On my list of “Things To Do Before I Die” is to volunteer for a political campaign. I’m reminded of this life goal each election night as I watch everyday citizens experience the thrill of victory or the agony of defeat depending on how their candidate fared. There is something so inspiring about people giving their heart and soul to support the democratic process. Despite this annual reminder, I have yet to step off the sidelines and jump into the grassroots game.
Sadly, my 16-year old daughter has beaten me to the punch.
For her government class, Caitlin was required to volunteer for a political campaign. This weekend, she spent several hours canvassing for Obama in the pouring rain. I was her “wing man,” driving her from house to house, keeping up her spirits when she received a less-than-warm welcome (which was rare), and giving her my sweatshirt to wipe herself dry after each downpour.
From the comfort of my car, I watched Caitlin ring door bells, greet the occupants, and launch into her rehearsed questions. After the first few visits, I was able to predict the outcome of the interaction by observing Caitlin’s body language as she stood talking on the front stoop. At an Obama house, Caitlin would lean forward and tilt her head to the side as she engaged the homeowner. Conversely, I could tell when she was talking to a McCain supporter; she lifted her chin a bit higher and tucked a piece of hair behind her ear. Regardless of the household’s political leanings, Caitlin always ended the conversation with the smile (even if the smile disappeared the nanosecond she started for the car).
Watching her play a small, but important role to support the democratic process filled my heart with pride. How was I so lucky to have such a courageous and civic-minded daughter?!?! (Yes, I know she was out there because of a class; however, her request to canvass again next weekend was above and beyond the class requirement.)
What have you found to be inspiring this election season? I’m not talking about the passionate speeches of candidates or the political ads designed to push our patriotic buttons. I mean what are the small, grassroots-level actions you’ve witnessed that reminds you of how lucky we are to live in a democracy?
10-27-2008 09:47:29
I LOVE THIS!
si se puede!!!
“Half of the American people have never read a newspaper. Half never voted for President. One hopes it is the same half”~Gore Vidal
for my fellow obama sisters:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2fZHou18Cdk
10-27-2008 09:51:03
I went to the Obama rally in Leesburg last week and while it was cool to hear him speak and actually see him (well he was only an 1/8th of an inch tall from my vantage point), the most inspiring part were the people. I stood in line for well over an hour and got to meet so many like minded people. The crowd was energized yet still polite and respectful. I couldn’t believe how many young people were there. I’m not sure that all of them would even be able to vote but to see their excitement over the process really brought home what it means to be an American and live in a free society!
10-27-2008 15:29:31
You should be proud of Caitlin! My son also worked on the Obama campaign last spring when Obama visited the campus at U of Notre Dame. Since a good many Catholic students at ND are conservative Republicans, for religious reasons, it takes courage to come out as a Democrat in that kind of environment. I was proud of my son for standing up for his convictions when so many of his friends were opposed.
I am also very proud of many women, like you, who’ve shown courage in writing and blogging about your political choices. Many Obama supporters in my conservative neighborhood are scared to put out signs, and are afraid of being rejected for speaking out. I respect the right to keep one’s politics private — yes. But most of all, I truly admire those who speak their truth honestly and without slamming others with opposing views. I am very proud, too, of those who’ve researched the issues carefully — and have dared to change their minds.
10-27-2008 15:55:34
Good for Caitlin! What an important and impressionable thing for her to be doing right now. I remember friends talking about going to an Obama speech in Va. Beach well over a year ago. Their experience was very similar to Leanne’s – a long wait to get in, but fun and inspiring sharing stories with people in line. And inside, Obama was electric – she was blown away – and her young daughters (3rd grade/6th grade) were also very excited by it all.
Separately, I have a friend that was just laid off from her job. She’s taking the bull by the horns and going off to work for her candidates’campaign in a swing state.
Kudos to all who can and do do that.
10-28-2008 19:16:06
I have been inspired by local candidates who have knocked on thousands of doors and worked for months getting their message out to their constituents. The past couple weeks I have been able to help with mailings and phone calls for an energetic young man running for state senate. With one week to go he has a good chance against the incumbent. It has helped me to focus on possibilities at the local level.