Tuesday, November 4, 2008

God Bless America!

The President-Elect and the First-Lady-to-be.

"Yes, we can heal this nation. Yes, we can seize our future. And as we leave this great state with a new wind at our backs and we take this journey across this great country, a country we love, with the message we carry from the plains of Iowa to the hills of New Hampshire, from the Nevada desert to the South Carolina coast, the same message we had when we were up and when we were down, that out of many, we are one; that while we breathe, we will hope.
And where we are met with cynicism and doubt and fear and those who tell us that we can't, we will respond with that timeless creed that sums up the spirit of the American people in three simple words -- yes, we can."
- Barack Obama

60 comments:

Elizabeth Halt said...

Yes, we can.

I am so full of emotion that I cannot stand it. Amazed, inspired, hopeful, and ready to do my part.

I have never been more proud to be an American and to be a part of history. :)


I was disappointed, however, in one thing. Sen. McCain was cheered in Grant Park. Sen. Obama was boo'ed in the Biltmore. I did, however, very much admire McCain's concession speech - very gracious.

Anonymous said...

Wooooohoooooo!!!
-Joanna

Anonymous said...

Glad someone's happy. ;) I can respect that history has been made. That's exciting. Other than that, I, of course, am sad.

In regards to E's comment... I don't believe the booing says anything about anything. ;)

Of course they didn't 'boo' Obama's comments about McCain. They'd already won, why would they smear that in the Republican campaign's faces? They were being gracious. Republican's lost. Of course they're going to 'boo' comments on Obama in support of McCain. Whether I agree with it, or not, I can respect that.

Laura Jean said...

Bring it, Obama! I am ready to see what he will bring to our country. It's so hard to see through the b.s. in campaigning, so I am really excited to see what actually WILL be done to fix the economy, end the wars...etc. I am optimistic!

Congrats, Leanne- I know you're the most excited person that I know right now! :)

MindiJo said...

I'm happy for you.

But to be honest, I'm scared. Because of his religious beliefs and the people he chooses to keep in his company. Socialism. I can't help it, it scares me. Even his wife scares me. I pray that I am wrong. Because I want this to be a good thing.

This election is a milestone, though. We've elected our first black president. Yeah for that!

I agree with JJ. As for Elizabeth's comment, I was shocked that the Obama fans did not cheer when Obama so graciously thanked McCain for his service to our country. No matter your political party, that should be something that everyone cheers about. He deserved more. Well, they did eventually cheer, but it was very much delayed. And half-hearted.

I guess it shouldn't be a surprise that he won, I think George Bush was McCain's biggest problem. A lot of people are tired of him, red and blue alike.

Both men were very gracious to each other last night. We should all follow suit. I can appreciate that very much.

No more negatives, let's please just move on. Shall we?

MindiJo said...

Two more quick things: We should remember that no matter who is our leader, we need to show respect for him.

And the other thing: Alaska's governor is going home very well dressed. ;) So good things come out of everything.

Leanne said...

Mindi. I love you. But here's the thing: you cannot talk about fear and socialism and then say "no more negativity." I can't not say anything. I'm sorry you're fearful, I hope you come to peace with that. As was evidenced yesterday, many people are NOT fearful. They're hopeful and trusting. And felt really good about the outcome of the election.

Also, you CANNOT judge that crowd for the reaction to John McCain. They were there to congratulate Obama. I have never met someone who didn't respect McCain's service, no matter how "liberal" they are. You can't honestly believe that those 125,000 people at Grant Park disrespect McCain. At least they didn't boo.

Okay, I think I'm done. I understand your disappointment, but I felt the wind get sucked from my sails and I had to say something. Sorry! :)

Anonymous said...

I have to defend Mindi, even though I know I don't need to. She expressed her fears (I have the same) and then when she was done she said no more negativity, let's move on. Nothing wrong with sharing those fears and thoughts, and then feeling better by being able to do so, and then moving on.

MindiJo said...

Leanne, I love you, too. So trust me when I say that I am replying as kindly as I can.

