What a start to the DNC Convention!
I have to say that I was brought to tears last night, not once, but twice. I had not really gotten caught up in the hype of the first day of the DNC Convention, although I knew I was going to stay up late to watch Michelle Obama’s speech. I was floored when I heard that Ted Kennedy was coming and planned to speak. I had no idea it would have as much of an impact on me as it did.
I was so glad to see him looking so well and strong. His voice was strong and full of conviction. His theme of hope and his willingness to pass the torch was very powerful. He was uniting generations with simple words that were compelling. His support of the Obama campaign has been clear, but he really energized those that were present, and those that were watching. I couldn’t help but think whether Michelle could truly top that.
But, boy did she ever! I learned more about her in the video that was shown before she spoke. I had recently picked up the latest issue of Ebony that has her majestically gracing the cover. I was already proud of her from seeing her speak at various places, but had grown concerned over the attacks on her, and her subsequent disappearance from the spotlight. I was anxiously awaiting her speech to see how she would silence the critics.
She brought me to tears. I knew her story was very much a story that any American could relate to. I particularly moved when she spoke of her father, and I could relate to the loss of such an important man in one’s life and thinking about him every single day. I could relate as a woman of pushing yourself and striving for more. She connected on so many levels. The camera showed many people with tears in their eyes. She gave me goosebumps and I was just overwhelmed with pride. She was so poised, so elegant, so brilliant, beautiful and graceful. She made me so proud to be an African American woman.
The night was highlighted by the interaction the girls had with their father. Barack was jovial and so supportive of her. Those girls really stole the show at that point, really highlighting how much they love their Daddy.
This was the first Convention I have ever really wanted to watch. Ever. I didn’t see Barack’s speech in 2004, although I heard about it the next day. Other than that, I can’t remember ever being excited about a convention. I hope those who have been unclear about Barack, and bought into the negativity that was created around Michelle see the Obama family for who they are. A family deeply rooted in American values, who know the value of hard work, welcome their family onto the world stage on November.
