Does the Audacity of Barack Obama Carry Lessons for Britain?
A man speaking more than 3000 miles away moved and uplifted me today as a Black woman and gave me hope for the future. He was eloquent, passionate, good looking and fervent in his desire to make history; to show what could be achieved with simple belief and faith in one's ability. His team expected 1000 people to turn up to hear him announce his candidacy for the presidency of the most powerful country in the world, but 15,000 actually made the journey to be part of history, fired by what was possible. I was one of the first to subscribe to Senator Barack Obama's online campaign a few weeks ago, though I am not an American. But I share one thing with Mr Obama, the belief that anything is possible if we just believe it, have faith in it and act upon it. I believe in the power of thoughts to get us where we want to go and Obama has obviously been exercising his thoughts, big time!
As a Black woman in the UK, there are a lot of things I admire about America, though I wouldn't live there, as I love Britain too much. But America certainly has that quality of personal encouragement and the fulfilment of dreams. Being successful might cost you an arm and a leg in financial terms, but there are lots of fellow dreamers who are only too willing to help you to achieve that dream, living vicariously through you to taste their own success too. America's vastness, immense opportunity and huge diversity inspire one to greatness and Barack Obama, a virtual unknown, is the living embodiment of what is possible when the time is right, the belief is high and the stars come together.
Terror and Crime Britain sadly lacks such dreams and success for Black people. We hear about British Blacks only in negative terms of terror and crime from a tiny minority. No one from minority communities is positively highlighted regularly in the media, as they do with the members of the White majority, because very few minorities are in the media to give it an alternative view and to widen its appeal. But the media merely reflects the rest of British society in its negative treatment of those who are different. If you wish to see the true visibility of minorities in Britain, just cast your eyes around the entourage of the British Royal Family and that of the Prime Minister. The only face you might see which is Black will belong to the odd bodyguard. There will be few Black people of substance in these illustrious circles. But we are in the 21st century and minorities have been here for years. Yet, leadership at these heights, among people who are supposed to lead our Commonwealth, is crucial to unite the nation and to give a strong message of inclusion. A nation divided against itself cannot thrive in any way, it merely implodes from the inside.
Britons talk a lot about our multicultural society, but Black talent stays hidden in its own community, a victim of fear, prejudice, lack of opportunity and sheer exclusion, clothed in invisibility and neglect, while deviance is trumpeted as the only Black and Asian achievement worth noting in the public arena. We are about 25 years behind America in the way we treat our diverse communities, still a very long way from a Black Prime Minister. Is change really possible among such entrenched institutional racism? Perhaps not in my lifetime.
After all, in 2007, the Local Government Association (LGA), based in London and avidly promoted by Mayor Livingston's office, has all 31 of its most senior officers being White, despite having 39% of minority staff working for it! The magnitude of this situation seems to have been lost on the Mayor's diversity team if we can have such a discriminatory situation in place, and posing as normal! This authority (which boasts itself as being "The UK's top government body") represents and advises every council in the UK, councils which serve a multicultural society. Yet not one of its minority workers has been deemed suitable for its highest positions to reflect this diversity. What message of competence is the LGA giving out to talented minorities, despite its office being based in our most diverse capital?
My pessimism is borne out by that incredible example of exclusion. But, like Senator Obama, I audaciously live in hope. My love for the UK and its potential does not permit me to accept otherwise. It would be too depressing.
Good luck, Senator. I have few doubts that when you reach the White House, you will also have changed an awful lot of perceptions about what is possible right across the world. And, who knows, even Britain, and its own minorities, might learn something of value from your courage and audacity. Thank you for sharing your vision in such a definitive way.
(First published on Ezine.com)
The Real Value of Barack Obama's Presidential Bid
The first time I heard of this man he was touring Kenya, his ancestral village, and everyone there was gushing about him, treating him like a king returning home. This was mid 2006. I had never heard of Barack Obama before, didn't realise he was an American senator, also didn't realise how few African-American senators there were, but was not at all surprised at the hero-worship back there.
Black people do not have too many wholesome heroes to inspire them. Many of the latter day heroes tend to come from the music field and what a dreadful example of drugs, drinks and rock and roll many of them are setting; not to mention the distasteful words in rap music which show little respect to women, and others, for that matter. Even when there is clear genius among us, we have a way of robbing it of its effect (Michael Jackson comes to mind?). I adore that man's music yet feel so disheartened at the way he has changed himself in such a sad way, detracting from the very talent we are trying to appreciate.
Starved of Black role models, many people despair of ever being reflected significantly while clinging to people like Oprah Winfrey and Oscar winners Denzel Washington and Halle Berry for some reflected glory. Minorities everywhere live vicariously through role models because of the absence of homegrown heroes, and Blacks in the UK are no different. In fact, when Colin Powell first became a general, one letter writer to the Voice newspaper noted drily that, "Had General Powell been in Britain he would have been Corporal Powell!"
