It was what I thought it would be: inspiring, hopeful, honest, and "real." I was not disappointed. I loved the overall message that we need to work together to get this country back to a place we can feel proud of. I know a lot of people feel that Obama is just a "media darling" who can give great speeches. Maybe. I think his gift is his ability to inspire people to action. I appreciate the theme of service that is such a huge part of Obama's message. The "we" is what is so special about him. He makes me want to be a part of the solution.
Which brings me to Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore's Presidential Pledge video. I know, I know, it shouldn't take celebrities to get me motivated to actually get off my tooshie and get involved... but this video has a lot of big and small ideas to get everyone started. ("I pledge only to flush after a deuce. Never after a single." Jason Bateman--LOVE him!) I'm hoping you'll take a few minutes and watch the video... I'm adopting several of the ideas for myself. I'd love to hear what you're doing!!!
In addition, I came across a great website that identifies service opportunities for your community. Visit USAservice.org and enter your contact information. Then enter your zip code to see a list of organizations and events in your area that could use your help. Many of the events and opportunities in Portland are single-day events. It might be a great way to spend your Saturday if you're wondering what to do with your afternoon.
By the way, how great was Reverend Joseph Lowery's speech (benediction)??? That voice!
"Lord, in the memory of all the saints who from their labors rest, and in the joy of a new beginning, we ask you to help us work for that day when black will not be asked to get in back, when brown can stick around ... when yellow will be mellow ... when the red man can get ahead, man; and when white will embrace what is right. That all those who do justice and love mercy say Amen."
Thank for your blog posting. I too was so inspired to be a part of the change. I am collecting clothes of all ages and sizes as a part of something I can do in our community. After talking to my school, our district has kids that are in desperate need of clothing (new or used). They have an entire "closet" for families in the Hillsboro School District that is open for those who need stuff.
ReplyDeleteI decided to go through mine and CJ's closet and collected a few bags of different stuff that I could give to Goodwill, but after hearing stories of families in our area that need them I decided to donate there instead. We have students whose parents have recently lost jobs, are living out of cars, or are homeless and cannot afford clothes for any of the kids (babies included!)
So, Miss Tammy if you and Greg go through your family's closet and would like to help the district that I student teach in, I would love it!
We ALL need to be the change we want to see. We cannot rely on a President to magically fix it all.
Also, other than cloth grocery bags, I also wash out the plastic produce bags- dry them, and take them to the store so I don't keep wasting more plastic! That one is pretty easy as well : )
I pledge to be the greatest teacher for my child and to lead by example. To teach more about giving back and blessing others, to live in the present and enjoy every little moment, and to strive to achieve all that I dream.
ReplyDeleteI also pledge to turn the other cheek to all the Obama bashers out there, as well as those that bash the Call For Service Pledge.