I feel this is unfair. Elizabeth mentioned she was disappointed with the McCain fans response. So I should be able to do the same. And I understand both. I just felt as those I should make a point. Believe me, I know Obama's fans were there for Obama. McCain's fans were there for him and their emotions were just as strong. Just different. So maybe both sides could have responded differently, but they were running on strong emotions at the time.

I only meant to say what scares me. And I know that my fears may not be necessarily true, I pray to God they aren't, but they are my fears. They stem from what I have seen. I know I may not have the whole picture. That's why I pray that I am wrong. And I have faith that God will take care of us.

I know how excited you are, so I tried to point out the good things that I can see. So I am sorry if I took the wind out of your sails. That's not what I meant to do. I hope you enjoy this victory and have a good rest of the day. Truly, I do. And I promise I will try to see what so many other Americans can see. (Good point you made on that.)

For what it's worth: this discussion between you and I brought out more emotion in me than the actual election results. Because your friendship is more important to me than any election results ever could be. :)

Thank you, Tara, for seeing what I meant to say and for defending me.

Let's continue to agree to disagree.

Leanne said...

I suppose this is a discussion that would have been better had in private, via email or something. But since we started it here, I'll continue. I think we're both strong enough to handle it (funniest girls in the congregation? How about the strongest?!)

Look - at the end of the day we love our country. We love each other. I feel really strongly about the things you're afraid of, so I realize my response might have been less than friendly. For that I apologize. I just think that a lot of them were ficticious and said to create fear...job well done, but very dangerous.

I urge you to read Audacity of Hope. Get to know him, and I think you'll feel much better.

I told myself that whatever happened last night I was going to be gracious. So I was prepared to surround the McCain/Palin team with love and prayers for the future if they won last night. I did not receive the same sentiments (here and elsewhere) so I got defensive really quickly. For that I also apologize. My lack of graciousness (ie, "bite your tongue, Leanne!") to you here isn't what I intended either.

Forgive me?

Anonymous said...

Ok .. so I'm wondering..Are all the false rumors abt Obama gonna stop or am I going to have to listen to He's this and He's that for the next 4 yrs? I really truly believe most ppl didnt check their facts on him and wonder now if they will, I'm guessing Not!

Leanne said...

I don't know, Shannon. I think people will move on. I also think that at the end of the day, those things won't matter once he proves them to be false. Time will be our best friend now.

People get (understandably) passionate about elections, this one more than others. The election season is over. We'll talk about it for a few more days and then move on.

I hope people stay more in touch now, though. I think politics is better with more people involved!

Anonymous said...

WOW! Is this the political blog! I guess being the day after and all....May this country be looked after and guided by honest men and women that trust in a higher being. Amy

Leanne said...

Amy - that seems like the perfect prayer.

Anonymous said...

I have one question to ask you. How can you call yourself a Christian and go to Church and Vote for Obama? He does believe in something that we base part of our faith on and that's not to abort babies. I really don't think people actually see what this man really stands for. This saddens me.

Leanne said...

Tell me who you are, and I'll be glad to answer you.

Laura and Davin said...

Anon:

WHOA!!! Maybe I should keep to myself, but, REALLY? How can you call yourself yourself a Christian and judge like that? As a Christian myself, I have been taught not to judge others.

I'm baffled. And angry at the attack.

Anonymous said...

I'm not judging anyone, I just asked a question. I don't understand, if one can believe one way in faith, how can they just put aside ones beliefs and support someone who is totally on the opposite end? That's all I'm asking.

and I'm a fellow traveler in faith.

Laura Jean said...

First, you really should make yourself known.

Second, I cannot say that Obama is any different from myself. As far as I know, we look the same in God's eyes.

(I'm Laura from above- accidently signed in differently before)

Leanne said...

Here's the thing. Barack Obama is not pro-abortion. But he doesn't believe it should be illegal. He knows that women would continue to practice abortion and then it would be unsafe and unregulated. If you line up all of the candidates' positions, I'm sure you'd be surprised that some of them are less "moral" than you'd like...on both sides.

Here's what I'll say: Obama is a Christian man. Google his "Call to Renewal" Keynote speech if you want to read his story. He's a good father, and a loving husband. At least half of this nation feels like he's a good human being, as does John McCain as he has said many times.