No Inspiration for Black Teenagers I have never forgotten that because it struck a chord of relevance and recognition which, 20 years down the line, is still resonating loudly with the invisibility of minorities in public positions of power and responsibility. There just aren't any to inspire the teenagers coming up; to reinforce their presence and value. Many of those in place are 'yes' people, beholden to the political party which put them there, securing their positions while being afraid to rock the boat, without being able to make that real difference, while they are gradually swallowed up by both the Establishment and the 'system' and lose their voice.
You can tell a lot about the government of a country in how they seek to unite the people and be representative of them. If the people associating with Britain's government and monarchy are anything to go by, the is an all-White country! You will not see a Black person of substance or expertise around the them in Britain, unless it is a bodyguard! Yet the Queen is the head of a multicultural Commonwealth and loves to boast about that when she visits them. Obviously charity does not reach as far as our home! This is very disappointing to me because, with Britain's history, and the way it trumpets regularly about justice and fairness, one would have thought it would have led the field in recognising diversity and its own multicultural population in more visible and tangible ways. As a staunch Briton, who loves this country, I find that so sad.
That's why America has always had a special place for Black people everywhere because, through the relentless advance of our African-American brothers and sisters in all walks of public life, we too can live vicariously and pretend we have similar opportunities. We feel as though we share that success because it looks so easy, and we have so little. However, we have always acknowledged that the supreme position of president was always closed to everyone except White males. Not any more, it isn't. Thanks to one man who dared to dream, we can share that too in believing the sky is truly our limit. African-Americans may take Barack or granted, believing that they shouldn't just vote for someone because he' black. But white voters have alwas voted on racial and gender lines, which is why the country has never had a black or female president before.
Tremendous Self-Belief The real value of Barack Obama lies not just in the possibility of him creating history on an unimagined scale. It actually lies in what he represents to Black people everywhere; the fulfilment of the impossible. As Nelson Mandela once echoed in a speech, by his fearless action and tremendous self-belief, Barack gives permission to all of us to dream too in a way which wouldn't be understood by a White person in any number of years, because they take success and status for granted. Our successful African-American brothers and sisters allow us to dream, to imagine, to luxuriate in what is possible. White role models are limitless, proliferating every minute of every day to become commonplace and taken for granted. A wannabe white millionaire has lots of role models to encourage him/her. When a Black person aspires to that, we wonder from what basis. How are they going to do it with the lack of role models to inspire and motivate them? It then becomes an uphill struggle as they contend with self-doubt, the scepticism of their peers and the discriminatory practices around them.
However, regardless of whether he gets into the White House or not, the presence of Barack Obama in the American presidential race has already turned a new chapter for every African-American male by showing them their own worth and power. Barack has taken the baton from Colin Powell and is proving to them that the humblest person, without wealth or whiteness, can attain the highest office. And it must begin to do something positive to their thinking and aspirations. I do hope so.
The heartfelt words from this donor, a Navy veteran, which accompanied the $5 he sent to Barrack, says it all. It was his first ever donation and his daughter inspired him to send the money: He said, "Being an African American male, to have that positive role model in Senator Obama, it's given me so much hope. To be able to look at my daughter one day and tell her, 'You can be anything you want in the world' ... In the past I might have said, 'You could be anything you want to be. But president? No' ... But now, he's given me that light. Now, I can tell her, 'You really can be anything you want in the world.'"
Amen to that, sir – and Thank You!
(First published on Ezine.com)
Four Key Reasons Why Barack Obama Will Be The Next President
Some time ago I wrote a blog on Barack Obama, the new presidential hopeful. Then I was in awe of the 'audacity' of this man from nowhere, much inspired by him and his dreams and I wondered whether his hopeful dash had anything to teach the UK. However, I concluded my blog with these interesting words: "Much as I would like Barack Obama to become the next President, I do not think that he will, on this round. I think he should be Hillary Clinton's running mate and what an unstoppable team they would be - his charisma with her experience, not to mention the differing gender, race and personal ethos which would add extra appeal. He would at least dent her conservatism while gaining the necessary training to succeed after her."
Well, a few months down the line, I take it ALL back! In my humble opinion Barack Obama will be the next President of the United States of America for the following reasons:
1. Grassroots Support: Barack is intent on being the People's President in a very clever move to distance himself from the big lobbyists and sectional interests which usually drain White House incumbents of their power. The fewer factions he has to answer to, both White and Black, when he gets into office the more his hands will be free to carry out the kind of policies he wishes to introduce to change America and unite it, as he is promising. If his hands are not tied with great expectations from those with the power, he can embrace the masses more sincerely with more room for action.
