DNC and Messages

The Democratic National Convention has begun.

I'm full of shame and goo, as I only caught Michelle Obama's speech, despite hearing that the others were also powerful.

It's difficult to know where to begin with this particular topic, because I must confess that I wasn't super interested in her speech- not because I didn't agree with it entirely- but because on some level, I expect human beings to communicate all the time the way she did last night. Honestly, passionately, personally, and with empathy and clear regard for others.

I'm struck by the public response to her speech, which is a response of awe, surprise, and inspiration. The vast majority of short opinions I've heard about the speech note that it gives hope and pride for America. In the 21st century, it's a miracle to hear someone speak so passionately about all citizens receiving a fair shake. It's a miracle to hear about how love is love no matter which consenting adults are involved. It's a miracle to hear about such a large movement towards healthier foods, inclusive communities, and opportunity for each person.

This is certainly the pessimist in me, but why are these miracles? Since when was a winning political platform simply to "not be an asshole"? We live in a nation comprised largely of self-described Christians- in a nation of immigrants- land of the brave, home of the free-- And yet, someone being a stand-up human who cares about others is what's winning the day?
When did we go so far backwards that this could become a "someday" pipe dream?

Don't get me wrong- Kudos to Mrs. Obama for being her own person and, indeed, being a truly phenomenal person at that. But why did it take this long to get someone with a heart not made of stone in a position like this? And why does roughly half of the country look DOWN on her for it?!

I'll walk away from this post knowing that it's an unpopular and pessimistic approach to the issue, but I do think it should be recognized that should be the standard for human behavior, not the pinnacle. And if we treat it as the pinnacle, we rationalize behavior that falls below it. We justify acts and attitudes that, in this day and age, are unacceptable.

Can't we all just... grow up and learn to get along? That'd be super.

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Waddles