To judge either Barack Obama's relationship with God or mine does feel like judgement. I very sleep very comfortably at night knowing that all of my decisions are prayerful. I think about how much of what I do and say is filled with love for other people. I think about whether or not I am surrounding myself with like-minded and -souled people. I believe that I am. I am at complete peace with my faith and my vote.

And while I feel like I'm defending myself to a stranger (again, I ask for your name), I'm sure you're not the only one with that question. I've always said I'll talk about this all day long. I just prefer to know who I'm talking to.

There is my answer. Hope it satisfies you.

Anonymous said...

I respect what you have to say, tho I don't agree with you about Obabma.

He is not a Christian he is Muslim, whether people believe it or not, and if one actually researched him they would know that and much more about him.

In his own state of Illinois he passed a law that would allow the doctor NOT to revive an aborted baby if it was still alive after it was aborted.

Again, I am NOT judging anyone. I do feel however that if you can air your beliefs you should be expected to hear from people without jumping in and saying they are judging. If you stongly believe in what you do or say, you shouldn't ever feel like you are being judged.

I don't feel any ills toward what you wrote. I just don't really quite understand it.

I won't say my name, just know that being a fellow traveler in faith is not a stranger.

and Laura, this isn't to you or about you. I asked Leanne a question not you. So please don't take offense if I don't respond to you.

Leanne said...

I thought about taking your last post down. I'm still thinking about it. Please email me your proof of him being a muslim, I'd love to read it. I've been researching him thoroughly for two years and I've never seen any kind of proof. But if you can provide it now, I'll be glad to take a look (but if it's an email someone forwarded you, don't bother).

Clearly "traveler in faith" is enough for you, but it's not for me. My sister is sticking up for me (thank you, Laura) and I expect others will as well if they see so fit.

I do not lend any credence to your argument because you won't tell me who you are. Seriously, have at least that much courage (or just email me if you don't want everyone here to know).

Anonymous said...

Wow, the aftermath is generating a ton of energy! (and heat!) ;)

Most conservatives have real fears about Obama. And now that he's been elected, those fears may come to fruition. I sincerely hope we're wrong.

In regards to the abortion issue. - Whether you passively aggressively take a stance or agree with it, they're both the same to me. But I also worry about many other things he stands for.

Sadly, while Democrats celebrate today, we live in fear and worry. {It would've been the other way around had a Republican won.}

I'm not trying to be confrontational, I think it's important that we all respect each other and agree to disagree. Everyone's opinion is important, whether we agree or not. We need to remember that emotions are running high on all fronts (even my own).

Most of those who voted for Obama, don't know him 'personally' no matter what they've read or heard. ;) Just as we've heard the negative, you may have heard the positive. At the end of the day, we all need to remember that time is the only thing that will tell what will be...

And the most important thing that anyone can do at this point is pray that, ultimately, God will continue to guide our beautiful country.

~ Jennifer

Leanne said...

Living in fear and worry is a CHOICE. Choose not to. Actually trust God, not just say you do.

Anonymous said...

I also feel strongly about the stance on abortion, and that is a big part of why I am a republican. Not the only reason, but an important part of it just the same. I do not know who is posting anonymously, but I do also think it is good when others help us to stay on the right path, and sometimes we can feel judged ( I know I have felt judged in the past, but mostly it was my guilty conscience that was creating most of my anger and feeling of judgement. I am not implying anything by that comment, just my personal realization). Not everyone on this blog, however, believes the same way and those are personal choices that we make, just as we chose to vote for those who most closely reflect our views and beliefs. While I think this is a sensitive topic and can create a lot of anger and ill will, I do think it is good to be open to what others are saying, and then do with it what you will. Peace out :-) Tara

Anonymous said...

Leanne ~ For us to 'choose' fear is a simple human stumbling block. Yet, it doesn't make it any less real for us. If only we could be that strong to never waiver in our belief that God will take care of us. But, we are all human, after all... So, sometimes we 'choose' fear... It's part of our imperfection...

MindiJo said...

Wow! While I had been writing, your comments went from 20 to 26. Then mine never posted for some reason. So I'll sum it up quickly:

For a lot of us, religion is our first priority when electing a president. And so to many of us, there are issues that are black and white. Abortion is one of them. I feel like that is what "nameless" was trying to say.
I can understand how you may have seen it as an attack. The first time I saw that, I did. Then I reread it and now I think I understand.

