My friend Pat lives in Texas. He’s an MD and also got his MBA with me at Georgetown. He’s a high income white male, in his late 40s-early 50s – a classic McCain voter. He sent me this message early this am. I’d like to share it with you and share my response:

Subj: Proud to Be An American

Hi Cheryl !

Congratulations on a monumental victory last night for Senator Obama.  I have to tell you, that I was thinking of you– yes, you– as I watched his speech.  I am not sure why, but I was !!  I thought Senator McCain gave a magnanimous concession speech, and I thought Senator Obama gave a great and uplifting acceptance speech.  His election is historic, and I felt very proud to be an American as I watched his speech.  I can only imagine what you must have been feeling too.

I just wanted to reach out and say that to you.

Kind regards,
Pat

PS:  Just so you don’t think I’ve gone crazy, I haven’t changed my political stripes and I wont be supporting liberal policies.  So when our paths cross, there will be plenty of fuel for debates.  But for today– heartfelt congrats!!

Subj: Re: Proud to Be An American

AWWWW Pat!!! That is the best email I’m probably going to get today.

I’ve actually worked really hard for today personally. You know, my great-grandfather was a slave. It’s amazing to think how far we’ve come as a nation so quickly. I think it’s a testament to the dynamism and fairness endemic to the American spirit. I too thought John McCain’s speech was incredibly kind, generous and needed. He probably saved a few lives through conceding graciously and quickly. It would have been a shame if last night had been marred by violence on either side. I was in total shock last night – it was like I’d been hit with a 2-by-4. Today, I’m alternating btwn smiling and crying or both at the same time.

I really think that Obama is serious about wanting to be everybody’s president — not just the people who voted for him. This is a great day for Americans and this country will never be the same again in a good way. This is a quantum leap for all Americans and African-Americans are going to have to re-define themselves in the wake of it.

THANK YOU, Pat for your email. It means a lot to me. I am giving you a big virtual hug right now.

Hugs, Cheryl

P.S. Off to book my ticket for inauguration day!!!