By just raising one hand, he lifted a nation.

I guess I can finally be proud.

I have lived 40 years in this country with a sort of ambivalence toward patriotism. At first it was because Native Americans have gotten so shafted in history, and it hasn’t looked like that was going to change any time soon. Then I became aware of how other minorities are treated in this nation – African-Americans, Mexican-Americans, women, children, etc., etc., etc.

Then Bush came into power, and not because of any vote of mine.

Twice!

And in 8 short years he brought this nation from a functioning country with a decent standing in the world stage and a thriving economy to a nation that is falling apart. Its infrastructure is dying, foods are becoming tainted with diseases because of faulty checks in place, people are being chased out of homes and the ones who have homes are wondering when their turn will be up and our economy is going to hell in a hand basket.

But now we have Obama. His word is gold, his intentions are honorable and he has started his week with good solid decisions about domestic and international policy that is going to help restore our standing.

And he’s black.

Pride is forming.

For the first time in all of my 40 years, I am starting to be proud of being an American.