Change Is A Coming

On Nov 2nd, 2008 I cast my vote for Barack Obama; unlike previous elections just like every other American my eyes and ears were glued to CNN or MSNBC. When it became official I wondered out loud why were all these people crying. I was overjoyed yes, because I thought an American Negro (yes I am being politically in-correct); becoming the President of the United States a thing of fiction. 

The movie the Fifth Element had a Black president, I believe Morgan Freeman also played the roll of a Black president in a sci-fi flick.  So forgive my scepticism when I saw those tears, but a funny thing happened to me on the way to the final coverage on election day.

I too, began to cry, it swept through me in waves.  I still cannot put that moment in words, it felt like a burden was lifted from me. As Barack said 'Hope for Change', a mantra I hope to make my own from this day forward. 

You see I was not born in the U.S. I am a naturalized citizen, I came here at the age of seven.  At the time there were only 2 black families on my street, and only a handful of Black children at my parochial school.  Like Barracks mother my mother placed us in schools she really couldn't afford on her salary as a single parent.  She worked in the same hospital kitchen until November 2007 when she retired as a dietary aid.  A fancy name for someone who serves patients their meals. 

I endured the abuse of the White children saying things like 'You just came of the banana boat'.  In my child's mind I was confused because I had came over on Pan Am airlines.  I was kicked in my private parts also, but I never told my mother.  Yes I got my education on racism in the hallowed halls of St. Peter's Catholic school. 

So though I wasn't born here I understand the indignities that many have suffered, so it is with a lighter heart and a hope to a brighter future that I thank America for seeing no color when it came to what is best for the nation.  I probably will cry again or pinch myself or my good friend who will be watching with me.  All in all change is a coming and I am ready to embrace it.