Considering the slew of less than desirable reality shows that seem to dominate the airwaves, the plethora of talent competition shows and even those funny ‘80s and ‘90s sitcoms I enjoy watching – it was refreshing to watch something and someone that was positive, informational and inspiring.
I’m talking about the Democratic National Convention speeches that kicked off on Tuesday.
While all the speakers did a great job, Mayor Julian Castro of San Antonio and first lady Michelle Obama stole the show. The latter doing exceptionally well, as she passionately talked about her initial fears four years ago when President Obama was elected, his genuine concern for this country, and of course her most important role as “mom-in-chief.”
Politics aside, the Black community needed to hear what Michelle Obama said. They needed to be reminded of the sacrifices a Black man (Michelle’s father) must make for his family as well as the importance of unconditional love. Blacks needed to also be reminded of the strength of the family unit and why being committed to your spouse and children are of the utmost importance. We needed to be reminded that while we may be personally blessed, we also have a responsibility to be a blessing to other people.
On a side note, it is refreshing to see a woman love her husband as much as Michelle does and it is even greater to see a man love his wife in the adoring way that President Obama loves his wife. The president and first lady are examples of real love. They show Blacks, and Americans in general that love is patient, kind and truly endures all and conquers all.
And while the Obama’s are probably aware that they have an impact on today’s perception of marriage, even they may not fully understand the tremendous effect they have really made on people’s personal lives. I cannot count the number of times I heard someone (regardless of color) say, “ I want a wife like Michelle” or “I want a husband like President Obama.”
Simply having a high standard of comparison can raise one’s individual expectations, which will hopefully reduce some of the public foolishness we often see on reality shows such as “Love & Hip-Hop” and “Mob Wives.”
OK, back to Michelle Obama’s speech: While I specifically mentioned that Blacks needed to hear Michelle’s speech, her message was one that resonated with all races and genders. It was universal.
During Michelle’s speech social media was all-abuzz as people commented on everything from her attire, those fabulously toned arms, and of course her speech. It seemed that through her very appearance at the Democratic National Convention, Michelle Obama reinvigorated a nation.
Reinvigoration is good, but it can be short-lived. We are currently a little over four weeks away from the Oct. 9 voter registration deadline. The enthusiasm that was felt during and following the Democratic and Republican National Conventions needs to be transferred to encouraging as many people as possible to register to vote. And even once Oct. 9 passes, momentum nationwide must continue as we educate ourselves on the various agendas of all political candidates locally and nationally so that we make an informed decision come Nov. 6 when we go to the polls to cast our votes.
So while Facebook and Twitter chatter are great, let us not forget to turn our words into action by voting in this very important election.
You can email comments to Shannon Williams at shannonw@indyrecorder.com.