He is quietly involving as many people as he can so that when he actually stands on those White House steps, the ordinary man in the street who donated his/her $5 can actually beam with pride and say, "I helped to get him there." And that's a powerful sense of inclusion Mrs Clinton hasn't yet realised, or learnt, in our YouTube and blogger age. People want to feel significant and valued and, with his website, of which I am a member, Barack Obama is doing just that, with regular information and encouragement to be part of his circle as well as a pioneer in the dramatic change afoot in America. It would be exciting times for those who have never been involved in the political process or got near a potential president. To know that their effort and involvement can actually make a difference would be a tremendous boost for their feeling of worth and value.
Big business and big money can help to get you into any public office in the USA, but it is the people who will keep you there. By encouraging his supporters to hold meetings in their houses and communicate with one another as much as possible, in essence, to be mini-campaign managers for spreading the word on his behalf to attract even more local attention, he is building a formidable base of public support because nothing succeeds like word of mouth. Soon this 200,000 flock, and the money he is likely to receive, will both dramatically expand as people realise he is now a very serious contender.
2. New Style. It is clear that Barack and his team are determined to do things very differently. Notice how they deliberately waited to announce their first quarter figures, well after the hullaballoo of the Clinton camp. They were in no rush to boast. That was a shrewd move because Clinton's aides completely underestimated him, believing that their money was so high as to overwhelm her rivals. But, not for the first time, has Barack snatched the initiative and the media attention in a dignified way, demonstrating that he is his own man, who is determined to do things his way, and a new way, and can take care of himself very well. Notice too that he has refrained from cosying up to people like Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson, though he has praised their role in making it all possible for him with their pioneering days. He is trying not align himself with specific factions in order to encourage a broader appeal. And that can only be good for both the country and his support base.
3. Time For a Big Change. The negative antics of President Bush has ensured that America has lost a lot of its global power, credibility and respect, and is now ready for change. Not just a cosmetic one, but a dramatic change. In fact, watch the world's response to America once Barack is installed, at least in the first couple of years as he proves himself. His manner will be far less adversarial because he is a conciliator who speaks from love, not hate, and that is why people find it easy to warm to him. I knew I would see a Black president in my lifetime because the signs were always there. But I never believed one without too much experience and so young would be taking centre stage, which shows his maturity, sincerity and great competence at dealing with what he has to do.
4. Blind Spot. America has had a blind spot ever since Hillary has been campaigning. There is such a foregone conclusion about her ability to fundraise and fit the role of president that they have left little room for any alternatives. Yet no one could have predicted Barack Obama's presence and enormous success so far. Like the Google juggernaut, no one saw him coming. Being so preoccupied with all the other old contenders, the ones with the great patter empty presentation and hot air, they left little room for the new mystery lad. Those who did spot him in the distance were perhaps ready to dismiss his chances because of his relative inexperience. But Google came out of nowhere to dominate the world with their new way of thinking, amazing innovations and fearless way of acting. Barack Obama, whom the rest of the world had barely heard of 12 months ago, seems to have begun his own journey towards global domination.
It is no longer a question of whether he will get into the White House. It is simply a matter of when, and the sooner the better. Anyone who can have such an impact on a huge country in such a short time has tremendous talent for leadership, which his supporters obviously desire. The only place for such a talent to do itself justice is right at the top, in America's historical White House, its main seat of power, from which it can lead and inspire.
(First published on Helium.com)
Barack Obama's presidential grassroots campaign: Just hype or is it sincere?
I believe Barack Obama's grassroots approach is not only very sincere but also very clever because it falls firmly into line with his own strong beliefs on being more inclusive in policy and the way forward for America. Barack taps into the inspiration, and aspiratioan, of his followers to both lead, and be guided by, them in his bid for the presidency. He has already worked with grassroots in the community when he was younger and recognises the possibilities of building on the public perception of grassroots ownership in the campaign, particularly to foster a sense of pride within them as part of this dramatic change in American politics. There is no feeling like being there at the start of something exciting, and with huge potential, believing you can also make a difference, in your own small way, to its outcome and against the odds.
As a politician and senator, he has also seen first hand the effects of big public interest bodies on government, especially caused by the huge donations these interests make, and wants to be free from such obligations to be his own man when he is elected; to avoid being in the favour of any select group once he is in power. Moreover, Barack Obama is the new guy on the block. He has not had time to build up a political reputation like his rivals in the race and has probably assessed that, if he takes the people with him in grassroots support, he will be in a far more powerful position to claim to represent their views and aspirations than if he were backed by selected big businesses and interests groups.
The only drawback with such an approach is that the established big interests, the ones with the real backroom power, won't take him seriously, which is why Hillary has attracted their support in such numbers and is being funded by them. However, that perception is slowly changing in view of the funds he is also commanding for his campaign. The grassroots public certainly takes his efforts and objectives very seriously.
