To My Son

Caleb,

On this historic day, I cannot help but smile when I think of the amazing journey that has brought us to this day.  For myself, the past few years have been darkened by a deep chasim of dispair about where we were headed.  And I hoped that something, or someone would come along to once again wake up our better angels, and call us all to a brighter day.

That has happened.  Today IS a new day.  Forever and ever you, your children, and your grandchildren will never question your ability to do anything based on the color of your skin, or the blood that binds you to your ansestors.  But more importantly, the content of character in our choice in a leader is the real story that moves me.  

President Obama, first, is an inquisitive man.  He reads and listens to all sides.  He doesn't take the vain pride of power over the weak.  That allows him to see from all sides, and not come to just the politically prudant decision.  He will hear all the voices of Amercia.

Second, he is a risk taker.  He was crazy to think he could gain the confidence in the good people of this country in less than two years to vote for him and the ideals he stands for.  But that risk he took is all of our reward.  Taking risks with the goal to help others are the most noble crusades.

Finally, he is a lover.  When he looks at his wife or daughters, it warms my heart because I can see the love, respect, and friendship they share.  It reminds me of the way I get to look at you and your mother every day.  To feel your smiles is to be as close to God as anyone deserves on this earth.  It is a source of unending power, and I know he has created a family unit that will continuiously recharge him through his darkest days.

So my pledge to you is I will work every day of my life to be these things to you.  I will continue to learn, and set an example for you about the importance of knowledge and education.  I will take risks to provide a stronger foundation and opportunity for others so that you may learn to do the same.  And I will continue to love you and your mother with an open heart.

I love you my son.  Please know that every day.  I look foward with hope to our new world we enter together.

Dad