.  You don't want to look but sometimes you just can't help it.  No, I am just choosing to trust the guy we voted for in great numbers, believing that he will find out what he doesn't know, surround himself with really smart people, and remember to care about everyone.  I trust him.  And I am smart enough to know that he and his posse know a hell of a lot more about running this country than I do.  So get on the love train, people.  We hired this guy, we believed in him, now let's see what he can do. 

Tomorrow is Veteran's Day.  Banks are closed and Federal offices, but lots of companies stay open.  I guess it is because they don't consider it one of the big holidays.  I feel sorry for today's vets, but not for the reason you might think.  Injuries from the Iraq/Afghanistan wars are as bad as we have ever seen from any war and it is going to take more than a village to help these Americans find a way to live with their disabilities, physical and emotional.  But mostly I feel sorry for those who volunteered to serve after 9/11 and have now become disillusioned.  Imagine their confusion and disappointment over the difference between what they thought they were joining and what it has actually turned out to be.  I felt sad as the Iraq war moved further and further down the list of issues Americans were most concerned about during the election until it practically disappeared.  There isn't a lot any of us can do to influence policy on the war (maybe Barack can help with this) but one thing we can all do is remember that veterans deserve our attention and support.  Even if you just think about that tomorrow, it could make a difference.  And it would be great if you could think about it on Wednesday, too. 

I'm thinking about trying to become more quiet although those that know me well may be laughing at the idea of a Gina Rose who doesn't have a lot to say.  I think instead of saying so much, I should be reading more.  Thinking more.  Contemplating.  Learning.  Dreaming.  Dancing.  Do you think that's enough?  For a bear or anyone else?

GR