Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Laura Petrie and Barack Obama

Remember the Dick van Dyke show? Remember how Laura Petrie would always say she didn’t want to be the one to say “I told you so” to Rob?

Well, I am not that way. I like to be right. In fact, I quite often tell people that I am always right and the world would be a better place if people would just listen to me.

Of course I am teasing… mostly to get a laugh. But there is no question that I love to be right.

But right now, at the close of this historical day, I hope I am wrong. Dead wrong. I don’t want to be right. I want my Obama-loving-brother-in-law to gloat over how wrong I was.

There has been no question of my political affiliation and how I have felt about having Obama as Commander in Chief.

I don’t like the idea.

Without going into detail, I have major concerns over his intentions as president. Between internal conflict with things he says and does and my truck load of conspiracy theories, you can rest assured that I did not vote for him.

That being said, as an American and one who loves “Cinderella” stories, I couldn’t help feeling a sense of respect for the man that beat the odds.

That overcame a history of prejudice to lead the greatest nation in the world.

Today, as I watched Obama being sworn in, I had mixed feelings. I was honored to be able to view history in the making. Amazed at his brilliant campaign and political savvy. Impressed by his intelligence and inspired by what he triumphed over.

And then came a small sense of loss. Loss for loosing President Bush (Yes, I actually liked him and no, I don’t think I will blog about that right now) I felt a hope that maybe, just maybe, Obama’s intentions are good. That he is a God fearing man, that he wants to uphold our constitution. But sad to think that maybe I have been right and he has duped a nation.

But here is what I have decided it comes down to… He is my President. Of my Country.

I may not agree with him. I may not like what he does. But, as an American I feel I must offer my support. Not to say I have to agree with what he does, accept unconstitutional changes or sit idly by while things happen I don’t like. The beauty of our nation is that “We the People” can change things if we need to.

No, I mean offer him my support by other means. And the only way I know to do that is the same way I have done for my other presidents.

Prayer.

There are some benefits that come of praying for our president. First and foremost, it is the toughest job in the nation and no man can do it successfully without divine help. So every president needs our prayers, maybe especially Obama.

Second, you can’t hate someone you are praying for. While I differ so greatly on issues, I can feel peace towards the man that is leading this country.

And, maybe, just maybe I have judged him wrongly. Maybe, he will do good things for our nation.

Let’s hope and Heaven help him.

Octamom posted a beautiful reminder about praying for our president. If you have a minute, check it out.

7 comments:

Laurie said...

Well said. I will be praying.

emily and Nate said...

thank you for that, I really enjoy your blog, hope you don't mind if I stop in every now and again
Em

queenbee4 said...

I think that you are right on. I didn't vote for him and honestly I'm kinda freaked out... but I sustain him as long as he upholds the constitution and does what he has sworn to do. I think it's important also to teach our children that even though we don't always agree, we are repectful to others and supportive of our leaders as long as they are leading us righteously. thanks for this post..you have helped me put some things into perspective.

Jen said...

Thanks for your honesty! I didn't vote for Obama either, but I am hopeful--hopeful for this nation and prayerful--prayerful that he'll be able to pull this economy and war around.

Simple Stitches AZ ~ Rachelle S. said...

I have to just say "ditto"! You said it all so well Kathy. I have felt these same exact feelings. We can pray & we must, IMO. I think about how much our prophet (& many other church leaders) has encouraged us to have hope. We do have a lot to be hopeful for & we need to be.

I too am like you & voice my opinions quite openly (in fact, I just told a neighbor kid, who is playing at the park behind our house, to watch his mouth-as many curse words came out that I don't want my kids to hear).

Tori said...

You put my thoughts into words better than I could right now (my thoughts are too jumbled). Prayer is a powerful thing and just what is needed at this time.

tworeeders said...

You don't know me but I feel so much of the same feelings. My husband and I are super conservative didn't have much hope with either candidate. We will miss President Bush who we have always felt like he counseled with our Father in Heaven with the decisions he had to make in our behalf the people of the United States. I'm sure he felt such a burden. I agree we must support the new President Obama until he goes against our core belief. We must always remember We are the People!!!!! they work for us not themselves, we must remember not to be complaciant in what we believe, and to make our voice heard. Yes I am a member Of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.