Election night 2008 has drawn to a close. I know that for many of us, the results were not as we might have hoped. In trying to define what I think of this pivotal moment in American history, I've written a few reflections that I'd like to share with you.One of the greatest things about our country is that for the past 220 years, we have had peaceful exchange of power - something practically unprecedented in the history of civilization. I am proud to say without a doubt that we will have a peaceful exchange of power once more next Jan. 20, when Barack Obama becomes America's 44th president. For the brave men and women serving in our armed forces and for those of us preparing to join their ranks, we have committed ourselves to defend the Constitution of the United States and to support the Commander in Chief and all those appointed over us in their lawful orders. And so we will.For all of us as citizens, to draw from what I can only describe as one of the most honorable concession speeches in the history of politics: come Jan. 20, we will all continue to be, as we have always been, united as Americans. We will all continue, I hope, to believe in this great nation. America is bigger than any one man and than any one party. As we enter into what I believe will be a new chapter in American government, we must all hold fast to the great ideals on which this country was founded two centuries ago. I also know that for many of us, this election was not only about political ideologies or economic values. We cast our votes in large part based on our belief in the sacredness of every human life. We stand by this conviction and we must continue to fight for the right of each innocent person to enjoy the freedoms that our government exists to protect. We must also pray, harder than ever before that God may guide our country and all our leaders. Red or blue, the votes have been cast. America continues and so do we. God bless America.
Nicole BursonfreshmanLewis HallNov. 5
