o-bam-a, o-bam-a

I mentioned last year that people here were very excited about the US elections and were thrilled that Barrack Obama won. I voted for him (for my card carrying Republican family members, I still love you and hope you love me!) but I really wouldn't call myself a Zealot about the man. There's no way I'd want to be President.

He (Obama) is now here, well not here here, but in the Middle East. That, in itself, is a right step. I think people are "listening"...at least I hope so.

Please go online and read the content of his speech (it's on Yahoo or google or dogpile or any search engine). I would imagine that it's being carried on television news.

From the Speech given by the US President at Cairo University, June 4, 2009--
He's speaking about the "negative" attitude toward Muslims...

Violent extremists have exploited these tensions in a small but potent minority of Muslims. The attacks of September 11th, 2001 and the continued efforts of these extremists to engage in violence against civilians has led some in my country to view Islam as inevitably hostile not only to America and Western countries, but also to human rights. This has bred more fear and mistrust.

So long as our relationship is defined by our differences, we will empower those who sow hatred rather than peace, and who promote conflict rather than the cooperation that can help all of our people achieve justice and prosperity. This cycle of suspicion and discord must end.

I have come here to seek a new beginning between the United States and Muslims around the world; one based upon mutual interest and mutual respect; and one based upon the truth that America and Islam are not exclusive, and need not be in competition. Instead, they overlap, and share common principles - principles of justice and progress; tolerance and the dignity of all human beings.

I do so recognizing that change cannot happen overnight. No single speech can eradicate years of mistrust, nor can I answer in the time that I have all the complex questions that brought us to this point. But I am convinced that in order to move forward, we must say openly the things we hold in our hearts, and that too often are said only behind closed doors. There must be a sustained effort to listen to each other; to learn from each other; to respect one another; and to seek common ground. As the Holy Quran tells us, Be conscious of God and speak always the truth. That is what I will try to do - to speak the truth as best I can, humbled by the task before us, and firm in my belief that the interests we share as human beings are far more powerful than the forces that drive us apart.


It brought tears to my eyes. Amen, Mr President, Amen
My prayers, and the prayers of the Muslims I know, are with you.