Accepting Changes

I came across a blogger saying that she found most Malaysian bloggers are 'ooh'ing and 'ahh'ing over Obama's victory as so pretentious and idol worshipping, but on the other hand are doing nothing about what's happening in our own backyard. I tend to agree with her. But personally, I think what is happening here in USA is a big example and can be a great influence in our own country.

For those who bother to read about US's history, should know that African-Americans has always been regarded as second class citizens. About 150 years ago, they were known as slaves. The Whites and the Blacks didn't mix. They couldn't go to the same restaurant, walked in the same paths, even shopped in the same stores. And all hell will break lose if a White boy happened to fall in love with a Black girl and vice versa. So what happened last night was a big..HUGE leap from what it has been. I watched the Live telecast in the tube, I found most of the Black people were crying. Yes..it was just a dream, but now it has become a reality.

Apart from Obama's being a Black man (his mother was a White woman, married to his father who originated from Kenya), for the Democrats to win the Election is also a big change to the country. They won HUGE, OK. They even took over the Congress. They took over some places who have been Red's territories for some times.

Most of all, I'm impressed with the mentality of most Americans. Even those who supported Republicans are now backing off, saying that 'Election is over, it's now to move on, to come together as One, supporting our Commander-in-Chief, Presiden-elect Barack Obama.' Most of the Republican's candidates also say that they will co-operate with the future President (Obama will be sworn in on January 7th, 2009), agreeing to set aside their political differences and work together for America's better future. Obama, when asked whether he would be asking McCain for advices or ideas, he gracefully said yes, saying that although they (he and McCain) have had different ideas, he deeply respects McCain and he would have no problem working together with the other man.

Now, THAT is a BIG lesson that should be taught to OUR OWN MALAYSIAN LEADERS. I'm sure most of us who are Malaysian would know that the Alternative Front has won big time in our own previous election. (Taking over 5 states IS a big winning). But so far, I have not seen any leaders from the ruling party giving any kind words of assurance that they will hear whatever the Alternative candidates have to say. Instead, they counter everything that the Alternative has to say, sometimes even using nasty words and remarks. Senang cerita, diaaaa aje yang betul. Apa orang lain cakap semua salah. Bila tak ada perbincangan, tak ada pertukaran idea, macam mana nak tau suara hati rakyat? Haihhh...I'm sick of Malaysian politics. Sometimes they even resort to attack the personal sides of the Alternative leaders. Which by the way are mostly wrong facts anyway.

Why are we so afraid of changes? I read a post in one of my Sparkpeople friends. She quoted her grandfather who is 98 years old. He said,

"In life, I learned that accepting change is a must. That we have to make the best of it because even though we may not like the changes, often those very changes bring us some of the most precious gifts we will ever get in our live as well. Don’t be afraid of change, face it head on and make the most of it. It is the secret to a full and happy life. Don’t stress over things and just do the best that you can because that is all you can do."

Now, I find that those are very wise words from a very old man.

By the way, I just found out that Obama's full name is Barack Hussein Obama Jr. His paternal grandfather was a Muslim. (Feeling proud here because my late paternal grandfather's name was also Hussein...err..apa kena mengena ye? Hehehehe..OK.. if I have another boy, I shall call him Hussein...sempena nama cucu Nabi S.A.W., nama moyang dia and nama Presiden US...LOL :-D)

A Black man, who has a Muslim name, will be sworn in as US's 44th President. In 150 years, from Slavery to Presidency.

That is a CHANGE.

Fellow Malaysians, are we ready for a change too? I wonder...

OBAMA - 44th President of the United States of America

The result is official.

Barack Obama is the President elect of the United States of America.

History has been made. Obama is the first ever African American to become the President of this great country. Prior to this, I thought this will only be a fiction in a movie (i.e. Morgan Freeman as President in the movie 'Deep Impact').

He has just given his victory speech in Chicago, his HQ. And I tell you, that man is impressive! He really can give a speech (thanks to his background as Harvard Law School graduate). He said and I quote,

" If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible; who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time; who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer......

.....And to those Americans whose support I have yet to earn - I may not have won your vote, but I hear your voices, I need your help, and I will be your President too.....

.....America, we have come so far. We have seen so much. But there is so much more to do. So tonight, let us ask ourselves - if our children should live to see the next century; if my daughters should be so lucky to live as long as Ann Nixon Cooper, what change will they see? What progress will we have made?

This is our chance to answer that call. This is our moment. This is our time - to put our people back to work and open doors of opportunity for our kids; to restore prosperity and promote the cause of peace; to reclaim the American Dream and reaffirm that fundamental truth - that out of many, we are one; that while we breathe, we hope, and where we are met with cynicism, and doubt, and those who tell us that we cant, we will respond with that timeless creed that sums up the spirit of a people:

Yes We Can. Thank you, God bless you, and may God Bless the United States of America."

Nevertheless, I should give credit to Senator John McCain. He accepted his lost graciously. He said and I quote, "I wish Godspeed to the man who was my former opponent and now is my president."

It has been a long 21 months. That's right. Unlike Malaysia, the time-span for campaign/election processes takes almost 2 years! Kat Malaysia...hari ni bubar Parlimen, 2 minggu lepas tu dah pilihan raya. Nak kenal wakil pun tak sempat daaa..

And Obama has earned it. I'm looking forward to a new USA. More 'likeable' foreign policies. Calling back US Army from Iraq would be a very good start. A more affordable medical facilities for the people would be a great change. As far as I know, people here in US can't survive without medical insurance. As my friend said, "It will cost you your arms and legs if you don't have medical insurance here in US".

Anyway, congratulations to Senator Barack Obama, the upcoming 44th President of the United States. The journey won't be easy. It will be long and hard, but I am very sure that he will be a great President.

A Historical Event For All Americans

Tomorrow is an important day in this great United States of A land. It's the presidential election.

As all know, the candidates are Barack Obama for the Democrats and John McCain for the Republicans. Well, there's only 2 parties here in America. And in US History, no party would rule more than 2 sessions. President George W. Bush from Republican has been in the office for almost 8 years. So, if based on the history, we would say hello to Senator Barack Obama for the next Landlord of the White House.

Unfortunately for him, his grandmother Madelyn Payne Dunham, died today. I feel so sorry for the man. His grandmother was the one who shaped much of his life. As he was saying and I quote: "She's the one who taught me about hard work. She's the one who put off buying a new car or a new dress for herself so that I could have a better life. She poured everything she had into me."

If he will indeed win the Presidential election, it will be a one bittersweet victory for him.

Go Obama!
Obama-Biden for America.

More information at Barack Obama's Official Website.