I am a chicken little by nature. I didn't watch the championship game of my beloved KU Jayhawks because I knew I'd jinx them. And I still kind of think they won primarily because I stayed in my bedroom, listening only to the cheers of my husband and daughter downstairs as I watched HGTV. I did my part and steered clear. I'm the chicken little that simply refuses to take anything for granted. I've been scared most of this election and have embraced that fear because it's kept me motivated and active. But my fear has also been the source of some down days too, truth be told. I've lamented when it seemed Obama wasn't "hitting back." I've yelled on this board and others about it, offering my sage advice on exactly what Obama "needs to do." I would NEVER be caught dead saying out loud that Obama has this thing sewn up and even on my most hopeful days, I knock on wood!
But my new thing is to start "visioning" the win. I've seen so many signs of hope that it just makes sense to take a more positive view of things. I picture myself sitting with my family, watching the returns, seeing victory declared, and then firing up the music as loudly as the stereo can play it! I'm wondering exactly which party songs will work best??? Of course, Earth, Wind & Fire's "Let's Groove," would work. Or Kool & the Gang's "Celebration." But I'm sure you've got others.
For me, the perfect victory party also includes great food. Since I'm in the Kansas City area, maybe a big slab of ribs, some chicken, and other bar-be-que sides would work? Or, if it's a really cold night, maybe a nice big pot of chilli and cornbread, with shredded cheese and sour cream to top it off would be fantastic. And I make a pretty decent apple crisp, and my family likes it very warm with some ice cream on the side. The bottom line is to make enough of whatever it is, because I want a bunch of people over!
And then we'll see John McCain take the stage with Cindy in her expensive suit and his family all around. Sarah Palin and her brood will also be there, and they're letting us know they're conceding, and for once, we aren't disgusted by them. In defeat, they simply do not matter anymore. We exhale because we've dodged a bullet. We relish the moment they wave and say goodbye... It's time for change...
Finally, Barack and Michelle Obama--looking stunning as always--appear. Joe and Jill are there, kids, grandkids, everyone. The crowd is in tears. I am in tears. My family is in tears. We listen to his victory speech and say nothing. It's mesmerizing. It is HISTORY and I get to see it. My children get to see it. We are black and we FINALLY get to see this. And then the music starts up. We're dancing literally in the streets! And it goes on and on and on. I ditch my job the next day so I can watch TV. I call everyone I know and ask what their experience was like. It's just another day of jubilee. The future looks bright and I sleep great....
Okay, okay. I won't keep going, but you get the point. It's time to see this happening. We've still got work to do. I've still got a few more bucks to donate (I'm seeing Michelle tomorrow night in KC!), and this fight is not over, but take a minute, would you, to share EXACTLY how you plan to celebrate? Live dangerously and say it out loud! What music will you have on hand (provide clips), and what's on your menu?
For inspiration, here's EWF's "Let's Groove."
Let's Groove!
And Kool & the Gang's "Celebration."
Celebration