progress

Inspirational. I’m not prone to optimism. In fact, I’m very much opposed to it on a fundamental level. Still, I underestimated the power of a moment like this. The history of it is suffocating.

He stands, behind the podium in front of more than one hundred thousand people, with confidence and humility. There are no snickers, no air of predestined grandeur, just an air of satisfaction, filled with promise.

The crowd in front of him cheers incessantly, loudly and enthusiastically. During his speech, they are respectful and elated. So many there to witness history firsthand.

Earlier, his opponent’s concession was thoughtful and congratulatory. The crowd gathered to listen to Opponent speak was much smaller. They jeer when Opponent mentions his name, booing and scoffing, and how he will support him.

The two crowds, extrapolated to an entire population, show two very different Americas divided and conflicting. They show the passion for change, the overwhelming disappointment in the nation’s direction and the two very different conceptual ideas of how to bring about that change. They reflect the many flaws, a cultural snapshot of many failings.

For many this is a move forward. A giant leap that will fail to meet expectations. For many others this is a move in the wrong direction, a step backward, and a sign we won’t make necessary changes. With all the promises, lies and history of this election, we will look back and only see a mild deviation on an almost-straight line toward more disappointment.

My lack of optimism insulates me from the impact of this moment, as impressive as it is, but I can admit we have made a small step in the direction of true progress.