Of course I forgive you and I hope you will do the same for me. Although, it was an emotionally-charged discussion which is completely understandable. You don't always have to apologize for stating your opinion.

It's funny, after an election, everyone is so tired of all the political backstabbing. But then we elect someone and there is always backlash. It is easier to take it all in stride when your candidate is chosen, I have to admit.

Our freedoms, including freedom of speech, are all really wonderful. But we still need to not be hurtful in the process.

I agree, everyone's emotions are heightened right now. So we have to take it all with a grain of salt.

I disagree: I have faith that God will take care of us. But it is all still so fresh, so we are allowed to feel however we want. Yet still believe he'll take care of us. Ex: If you lost someone you love and you know God took them, it still hurts. Not even close to the same situation, but my point is: you are still allowed to feel emotions.

MindiJo said...

Heh. Guess that wasn't exactly "quick".

Anonymous said...

I didn't realize that asking a question would generate so much.

It's your blog, if you want to take my comments down that's your choice.

But, I question why you would. If you are strong in what you feel, you shouldn't be afraid of someone who opposes you on any issue and you shouldn't have to have anyone stick up for you.

I'm sorry this has caused so much uproar, and as far as knowing who I am...well, that will have to wait for now.

Laura Jean said...

I maintain that it is absolutely cowardly to refuse your name.

Leanne is the most kind person I know- I have never known someone who is so strong in her faith. I see some of the comments here as more than an opinion. Of course we all have a right to our opinons- that's a freedom we have as Americans! However, some "facts" about Obama are not true. Leanne HAS done the research. When I have had questions she tells me where she read something, then I read it, and decide for myself if it is a credible source. I have found comments true and false. He is a Christian- he does want to regulate abortion, but not because he is pro- that makes sense to me. Hey, I voted for McCain. While I don't feel upset that he didn't win, I think it's okay for those who are upset. But in the end, none of know where this country is going- we wouldn't had McCain been elected. Obama has the next 4 years to prove himself, and I, myself, tend to give him the chance. What choice do I have anyway?

MindiJo said...

Leanne,
Now you understand why I got upset when I got "anonymous" comments on mine.
I forgot to mention: The "strongest" comment made me giggle.
Thanks, I needed that.
I know how you feel about all of this. When I was so excited about Palin and I started getting some of the comments I got... It's like, now why did you have to go and burst my bubble?
You are one popular woman today!! Wow. You hit the 30 mark on comments. I have to keep checking back because this is an interesting discussion going on.

Leanne said...

Why would I take them down? Because as far as I'm concerned it's totally against blog etiquette to not post your name. I allow for anonymous users so that my sisters and others can post without a google account (but they always sign their name). Please don't post anything else without your name. I'll delete it. It's rude of you to barge into my blog with very controversial posts and not have the courtesy to tell me who you are. I've been patient all afternoon waiting, but clearly you think it's unimportant. This is my blog and I do not.

Leanne said...

Oh, and I'll be waiting patiently for your Muslim proof. You sound very sure of yourself.

Leanne said...

I have no problem with people having a different political opinion than me, or with discussing it here. I DO have a problem with the personal attacks on me and my faith. Be nice.

Leanne said...

Mindi - I felt for you then. I'm sorry you went through it then and that I'm going through it now.

Leanne said...

Laura - I love you.

Anonymous said...

Hey, sister! You sure stirred the pot here and it sounds as though someone who is too cowardly to sign their name has some pretty good jabs to make! Hang in there. This country will go through what it will and people have the rights to their fears. But to target one because of those fears seems unjust to me. I love you. You are an awesome sister and am glad that you are part of our crazy albiet loving family. XOXO Amy

Anonymous said...

Leanne, I'm genuinely sorry you feel attacked. I can see how feel that way with the way anon. worded their comments...and so, well...'anonymously'.

I think the good intentions are there and they're only trying to voice their opinions.

