I have been very busy working on the campaign. Not only is this campaign different than all the others I have worked in that this is a movement rather than a campaign. But more importantly, my life has changed drastically since the last campaign where I volunteered. I am a mother to three through foster care. I own my own law firm. Things are drastically different.
But I am working harder than ever before. I am enthused and buoyed every time I step into a campaign office.
Thursday was a call from the Regional Field Director telling me I was going to have the opportunity to meet Barack Obama on Saturday. Apparently a small group of volunteers would have the chance to meet Obama before the Kansas City rally. My husband was invited as well. It was a very exciting prospect.
I ran through several versions of what to say. I was under the impression we might have a chance to say something to him. One version went like this.
Senator, This is a picture of my three foster children. They have lived with us for eighteen months. We are all still uncertain of their future. DFS does not want to make a decision about their future. The Judge does not want to make a decision and meanwhile the uncertainity of their future remains steadfast. I know you are walking into a pit full of problems but the glow of a White House light on foster care might make a difference. And I am willing to help in the same energy and manner in which I have helped on your campaign.
Another version.
Please keep us included. We will work hard to turn around America. As hard as each of us is working to get you elected. But keep us involved.
I have never been a Presidential campaigner. I generally devote my energies to State and local races. That is traditionally where my money and time goes. But I jumped on the O-Train after he won Iowa and haven't looked back. I have traveled to do GOTV and registered hundreds of voters since the primaries ended. I am coordinating the voter protection effort here in Kansas City along with the enormous help of the Obama staff. I am at HQ every day doing whatever needs to get done. I have deigned myself "The Campaign Fairy Godmother."
But alas, there was no time for words. Through the huge glass window, Obama approached in a huddle with Axelrod and Gibbs. Obama was quickly led into our room. We stood in a line to give him a hug or a handshake. He was so gracious, stopping to ask me if I had left a pair of glasses in the chair behind me. I gave him a big hug. He shook my husband's hand.
We did a group shot.
Then he told us that we were the engine driving the machine and not to let up until we cross the finish line.
Voila - he was gone.
We were lead to the VIP section which was packed to the gills and Obama made his entrance about two minutes later.
It was great. It was a privilege. I am going to spend the next two weeks living up to that meeting.
Here are the pics. I am in the "Yes We Can, Kansas City" shirt (designed by my husband!). Third Pic and the obscured face standing next to Barack in the group shot.
Let's go do this thing.