Barack Obama seems genuinely sincere and honest about his desire for a more inclusive, one-nation America and the grassroots campaign appears to be the most effective way to achieve this, to draw as many cultures and viewpoints as possible behind him and to take America in the spirit of collaboration and consensus that is his ideal. I believe that it is working already mainly because that approach is not a gimmick. The people know he is being sincere, they can see the results already from their own efforts and participation and that encourages and inspires them to fall behind his charismatic persona to help him realise the dream - a seemingly impossible one, but a dream that this unique campaign is helping to bring to life, slowly but surely.
(First published on Helium.com)
Will Hillary Clinton win the Democratic ticket for 2008?
No, she won't. It is never a good thing to peak too early in any competition when there is still a long way to go. Many people, especially voters who have not made up their minds, are probably toying with the idea of the first female president now. She is being given a lot of latitude to show what she means, where is is coming from and where she wishes to go. But her history with her husband, his behaviour and her reactions to it, will follow her right throughout the campaign and will surface with a vengeance nearer election day. That will deter a lot of people from making that final commitment to her.
Furthermore, the real rivalry hasn't begun yet between Hillary and Barack Obama. Currently, they are both being pleasant and cordial with one another. But it is bound to get highly personal nearer the time, when the stakes really rocket, and each side looks for knock-out blows to floor the other. Both Democrats are hungry for power, new entities in their own right and have enough clout and support to convince voters of their claim, so it could be a long war of attrition with Hillary being the loser.
The campaigning time has been much too long and should only last for about a year instead of this drawn out period when the incumbent is still very much in the frame. By election time, many people will be punch-drunk with Hillary's perceived coldness, ruthlessness and detachment. Those who do not regard a woman to be presidential material will be steadfastly supporting another man, and those who are not keen on yet another white person in the White House, and genuinely desire a change, will be turning to Obama.
It will be a fiercely fought contest as Hillary is quite tenacious and determined. But her steely character would have got on a lot of people's nerves by then and the thought of having the Clintons back in for yet another term will drive many people to other candidates. Hillary is enjoying her honeymoon spell with the voters just now, but she won't be going into the White House because the field is wide open and could produce a big surprise, regardless of how presidential she appears now.
It is much too early to call a definite win for Hillary, despite her great lead in the polls, and that length of time to the elections, and the fear of a repeat of Bill's term, are likely be her undoing.
Is the Bush Age responsible for the return to the racist '60s?
I have no scientific evidence to prove it and, no doubt, my American colleagues who can find such evidence will fish it out for me, but my gut instinct tells me that there have been far more openly racist incidents in the America during the presidency of George Bush than that of Bill Clinton. There appears to have been some awful openly racist acts, culminating in the recent Jena 6 debacle, and I believe they are not coincidental. They are happening for three main reasons.
First, the climate of care and compassion has eroded. With the Iraq war embedding Americans in an unwinnable morass of responsibility, it seems time to turn on each other, to accuse one another of not playing the game, not being supportive and not being 'patriotic enough. It means that people with the power, the political allegiance, the economic clout and the colour to match can dish the dirt, while the more vulnerable have to just take it or turn on their fellowmen to get their kicks.
Hillary Clinton did two things recently which have detracted heavily from her own credibility and questioned her ability to stay calm under fire and to actually lead others. First, she has sought to influence people's perception of Barack Obama by accusing him of not being truthful about his kindergarten years and his thirst for power to be president of the United States. Even going back to his former teachers for their comment, for crying out loud. When did we ever care what we said at that young age when the world seems amazing, we feel invincible, and the wish to be all things we see and hear about was an essential part of the emotional fantasy of growing up?
Who cares what we say before we are 18 and considered adult enough to take responsibility for our own reasoning and actions? Yet, at the first sign of an Obama lead, the lady panics and begins to dig some dirt, to quote what he said as a tiny tot, with great relish, when we all dreamt big dreams then. In fact, I remember wanting to be a doctor, a nurse or a teacher, when I had my altruistic day, and a haughty royal queen, like the 16th century queen of England, so that I could be off with the head of anyone who irritated me, complete with flowing robes and diamond crown! That is what growing up is all about: experimenting and dreaming. Whatever we dream about at that age tends to influence what we achieve later on. It remains in our subconscious, guiding us down the years towards fulfilment, or staying dormant while other goals take priority - a natural life process. If that is the best thing Hillary can do when she is under pressure, I would hate to see what happens when the going really gets tough.