I think most of us conservatives wholeheartedly agree with what they're saying, only we're trying to be more tactful, and less hurtful BECAUSE we're using our names and we care about you. It's easier to be more harsh, to show one's true emotions and feelings, if you're anonymous. (Just saying.)

Anonymous said...

I wanted to add, in all fairness, I do believe the comments were a little 'harshly' written.

Anonymous said...

Oh brother! Just had to check out the 39 comments. Figured it had to be good.

Peggy

Anonymous said...

Wow, Leanne! You got more than you bargained for here. I am very excited about Obama being elected. We were finally brave enough to elect someone other than a white man! A good man, in my opinion.

I want to add my thoughts, as a democrat AND Christian. I should know better. :) I would be curious how many Christians would spend a quantity of time at pregnancy support group homes, if abortion were made illegal? Loving those women and sharing Jesus with them? I'd bet not many. We are so good at saying "God said this, now do it our way, but I'm not getting my hands dirty with you sinners!" It breaks my heart how judgmental we can be, instead of loving others (regardless of their choices). How is every woman going to choose life if we haven't shared Christ with them? How do they know any better? Instead of making it illegal, minister to women who need faith. Only then can they make an informed decision!

Also, are we not called to care for our Earth? God gave us that gift, as well. Drilling up our country for a few years worth of oil sure isn't being good stewards of our planet, nor is continuing to consume oil like we do.

Let's just say that neither party is perfect. I look forward to seeing what Obama can do with the disaster he inherited. :)

Love ya, Leanne! Krista

Leanne said...

Oh, good, Peg! Cause you love a good round of fisticuffs! LOL

Leanne said...

Oh, Krista. Thank you. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your wisdom and for making valid points that I was unable to. You are such an amazing person and I am so grateful for your post.

Elizabeth Halt said...

wow - this generated quite the discussion. I'm sorry I missed it. :)

To JJ's comment on my disappointment on the boo'ing from the McCain supporters at his mention of Sen. Obama. She has a good point. I suppose I could equate it to a hockey match and, in that sense, I can understand it. However, not being someone who would boo an opposing team, I was disappointed - just as I would be in fans who would do the same. That's all.

I find anon's comment interesting - mostly because I am usually very inarticulate in explaining the inconsistency I see in the position of the Rep. party on this issue. I wish there were no abortions. However, if that were *the* issue that I hung my voting hat on, as it were, I would not vote for a candidate who wanted to make abortions illegal yet was against everything that is required to support that decision. We need services that can minister to people who are newly pregnant and scared and help them through this. We need equality in education so that everyone feels they have options. We need comprehensive s. education to help prevent early pregnancies. We need to provide a social safety net for people so that they don't feel like abortion is their only option. If you look at poverty and welfare stats, you will see single mothers and children in high numbers. Single mothers have the hardest time breaking out of the cycle of poverty. I could go on, but will refrain. I could not in good conscience support one without supporting the other because if I want to prohibit abortions, I'd better be willing to stand behind my convictions and support the eventual children and families.

By the way, I do think you can show your true emotions and feelings without being harsh. It's just that most of us are not very good at it.

Anonymous said...

Hey Leanne! You really got more that you bargained for on this one and it's the first time that I have really read your blog. Dear sister, you must try to realize that stabbing Obama is NOT stabbing you. But you are who you are, and I know you can't help it. You are surrounded by republicans who are as passionate about their party as you are about yours. I agree that the wordage on a few posts are quite harsh but shake it off. You have to. Anytime you discuss politics, this is what you're going to get. It's the harsh reality. But I love you. Hang in there. Time will take care of things.

Shari (surprise!)

also, the instant reactions of people will wear off and hopefully we can all realize that we are Americans (lucky us!) and we are to trust that God will continue to bless America.

Anonymous said...

I personally feel that politics and religion should be seperate.. they cant be, but wish they could be.. wish that issues like Abortion wasnt something this country had to face, or whether or not my brother goes to war, again .. As for judging ppl its the American way! Seriously it seems to be our national passtime!

Amy L said...

Wow Leanne~
I had to stop by and see the discussion on here. Peg mentioned it at BC this evening..

