When I find myself reading, viewing, and listening to opposition to Barack Obama and his foreign and domestic plans, a few things consistently come to mind. First, as a member of a two man radio team that takes pride in its non partisan stance or shall I say ever shifting stance I try and listen and understand the points being made by those who have alternative opinions to those of the Obama team. Without having an understanding and open mindedness to all possibilities, there can be no honest discussions and true reasonable solutions. Secondly, I try to read between the lines of the opposition to insure that their complaints are not political motives of their own. Finally, as someone who sees the value in Obama , I get frustrated in not being able to explain his true value to naysayers who see the branding of Obama, and his "change" message as a media creation that is more fluff than substance.
What I would say about Barack Obama's value is this. In a world that exists in "real time" communication , that is having a cultural struggle between the East and West, that needs immediate help and long term guidance economically at home, there is no player in our political game better oratory wise, flexibility wise and empathy wise than Obama right now. His youth allowed him the vantage point of Muslim culture from the inside looking outwards. His ability to see the world from both directions has given the world, whether its justified or not, a better opinion of the United States. We are now a country that seeks to join, rather than bully the international community. His speaking skills allow his message to come across convincingly, eloquently, and intelligently which goes a long way in setting the tone for action, much like a coach who gets his players ready for the big game.. His temperament allows the administration in a 24 7 news cycle that extra breath before making important decisions that if done with irrational speed compound mistakes and difficult situations.
It's a shame that many people here at home allow partisan politics to get in their way of giving a young, energized and inspired guy in his first three months, a chance to develop into a leader that can take us into the 21st century gracefully and wisely. Give Obama time to utilize the strengths in his personality rather than knock him for these strengths, and we truly may end up in a better place. no guarantees of course but why are we so afraid that we wouldn't at least try?
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