Second, and even worse, she regarded attacking fellow Democrats as 'fun'. Really? what kind of leader regards attacking members of her own circle and allegiance as 'fun'? One could forgive her for saying that about Republicans, but members of her own party? Rivals of hers whom she would still have to work with, regardless of the outcome? Geeez. Anyone who thinks it is some kind of pleasant sport to denigrate anyone is not fit to be a leader, let alone president of the greatest country in the world. The most important attribute of a serious leader is compassion, with the second one being calm under pressure. That kind of leader is likely to take far more people with him/her than in rubbishing the opposition. I would not put my faith in anyone who is so insecure enough to wish to attack others for 'fun', to make themselves feel better or to appear superior. That does not show any backbone or resilience. That suggests someone who just wants to be president for its own sake, but cares little about the caring values and respect that come with such a high office. Notice how she told Katie Couric that she will definitely get the nomination, already dictating how the public will vote, instead of at least demurely saying that it is up to her public to choose her and she hopes they will.
Anyone who is already speaking for the voting public, leaving no room for doubt, while taking 'fun' in attacking others is riding for a fall and sounds like a very desperate person. One who would do anything to get that power, regardless of the effect on others. If the American people like that sort of person, and prefer that kind of 'leader', they will vote her in magnanimously. After all, a country will always get the leader it deserves.
(First published on Helium.com)
What could keep Barack Obama from the White House? Let me count the ways...
A few months ago I was sure Barack Obama would be America's next president, never mind what everyone else thought. He had the charisma, the vision, the articulate rendering of that vision, the looks, the sincerity, diverse appeal and the desire for national cohesion which set him apart from everyone else. One couldn't help but at least notice him, even if one wasn't as quickly convinced as I was. Now, one can feel his star is fading somewhat, though he certainly isn't out yet, and I have identified some troubling little boulders dancing in front of him, seeking to block his way, and he won't be able to take evasive action on all of them.
No matter how well Barack is doing he is continually being stumped by the following rocks, which hardly affects his rivals. I have listed them in order of their capacity to do him the most damage:
7. A woman is his main rival....At some other point in time, that might not be of much significance, but there are many women who would vote for Hillary just to keep another MAN from being president. Though Barack might be different in every way, he's still a man. Many women see the time as being ripe for a female president, especially one who has already experienced life in the White House, regardless of her credentials, and so she is likely to garner the sisters solidarity vote.
6. While other candidates make no apologies for their whiteness, and revel in it, he has to pretend he's NOT black, that he's just like everyone else... But he is and has to be proud of that fact. Equality and respect are not about ensuring sameness. True equality is about acknowledging and valuing difference. It is that little difference which allows another perspective, provides alternatives, breaks the predictable mould and adds to the whole; a significant difference which separates his approach from his rivals because of his unique experiences.
5. He is not supposed to focus on colour at any time, because nothing should be done on the basis of colour.....This comes from a perception by the members of the white public who would want to vote for him. But his white rivals have always operated on covert colour lines, from the basis of white privilege, with the odd nod to minorities when it is in their interests to do so. It's also a natural thing to do, to feel comfortable with one's kind and culture, and to look after the interests of those we value, though the educated and more aware members of the public do try to be more inclusive.
4. Lack of faith and belief in him....Barack is relatively new, without experience of high office. Coupled with that, he looks much younger than his years which tends to detract from his credibility. Put those together in a society that reveres ageing and experience and that leaves him trailing well behind.
3. Seeking to unite everyone in a common cause of nationalism....People love to be partisan, it is the competitive streak in all of us which fuels desire and keep us motivated. We tend to feel better showing allegiance to those who represent our aspirations, ideals and values. As we are all unique, uniting everyone on a single platform of togetherness is neither possible not desirable, because we are more likely to be galvanised through differences rather than similarities.
2. Impossible expectations, mainly from the African American community...He has the extra burden of being Black and is expected to lift the centuries of inequality and racism in his first month in office! They do not expect that of his White rivals, but, sharing their colour, he is expected to share their perception of the world too, and sense of injustice, and deliver as quickly as he is elected. If he fails in their expectations, which he is bound to do, then he would have confirmed the sceptics belief of how effective they thought he would be.
1. Trying to please everyone....But one can never please everybody. There will always be someone who will be upset by what he does because they probably have an agenda to keep him out and nitpicking will be their order of the day. He has to get off his current fence of approval-seeking and speak with passion about what he genuinely believes in. As long as he takes the majority public with him, that's all that matters at this stage. When he gets into the White House, he can bring the non-believers on board through his actions. Words can only work so far when you have no precedent.
It might be very useful for Barack to garner as much money for his campaign as possible, but he also has to bridge that credibility gap by showing what he's really capable of and giving the Democrats and the country a real alternative to Hillary Clinton. That certainly won't come through trying to please everyone or pretending that he's like everyone else.
Should There be Limits on Contributions to Political Campaigns by Individuals?