I am not a worrier by nature, and definitely not about things that I have no control over, that seems futile, but there are things about this president-elect that scare me. I just hope that he proves my 'fears' as unfounded (I am with Jen on this - it is human nature)
~Amy

BTW: anonymous comments are cowardly, inappropriate, and ridiculuous.

Elizabeth Halt said...

on a totally lighthearted note, I remembered that I called it a "hockey match". Now if that isn't an indication that I haven't been to a hockey game in years, I don't know what is. LOL

Leanne said...

Lib - I'll match you in hockey anyday.

Anonymous said...

Hi Leo,

Who'd you vote for anyway? You probably will never see me again on here-especially engaging in political talk. I think we both know where we each other sits (I'm a business guy/you're nice). I can say that I am cautiously optimistic that the changes coming will be good and will not take the spirit of successful business out of this country. The media has lead us all to believe that we're all going to die tomorrow. Come on, we have problems, but things are not a total disaster...yet. It is interesting how negative people have become through this campaign and forgot how great this country is. I truly can appreciate your passion for what you believe in. Anyway, I just had to chime in here because your "anonymous" friend reminded me of how "lippy" we got to be when we were hiding behind Vinny Corbin-man, I should have gotten my butt kicked a time or two. While I agree it is cowardly, just remember that you do have a PUBLIC blog on the world wide web. Keep smilin'.

Love ya, Tim

Anonymous said...
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Anonymous said...

Being this is my first time writing on a blog I want to be sure that I get this right. First and foremost I love you Leanne. I also want to point out that obviously Leanne has done her research and I applaud her for that and actually I would appreciate it if Leanne you would point me to some of your information about OUR president elect.

This is direct to the general public: I (like many people) am guilty of not doing my research as well as I should have. I find elections difficult in the sense that we "have to judge a book by its cover", something we are often taught not to do. We in a way have to because there is no way that we could all personally get to know the candidates, and I find that difficult. I am one that has to talk to the person and see if there are any hidden agendas or personality flaws, yet in elections we are not given that opportunity to personally get to know them and all the more reason why we need to do our research and not go off of hearsay from our neighbors, sisters, friends, brothers, dog. Seriously do as Leanne has done and get out there and find credible resourses.

And seriously people if you do not agree with something OUR president elect stands for well get out there and do something about it!!! (Go Krista!!) We do not have control at this point who is OUR president elect but you can make a difference in peoples lives whether you agree with him or not. . . I am totally with Krista on this. Stop your sensless complaining and whining and go out and make changes where you see fit.

I will end this as I started it I love you Leanne and am very proud of you for standing your ground, you are a wonderful person!!!
I am serious about any reference material on Obama, I feel I do need to find out more about him.

Stephanie Kantola :)

Anonymous said...

Jeepers, sis! Checking in again this a.m. and 52 posts!!!!!! Through your blog I feel like saying "HI" to so many! So the good with the bad in this blogging world, I guess! I am with Steph on the getting out there and trying to get the facts. Hard to do among the rumors and lies but I guess that's a better place to put my energy! Love you, Amy

Anonymous said...

Wow, Leanne! Look at you go with your blog and all these comments! Even inflammatory comments!! You know your blog's in the big time when that happens. :)

I just have to say that all during this campaign, I kept getting anti-Obama emails that were inaccurate. I always check my facts, but my hubby and his sister (and lots of other people, I'm sure) do not. I never got one anti-McCain email. They HAD to be out there, right? To me it just felt like such a deliberate smear campaign.

Many of the emails I got claimed that Obama is a Muslim. He isn't. But let's just step back and think about that. So what if he is? "Muslim" does not equal terrorist or extremist. Our country was built on the separation of church and state.

And I too think it's cowardly to post infammatory comments without revealing who you are. It diminishes your argument.

-Joanna

Cyndi said...

