A couple days ago, I read an editorial in a local newspaper about the pasts of those who run for president. Bill Clinton's acknowledgement of smoking weed, but not inhaling. I've always thought that funny because you have to inhale in order to say you've smoked; but whatever; it's his story and he's sticking to it. Gee-Dubya likened his alcohol and cocaine use to his being young and reckless. Barack Obama admitted he used drugs when he was younger in a book. The author blabbed on and on about the acts of what these man did in their younger years and asked whether we'd want a man or a mouse in office (loosely translated). Personally, I don't give a flying fig if any of these men smoked weed, sniffed coke, or had homosexual sex in their younger years. What I care about is if they can do the job they've been sworn to (well, a certain someone named has proven himself ineffective). Everyone has done something in their past that they'd rather not discuss, but since they know that everything they've once done will be thrown in their face; I guess it's best to put it out there before hand.
The past lives of people should not dictate what they can do now. As previously stated, we've all done something shady, illegal, or inappropriate at some point. For some, we've not gotten caught or felt the need for disclosure. In addition, we're less likely to be raked over the coals for it either. I say again, I really don't care (unless it's something of major detriment) what they did in the past as they're all human and entitled to make mistakes. I want the person running for a position who might get my vote to be honorable in his character, live by his word, effect positive change, and strive to be the best of what his position requires.
From everything I've read and heard about Barack Obama, he's someone worthy of runinng for the presidency. I believe he'd be good for a country that is currently under seige, suffering from low morale, and in dire need of an effective and positive change. Lord knows he'd have his work cut out for him considering the muck he'd have to clean up, but given the chance and with a supportive cabinet, I believe he could do it. This isn't about his race; it's about being what the country needs. His former drug use means nothing and if that's the best they can dig up about him to sway a person's opinion of him, then they're proving nothing; especially when he's already declared it.
I'll continue to do my research, listen to his proposals, and not settle for the lesser of two evils. I want to cast my vote knowing it will actually mean something to the person on the ballot; though he won't know me personally. I want to support a man of prinicples, strong beliefs, with a love for his constituents, and overall; someone who says what he means and means what he says. I want societal restitution for the chaos currently in effect and I hope that he's the man that can make one hell of an improvement. I know it shouldn't fall solely on his head, but his influence could sway the change and foster favorable results. Maybe the United of the currently Untied States will once again mean something and morale will reign again.
I understand that running for the presidency is no easy chore, but I wish him well and hope that he has his Nike's on cause the race to the White House isn't going to be easy.