Yes there should be, every time. However, it shouldn't be in the actual amount of money being pledged, but in the percentage being contributed.
The main reason why any limits must be mandatory is because there is no such thing as a FREE lunch. No one gives politicians anything for free because, behind every donation, no matter how small, is the hope of some reward. The man in the street who might donate $1 is hoping that the politician will act in his favour when it comes to laws and initiatives which will affect him and his family, like reduced taxes etc. Just as the millionaire with his thousands is hoping that his business, organisation, product or service, will be catered for in legislation or protected against any adverse lawmaking.
So no one gives politically for the sake of it. That is why politicians have to be protected from being obliged to businesses and interest groups who could use the power of their money to get what they want, which might be against the public interest, and put undue pressure on them. That is what is happening in the UK at the moment in the this year's cash for peerages scandal where big businessmen have repeatedly donated to the government in power with the unwritten expectation of either getting a peerage, a knighthood or having preferential treatment for their businesses when it comes to the law or other aspects of government. This is not good to establish fair government for all.
Limiting the amount people contribute to elections keeps a fairer playing field between contributors. Moreover, by limiting the donation by percentage rather than actual amount, it means that people with money also get the opportunity to donate according to their capacity, because 1% of a $1000 income is far less than 1% of $1 billion. This varied amount should keep everyone happy all round.
A Word to Barack Obama: Why experience isn't what it's hyped to be!
Jamie Wallace, a 19-year-old Seattle University student, speaking about why he is supporting Barack Obama, wrapped it up in one sentence: "Sometimes experience is not what you need. Sometimes, it takes a fresh eye to look at issues." (See Obama: We'll 'transform America')
Absolutely.
We have heard a lot about experience these past few months, especially with relation to Barack Obama, the USA presidential candidate, and how little leadership experience he has compared to other people. But experience is often flaunted with little substance to back it up. Experience is also not a good thing to get results because experience has tradition at its core: dead men's solutions which suited their time, fear of risks and the constant grind of doing things in a certain way; a way which has been 'tried and tested' but which is guaranteed to produce the same, often debilitating, results.
Experience on its own keeps us in the past, saying the same old things, doing the same old actions, quoting the same old tired phrases, while a fresh mind opens new doors to possibilities and puts other options on the table. The trouble with this great 'experience' is that the more someone gets it, the more they believe they have all the answers and the less they seek to learn. Yet learning is the most important thing in our lives to widen our store of knowledge, to keep up with inevitable changes, to allow a new perspective and to prevent us being fossilised in the same ways of thinking and acting. One can be as experienced as one could be in dealing with people in America, but taking that experience to the UK or any other country will only be partially useful until one becomes more aware of the social and cultural norms that govern the new society one will be dealing with. A desire to learn and forget one's experience would be far more useful in that context. That is why America's reputation has suffered so dismally in that needless war with Iraq because it put its 'experience' of conflict in front of its ability to learn about the Iraqis and to use other untried methods and got stung in the process.
One of the strangest phenomenon in the world of work is getting experience and then how it is perceived by those who have it. Everyone, especially younger recruits, begin a new job all wide eyed and bushy tailed, eager to learn and to begin their journey on the career ladder. Ten years into that job, especially if the person hasn't moved away from it for other experiences, and he/she is likely to be fearful, clinging on to that job for dear life, feeling they cannot afford to take any risks to find another. Worst of all, they are likely to believe they cannot compete with anyone else because no other company would want them at that age and with that career history! Their long years of experience appeared to have counted for nothing. Instead of experience making them feel ready for other things, it keeps them stuck as their confidence falls. Thus they continue with their experience, getting the same results week after week, month after month, fearful of the wider world and new competition, while thinking how unworthy they have become.
The sad paradox is that the experience they have spent so much time acquiring appears increasingly useless in the face of their fears. So they will remain stuck as long as they can to avoid being rejected elsewhere.
Experience is a very limiting commodity in its use. It limits vision, aspirations, opportunities for change and, most important, it limits possibilities. Experience only sees itself, harps back to itself and promotes itself while preventing innovation and excitement along the way. Experience is also about the past, not the future because experience is a dead activity. It has already enjoyed it's time. A fresh new perspective, an open mind, a desire to learn what is necessary for the next situation, are all important arsenal in the competent leaders' bunker. For example, no amount of prior experience could have prepared me for Newsvine, not even my writing skills. But having that open mind to see things in different ways is helping me to learn pretty fast!
In any situation experience gives you the confidence to be able to see which route MIGHT be beneficial, based on what has already been tried, but it does not guarantee that route will work because it is based on past results. An old result is likely to be the last thing one needs to apply to a new situation, especially when it is likely to have the same effect. Experience stops people from making decisions they should make because they are afraid to stray from the 'accepted' or 'expected' path, which means stagnation and dithering while nothing new is sorted or achieved.
