A Shining New Moment

Posted by Coral Andrews Nov 5, 2008

I watched the crowds last night - 125,000 people in Chicago and there was Oprah - and Rev. Jesse Jackson - standing there with the masses and both of them were crying.

I have not witnessed an emotional crowd like this since the days of John F Kennedy and the elegant Jackie O and Their Camelot in The White House. At seven years old, the world seemed to me more hopeful place, and last night that hope was reborn.

Hundreds and thousands of people wept openly, many cheering knowing George W. Bush's eight year Axis of Evil was finally coming to an end.

But it won't be easy for Barack Obama.

I betcha he knows that.

Bush has left America in a right bloody mess! Economic hell, two wars and an image around the world that will take some time to heal. But Barack Obama is a man of the people, by the people and for the people.

I find it fascinating that Canada was more interested in the American election than their own, and I believe Obama's ripple effect will be a good one, not just for Canada, but for the world.

And Lest We forget, people fought and died for our freedom.

Actor R.H. Thompson and lighting designer Martin Conroy are helping to preserve that memory in a most unusual way.

My Grandfather was one of The Royal Engineers.

He saw the English lose at Vimy Ridge and he saw The Canadians triumph at Vimy Ridge.

Thompson and Conroy’s brainchild is a profound way to remember our Vets.

I cannot think of a better ode to our Veterans.

It's a beautiful way to reflect on the past, while we all consider the shining new moment and exciting promise of tomorrow.