JONIZZLE

What a night.

A few hours ago, Barack Obama was elected to be the 44th President of the United States of America. Barack Obama. A man of color, an African-American, is our nation's leader.

I write this for my own memory, because I did not realize until tonight just how momentous of a moment November 4th, 2008 will be in American history. And the pride and joy that I felt for my country when Barack Obama strode to the podium as the President-elect in Chicago is something I want to remember.

Just over a generation ago, there was widespread bigotry and racist hate in this country. We still have a ways to go, but this night marks a turning point and shows just how fast America can better itself.

In his campaign, Obama used the words change, progress, and hope often and openly. I originally thought that these were a little cliche, but you know what? Because of this victory, supported by a majority of the people of all ages and races, shows that change is real, that progress is real, and that gives me real hope.

Change, Progress, and Hope. It's true in America.

Now the real work begins. I look forward to seeing Obama walk the walk, and I also hope that John McCain is part of the success that this country will hopefully see. We're very lucky tonight to see two competitors gracious and empowering in both victory and defeat.

Lastly, "To all those watching from beyond our shores, our stories are singular, but our destiny is shared, and a new dawn of American leadership is at hand.''

And I go to sleep tonight a more inspired American than ever before.