Barack Obama need not worry about his lack of experience. He might become the president but he won't be actually running the country. His civil servants and advisers will be. They will bring the expertise to his table while he uses that fresh, open and caring mind - and his acute instinct - to help decide what's good for a particular situation. He already showed this acumen by his decision not to join the clamour for war in Iraq. It shows a thinker, a man who weighed the consequences against accusations of not being 'patriotic' or perhaps being lily-livered, and stuck to his conscience. Not burdened by 'experience' like Hillary Clinton, or the need to appease interest groups, he could go with his own fresh view and stand tall and proud in the face of it, especially when history has proved him right with a vengeance.
We are right behind you, Mr Inexperienced President-to-be. Just keep on learning and good luck!
Why I support Barack Obama though I'm a Brit
Though I am all the way in the UK, across the Pond, I have watched Barack's progress with fascination and awe at the sheer possibilities. I believe that after the debacle of Iraq, the need for change is now, and it is blowing on a wind of hope towards us in Europe too, which gives an exciting feeling of anticipation in the air. I felt I wanted to show the global effect Barack Obama, a virtual unknown to us Brits, has already had on people like me, internationally, who cannot be a physical part of the tremendous campaign in the USA but who stand tall behind him anyway. An effect that emphasises a part of history in the making, part of changing perceptions, part of believing in the impossible and part of changing the direction and focus of America.
Words of support are easy to say, and many people will tag on when success is assured. But it takes some awesome believers at the very beginning, when things look distinctively hazy and unreal, to be part of the dream; to be part of the incredible hope of changing the status quo against all odds; to reach out and affect many other disenchanted people over the next few weeks and months and to actually DO something to help them. I have only my writing talent, and I put it at his disposal. It takes faith, belief, courage, persistence and patience to start at the beginning and his supporters now need those in abundance to help inspire, motivate and encourage him all the way to the White House. I can feel the excitement building up, the interest and the apprehension.
The sheer audacity of it all has captivated me for months. I have never had such great interest in an American election before. Elections in the USA have always been of cursory interest before now. We simply applauded the winner here in the UK and wished them well. But this is too much of an extraordinary happening to ignore or take for granted. I have even been moved and inspired to actually write articles about Barack even though I have deliberately steered clear of politics all my life. I am not a member of any political party in the UK, though I make sure I use the vote that suffragettes fought so hard to bestow to me.
I support Barack Obama wholeheartedly, despite being far away, because I have no doubt that he can deliver that change America needs now. The world needs a new, decisive and compassionate leadership from the greatest country in it. He is a man of integrity, understanding, unity, care and, above all - for me - sincerity, honesty and strength of purpose, the perfect attributes for a powerful leader. He says what he feels without the need to score political points. He has a great foundation to build on. He doesn't speak like a polished politician, just going through the motions, but like the guy next door who wants things to be better and is prepared to put himself out to do something about it, rather than just to whinge and complain.
Yes, he has a lot of innocence that will rapidly gush away, but I feel that he understands my dreams and aspirations, my joys and frustrations and where I'm coming from. There are many people like me in the UK who are not as vocal but who are quietly hopeful and confident that Barack will deliver those votes to bring a new dawn to our international community.
One will never know what he can achieve until he is installed into the White House. And, for me, that amazing moment cannot come soon enough.
Why Obama is Likely to Pip Clinton at The Post
The recent drop in support for Hillary Clinton is very telling but not entirely unexpected. It was bound to happen at some point. It is always better to take one's time and give one's rivals a false sense of security than to go all out from the the first day with a big momentum which is not sustainable. So it is never a good thing to peak too early in any competition when there is still a long way to go. Peaking merely creates underdogs with the fierce determination to unseat you. They have far less to lose and an awful lot to gain by your undoing.
Many people, especially voters who have not made up their minds, have been probably toying with the idea of the first female president. Hillary has been given a lot of latitude to show what she means, where she is coming from and where she wishes to go. But her history with her husband, his questionable behaviour and her reactions to it, will follow her throughout the campaign, especially if she gets the nomination, and will surface with a vengeance nearer the big election day. That will deter a lot of people from making that final commitment to her.
Furthermore, the real rivalry hasn't yet begun between Hillary and Barack Obama. They have both been pleasant and cordial with one another, up to now. But it is bound to get highly personal nearer the crucial decision time, when the stakes really rocket, and each side looks for knock-out blows to floor the other. Notice how quickly Hillary moved to the personal attacks on his past drug use once she senses his support increasing, while he has wisely kept a statesmanlike distance from personal attacks. Both Democrats are hungry for power, new entities in their own right and have enough clout and support to convince voters of their claim, so it could be a long war of attrition with controlling Hillary being the loser.
