I don't often have good dreams about political subjects. My politically-themed nightime hallucinations fall mostly into the 'nightmare' category.
But last night, I dreamed that Al Gore announced his 2008 presidential candidacy on the Daily Show.
As dreams often do after awakening, this one has lost much of its detail, but the general gist is that Gore had denied running for so long to guage the intensity and commitment of his supporters. The following portion is still crystal clear, though.
"Of course I always thought about running", he told Jon. "I just had to see how far my supporters were willing to go, how much of themselves were they willing to put into convincing me. I've been down that road before -- and won the majority of the popular vote, as you may recall -- only to have it snatched away by GOP chicanery. If was going to campaign again, I had to have supporters who would give it their all. After their tireless efforts this past year or more, I see now that I have that.
"To those who worked so long and hard to change my mind, you changed it long ago. I apologize for stringing you along like I did, but I hope you understand my reasons. Your unwavering faith and drive have shown me -- and the rest of America -- what a Gore campaign this time will be like: hard-nosed, hard-charging, never giving up, never backing down.
"Now lets all sit down, put our heads together and figure out how we're going to take this nation back. Let me hear your best ideas; I will listen. Let me hear your gravest concerns; I will address them. Let all of us together help to restore America to it's former place of honor and integrity as a leader in world affairs. Let us erase the stain of corruption and incompetence that has tainted the reputation of our beloved homeland.
"People, let's get out there and kick some ass!"
At which point the Daily Show audience erupted, rushing the stage, high-fiving Al and Jon, almost weeping in joy and relief.
What a dream. It was only my subconscious blue-skying, but damn I felt good when I woke up.
I'd truly love to feel that good for real some day. How about you?