On elections

Well, the election is over - now the hard work begins. I'm glad that Obama won, because I think our country needs what he brings to the office. What's that? Here's what I like about his approach:

• A personality that does not take offense easily
• Determination to work collaboratively with others, rather than going it alone
• Compassion for those who are disadvantaged, coupled with respect for achievement
• Willingness to work with and respect those who hold opinions different from his own
• An orientation toward people, rather than institutions
• The capability to organize well - shown brilliantly by the campaign
• The ability to make others excited about his ideas - LEADERSHIP!!

That said, I was very impressed with McCain's concession speech. It exuded class and good sense. It's too bad that so much of his campaign showed a far less attractive part of his personality. Overall, the man is a fine person and a great American - but would not have made a good president, based on some of the choices he permitted his campaign staff to make.

Incidentally, I've been amused by the pointed Republican reminders that good government includes both parties, and that cooperation is better than partisanship. Where was that attitude when the Bush Administration decided that only Republican ideas and programs were worthy of consideration? Now that the shoe is on the other foot, it's proving to be a bit uncomfortable...

Here in Utah, the Democrats have made some gains, especially in Salt Lake County. Outside of Salt Lake County, Utah is still basically a one-party state. However, a couple of the most divisive legislators lost their positions, so we have real hopes that someday legislation will be debated openly in the legislature instead of being decided behind the closed doors of the Republican Caucus. By the way, I happily voted a mixed ticket - I have never voted a straight party ticket and probably never will, since good people can be found in both parties.

Finally, I'm proud to be an American. The country has shown once more that massive changes in the balance of power can be accomplished without resorting to violence, and that the ballot really is more powerful than the bullet. Sure, we have our problems, but the country is fundamentally in good hands because the people - all the people, of whatever party - have agreed to work together for the good of all of us.