Good morning! :) I just heard from Steph this morning about this humongous thread. Wow. I will try to keep this short. I respect Leanne with UTMOST regard. She is one of the most loving, kind, wise Christian women I know. It is COMPLETELY unfair to attack her faith. She also has researched President Elect Obama more than anyone I know. I did not vote for him, for several reasons. My beliefs and convictions lie more with the Republican party than the Democratic. (taxes, economy, health care, abortion, etc)

I applaud you, Krista, with your very wise post!!! I love it! You are 100% correct: people need to get out there and introduce women to Christ BEFORE such horrendous things as abortion are an option. And as you and Elizabeth stated, women need support, education, options. I will state here, that I don't EVER think abortion is the right option. Ever. That is my personal belief. Nor do I think that such a powerful, ethical action should be tax-payer funded. I just think that so very many people feel SO strongly about this particular issue and it disheartens them to think their money is paying for abortions. Along these same lines, as Krista said... if we're so anti-abortion, we must be willing to step in and help when the need is there (if the mothers do not abort... who will take these babes in and love them?) If it is true that Obama voted against supporting a baby that has survived a botched abortion... well... in my mind that is atrocious. Let the babe lie there and die? Murder it outside the womb? I pray God has mercy on the souls of those who can do this and those who choose to abort. Again... bring Christ to them before this point.

I have HOPE and am very cautiously optimistic that Obama and his cabinet will prove themselves to be an incredible choice. I pray the "Change" he talks about is for the best! I am excited to see things in this country turn around from where they currently sit. Remember, many people are VERY resistant to change... let's respect that and their feelings because they are very real to those experiencing them. Hopefully we will all be reassured by good things that come from this new president elect.

Obama says he's a Christian. I hope he IS a Christian - I am and know it's the greatest blessing that I've ever experienced - I wish it for all people! God knows all of our hearts. We are mere people, prone to judge. Let's not... God makes the final decisions, friends.

Leanne, I LOVE YOU! I admire your courage, wisdom, faith, friendship, dedication as a wife/mother/sister/daugther. In short... you are one of the most amazing women I know!!! I'm voting for you in 2012!

God Bless you all and may he continue to bless this greatest country on His green earth! Let's be proud to be Americans! Now, go make it a great day!

Cyndi

Cyndi said...

ummm....sorry bout that. Got a *little* long-winded there. :)

Julie said...

Hey Leanne! Your post brought such interesting (and at times heated) discussion! Bravo for putting your thoughts out there.
And I love the passion from everyone! Although it always helps to put a face to the name... when there is one anyway. ;)

In my opinion, we need all views to make this world work. The die-hard dems balance out the Rush's and the rest of us fall somewhere in between. The United States has enjoyed an abundance of freedoms for over 200 years. Why would that change now? The beauty of government is that there are plenty of checks and balances in place and officials that represent both parties- they're the ones who make the laws! Obama's goal in office is not going to be to piss off as many Republicans as possible, he's going to do his darndest to try and make everyone happy. What a crappy job he has.

I am so impressed with the graciousness and strength that both candidates have shown. It really was a historic election. And there was a WOMAN vice-presidential candidate even, wahoo, ladies!!!!!!!!!!!! :)

~Julie

P.S. On a side note, the country did not go to hell in a handbasket the last time a democrat was president.

Leanne said...

I need to address this:

Anon said: "In his own state of Illinois he passed a law that would allow the doctor NOT to revive an aborted baby if it was still alive after it was aborted."

Crap.

According to factcheck.org: He opposed Illinois legislation in 2001, 2002 and 2003 that would have defined any aborted fetus that showed signs of life as a "born alive infant" entitled to legal protection, even if doctors believe it could not survive.

Obama opposed the 2001 and 2002 "born alive" bills as backdoor attacks on a woman's legal right to abortion, but he says he would have been "fully in support" of a similar federal bill that President Bush had signed in 2002, because it contained protections for Roe v. Wade.

Additionally, and very importantly, Illinois law already provided that physicians must protect the life of a fetus when there is "a reasonable likelihood of sustained survival of the fetus outside the womb, with or without artificial support." It's ALREADY A LAW.

Amy said...

Hi Leanne. I'm Elizabeth's sister and I found my way to your blog and this discussion. I, too, was thrilled about the election. I'm thrilled about the hope for the future that Obama brings.
I used to be a conservative Republican. Now, I chuckle about that because I'm one of the most liberal people I know. :) Kudos to you for putting up with anonymous commenters.

Leanne said...

Amy - welcome! I hope you find other subjects to contribute to in the coming days! (AND YAY! This makes it 60 posts!)