My one and only beloved child. She married into a true wingnut "dittohead" Texas family some years ago. We've agreed that to preserve our relationship we never discussed politics in her home but we've kept close in all other respects. (Yes, I did make the mistake of disagreeing with her husband once at HIS dinner table and quickly learned a harsh lesson.)
She came alone to visit and spend the night with me earlier last week and she could not miss the numerous Obama signs and the thank you cards for my several donations at front door. We walked out to her vehicle to bring in various items and in the dusty back window was scribbled "No BO 4 president". I laughed and rubbed my fingers through the dust to wipe out the message, telling her "Ha ha ha -- no such advertising while in MY driveway!" She just smiled and we changed the subject.
We talked of many varied things through the hours of the evening and the ominous situation of economy was heavy on her mind. My husband and I did our best to allay her fears that her still untouchable trust fund set up by her grandfather is probably safe and well guarded -- he was a very wise man. We discussed the trust holding institution, FDIC levels, and how she could and would financially adapt if that promised inheritance doesn't survive this current crisis before she has control over it next year.
She finally admitted that she has decided that she just cannot vote in the upcoming presidential election. Her husband has made her scared of Obama but she's afraid that McCain is worse.
I cannot put pressure on her to go against her husband but I do take heart in the fact that at least one more vote in Texas will not be AGAINST Obama. Every tiny change in the odds in Texas is worth a small celebration. I WILL vote and the others I have successfully convinced WILL also vote for Obama.
Many people in other blood red states like Texas might feel exactly as she does. They just might avoid having to make that choice in what they are afraid just might be the lesser of two evils.
Today, 20 October 2008, early voting started in Texas. I was in line by 10:30 am and the votes I made that can be recognized outside of my district were Barack Obama/Joe Biden for the presidential ticket, Rick Noreiga for US Senate and Lloyd Doggett for US Representative. (No funny business was observed at or close to my early voting location.) This afternoon I can afford to make a few final donations to several candidates during this election cycle. My husband will vote when he gets home from work or in the next couple days.
The sky is bright blue and sunny, the temperature is perfect and all will come out right in the end. Today I must be optimistic.