Back in Texas...
What Can I say? Chicago rocks! Now, I'm gonna share something that is gonna piss some of you guys off... But as a self respecting BluePoetSoul, I am compelled to explore with an open mind and deliver with an open heart, those credits in one part of the universe, to balance those debits in another part of the universe...(its what we do
Here Goes:
It is right, and appropriate for Obama to be our president of the United states. Until I saw for myself, the solar flare that resulted from his being in office, I could not understand the gravity and magnitude of importance in his role.
Now I see.
I met and talked with people, (who might have killed me 25 years ago) and came to discover on this trip, how staunchly they have become my brothers and sisters.
Never, in any American city, have I felt a more stress-free environment than I have in the Chicago proper. This, despite the tragic Illinois economy.
During my visit, I had to traverse through the famed 'south-side of Chicago', to get to a destination (a family grave-site).
As some of you may be aware, the south-side had a notorious reputation for being one of America's roughest Black ghettos.
As we drove through a significant portion of the area, what I saw was
inspiring. Old renovated classic structured red /brown brick homes, pristine lawns, clean streets. Many Children walking to school, Adult men patrolling the traffic at the intersections of the schools. People seemed happy, They were courteous, folks looked healthy and in every manner of humanity, they thrived well in the south-side Chicago community. WOW!
As we drove further, we did spot a few rugged fringe streets, and sure enough, a few rugged gangsta types. They appeared to be edged out. They don't seem too popular
Downtown, on a city bus, there was an instance where I merely looked like I was in preponderance of my location, when another passenger (a Hispanic) offered a most useful set of instructions...I didn't even have to ask. There was kindness in the air.
The bottom line...I felt a profound sense of pride emanate from the local citizens...everywhere...Black, White, Brown. Christian, Buddhist, Muslim.
It has me believing that it is the result of electing the first black man in America. And let me say, my friends... If this was all that Obama could ever invoke, it is by far, still more than the last 8 presidents have accomplished.
Do I think Obama is a good financial leader? No. Do I think he is a master of frugality? Yes. Indeed, despite the severity of the economy, the pride of Chicago stands extremely tall. This, from a segment of people who suffered abject poverty. They have risen above it, with flying colors. It is my new opinion now, that Obama NEEDED to be the prez. After what I have witnessed, I'm really good with that assertion, now.
You guys will forgive if I cease and discontinue Obama bashing now. Because to bash him, would be to spit on the flower of humanity he has invoked. (I simply cannot express enough, how glorious this social evolution has become. )
I have seen it for myself now...
I hope many of you can believe me...