Ethnick Thoughts

My Post Election Mood: Content

Yes, just content. I am not overly giddy like the 125 thousand in Grant Park, nor am I as bitter as the equally numbered cowboys in Texas. I have found the child-like optimism of Obama supporters and the outright fear of McCain supporters quite funny. Maintaining my neutralism and watching from the sidelines this election year, has opened my eyes to a lot of things I was reluctant to believe before. I’ve witnessed the power of peer pressure… for once used as a positive force. (And I’m not talking Diddy’s VOTE OR DIE campaign.) Not voting today was almost as uncool as leaving your fly down while giving a class presentation. Several local businesses and restaurants (I noticed for the first time in my short life) openly encouraged and rewarded voting with free giveaway out of their own pockets. Why this year? Where was everybody 4 years ago? North Carolina rapper, Median, put it perfectly when he said, “we need a catalyst to spark another powershift!” American finally decided enough was enough. Finally.

This election in my opinion was literally the end-all battle-royale of young (or young at heart) versus old-school. Its like when I realized that I could finally beat my father in a game of one-on-one basketball. I studied AND1 tapes learning new moves, jukes, crossovers and fancy fade-aways. Despite my progressive skills (or change), my father kept playing what he knew best, fundamental basketball. I wasn’t any stronger than I used to be, nor taller. I just figured him out quickly and learned how to take control. And I did.

Switching gears: I believe that the Republicans do not fear “change” with President Obama as much as they fear the mistakes that may occur during his term(s). I have this uncontrollable feeling that Obama is sure to make at least ONE big oopsie during his [8] years. My underlying fear of African-American discredit is lessened by the idea that Obama will most likely be upfront about any type of sticky situations (unlike the past 43). This is the type of change I am excited about!

Fifth gear: I heard a radio broadcast conversation speaking about voting for the lesser of the two evils. I wish it weren’t so, but I feel like it is true. [African American Community: sue me] I’ve been able to look past race in this election, not like it isn’t important or anything. I’ve come to the realization that Politics will NEVER CHANGE. Quote me on that. (I’ll touch up on this topic some other time when my homework isn’t stacked up like Jenga blocks.)

For now, let us not forget that this change will not begin for another two months. Let us not forget about George Bush and his possible attempts (like the last 42) to mix things up before leaving office. Speaking of, when is the last time you’ve heard anything about him in the press during all of this election hype? First things first: Let’s keep him in check. This is Nicholas Smith your forever-undeclared correspondent signing off from Chico. Goodnight America.