Vote for the Man, not party or skin

My grandfather was a blue collar hard working American man.  He was a Democrat.  Therefore, when my father reached the ripe age of 18, he quickly registered to vote as part of the Democrat party.  What is weird about this story is that I had no idea that my father was a Democrat until 2004 when George Bush was running against John Kerry.

Weird because these days it is hard to have any discussion with someone before things like “you must be a democrat” or “you are just one of those republicans” are said.  It seems that most are very quick to let you know what party they are adjoined to.  I can hardly stand to watch news today because partisanship is seeping out all over the place.  It is a sad day when you have to truly filter what “facts” you hear on the news.  Agendas have taken the place of integrity.

According to my mom, my father made a decision a long time ago to allow me to grow up to become my own man.  He told her to never allow themselves to push me to be a Democrat but to instead give me books that I could read about both parties, government history, policy, philosophy…and therefore make my own decision.  Wow, what a daddy.

Every day before an election, my dad would without fail pull me aside to his office.  We would talk a little about each person that was running for a particular office.  Somehow my dad would never give away his party affiliation to me.  I know what you are thinking…”Matt, did you not just ask him?!”  The answer is yes!!!  He would tell me it did not matter.

With that, he would look me eye to eye with his jaw locked.  Very calm but stern he would say “Son, whatever you do… VOTE FOR THE MAN.  NOT PARTY.  NOT SKIN.  PERIOD. ”

Today as President Barack Obama was sworn in as our 44th President, I thought about my dad’s words of wisdom.  I hope that today’s inauguration shows that voters have removed skin color out of their own filters of who to vote for.  I hope that it shows that racism can truly no longer hold anyone down.  That all can achieve their dreams.

As the country moves forward, I pray that all of us can heed to dad’s words.  Look at a man’s heart.  Look at his beliefs.  See how they compare to what you are looking for.  But do NOT look at the skin or if there is a R or D after their name.

I pray for our new President.  Though I did not vote for him because of our differences of policy, I respect that he is my President.  I am hopeful that he will truly become a Statesman for all America.  I pray for his protection.  I am excited to see history happening today.  To you, Mr. President, I say “Congratulations”.