The campaigning time has been much too long and should only last for about a year, and take far less money, instead of this drawn out period when the sitting incumbent, Bush, is still very much in the frame. By election time, many people will be punch-drunk with Hillary's perceived coldness, ruthlessness and detachment. Those who do not regard a woman to be presidential material will be steadfastly supporting another man, and those who are not keen on yet another white person in the White House, and genuinely desire a change, will be turning to Obama.
It will be a fiercely fought contest as Hillary is quite tenacious and determined. But her steely character would have got on a lot of people's nerves by then and the thought of having the Clintons back in for yet another term will drive many people to other candidates. Hillary is enjoying her honeymoon spell with the voters just now, for a variety of reasons, including the novelty of a female candidate, but she won't be going into the White House because she is a lot of fluff without substance and lacks integrity - a key leadership quality. Moreover, the field is still wide open and could produce a big surprise, regardless of how presidential she appears now.
How the Election of Barack Obama to the Presidency Could Make America Internationally Great Again
Senator Bob Kerrey has apologised for linking Barack Obama's Muslim connections to the possibility of him reaching out to Black youth and Muslims around the world. But I do not see anything negative in that observation. There was a lot of truth in it.
I am speaking sincerely as a Briton, looking on from the outside. Americans don't even begin to understand the absolute gem, in worldwide terms, they would have in Barack Obama, as a president. He is a virtual unknown, untainted by the dark underside of US politics, he is extremely sincere and unifying, he is aware of his roots and how they might help or hinder him, he has clear leadership qualities in the way he has galvanised such a vast crowd of committed people behind him so quickly, and he is Black. This last point cannot be minimised because he would have one hell of an appeal to minorities everywhere in the world because of the sheer unbelievable nature of a Black person being president of the most powerful country in the world and the pride it would give them in our global community.
People might say that colour shouldn't matter. But only those whose colour has been favoured can afford to be colour-blind. Women didn't get added visibility in our society by people pretending that gender didn't matter. People had to show up the inequalities based on gender before it was appreciated just how badly women had been excluded and treated. They didn't go around saying there's no sexism to justify the status quo. The same with colour. The inequalities around it have to be acknowledged first before they can be remedied. So, in this amazing election campaign, America cannot afford to be colour-blind. They have to be for ALL colours, not just the predictable one.
Overnight, Barack Obama would make America great internationally again just by his presence. Hillary Clinton means more of the same. Nothing new there, except for her gender. What would happen in the first two years, guaranteed, is a positive attention to America until they see how he actually does as a president. Then reality would kick in, for good or bad, but the novelty would have huge international spin-offs as everyone rushes to meet him, listen to this new voice of reason and associate with him. He is a PR's dream!
A White person is unlikely understand that aspect in a million years because a White person has always been president of the United states, with the power, privilege and pride it has given all the other White citizens and groups down the years. A privilege they have taken for granted and regarded as automatic; one that, because of its relentlessly biased nature, has helped to encouage racism, inequality and stereotypes about those who are not White.
America has the chance of a new dawn in Barack Obama, especially with the ongoing morass in Iraq that is sapping the spirit of Americans; a real opportunity to demonstrate that, as the most diverse and powerful country in our world, it does value every citizen, regardless of colour or origin. It means all future elections will be more open too because they will be perceived to be inclusive, to allow ANYONE in America, with the money and resources, to fight that battle and ultimately win. Currently, for whatever reason, the strong message being given is that only one colour, and one gender, merits the presidency.
I know his election would have an effect on Britain's perspective almost immediately. You'd better believe it. Time for a genuine change.
Obama's Fierce Urgency of Now: A brilliant, inspirational address!
Someone commented below the video that:
"Intellect makes decisions. When you let your feelings do the thinking, troubles arise."
My reply would be: It takes BOTH intellect and emotions to govern countries. And Barack Obama is magnificent in both.
Problems arise when leaders try to depend purely on intellect (they forget the human touch and personal sacrifices the public have to make to get their soulless policies through) or purely on emotions (when they are ignorant of the arguments and factors behind the real issues.)
Barack Obama is neither purely intellectual or purely emotional. He is rich in both, with a great empathy for people ad how they feel. He can use these two important skills to lead America and to influence the world, especially at this volatile time when sincere and honest leadership is sorely needed. America would do itself a great injustice to ignore this amazing candidate and his formidable potential.
The people who keep saying they don't have the faith in Obama to be the next president are really saying that they don't have the faith in themselves to make the right choices to bring about the change necessary in order to stop them getting the same results from the same tired, broken system and the same tired, spent politicians.
Good luck on January 3rd, Senator, a truly exciting day. If you sweep Iowa, which you certainly will, you will also sweep America and it could do with a little early spring cleaning just now to get rid of some ghastly, clinging cobwebs! :o)
