Being the kid of a political junkie, Justin hasn’t experienced much political apathy.
In the 21 months since he asked me the question,“Dad, Who will you vote for?” he’s been involved in the political season that culminated last night with Barack Obama’s inspirational win.
Justin accompanied me to our local polling location, waited in line with me for about 30 minutes in the early morning chill, and held my sample ballot while he watched me participate in democracy.
While waiting in line, and in typical 12 year-old fashion, he asked, “How many McCain supporters do you think are here?”
I said there was no way to tell; that people don’t look Republican or Democratic. They’re all citizens interested in casting their vote for the candidate they hope would bring change to America.
Later in the evening he sat beside me watching election returns. He also sang a short song he’d composed about Barack Obama winning the election. That told me that 1) he’s been listening to the political conversation and 2) he’s more likely to be politically engaged in the ensuing years.
That makes me happy.
We sat and listened to both John McCain’s concession speech and President-elect Obama’s acceptance. I continually wiped tears from my cheeks, moved by the tremendous step forward this country had the courage to take yesterday.
He looked at me and said, “I really am witnessing history, aren’t I Dad?”
I hugged him and softly whispered, “Yes, son. You are.”
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