I'm grateful for DU

[berni_mccoy]

“I wish it need not have happened in my time," said Frodo. "So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”

I’m only 50 but I’m in the high risk category for exposure to COVID-19. I joined DU in 2004 after Kerry lost. The Kerry campaign had The Larry’s Aeries who were organized advocates during the campaign. We failed. And many of us joined DU shortly after the 2004 election.

Since then I’ve campaigned for every Democratic candidate that I could and I’ve given a large percentage of my savings. I’ve been on the ins and outs here as I stood for my principals but never once did I think that DU or it’s founders were ever anything but the better angels.

Since COVID-19 was discovered I’ve been concerned. But now I’m stressed out. Not only am I high risk if I get it but so are my sons. Many here may know why I’ve advocated for single payer. I’ve met President Obama as have my sons. He was a great President. He was prepared to do so much more. But alas he was limited by those who would block him or even undo what he aspired to achieve.

President Obama is a good person. I miss him. And I wish his full potential could have been realized. At this point in my life I am doubtful we will get there. And that gives me dread for my boys. But Obama taught me one important thing: Hope.

If I don’t get past this... and I hope with everything that I do... I ask that DU be that hope. I ask that you carry on and keep pushing for progress. It is very important not just for my boys but for everyone who is vulnerable.

Don’t accept the middle ground. Expect more from the supposedly greatest country in the world. Demand it. For that is the potential of America. It has yet to be realized but it can be.

The proof of that is in the Presidency of Barack Obama. I leave you with a picture of him with my son being a man who is a dad and who appreciates those who share his position:

[Wounded Bear]

1. Glad to have you around...

this place can be a haven and a comfort much of the time.

Gets a little wacky sometimes, but overall it's nice to know it's here.

[berni_mccoy]

2. Thanks Wounded Bear

[Hekate]

3. I've used that quote so many times. The movie came out during the BushCheney admin...

...and when I first watched it, those lines pierced my heart. I went back to the book and marked the passage. I typed it out and pinned it to my wall.

Thank you for this post. Take care of yourself.

[berni_mccoy]

4. Thanks Hekate

It is one of my favorite quotes too. You are one of the best DU has to offer. Thank you for being here.

[Phoenix61]

5. I would be a raving lunatic of it weren't for DU.

I’m in Gaetz, Dunn, Rubio, territory. Need I say more?

[berni_mccoy]

6. Same even though I'm not in the same red zone you are!

[cp]

7. Me, too. Thank you, all!

[warmfeet]

8. We will be that hope.

I ask the same of you if I do not make it (I am also high risk).

I will always fight like hell for those who appreciate life and for those who fight for others lives.

Barack Obama is a hero to life. I will always fight for that legacy, and that potential.

[Karadeniz]

9. That was a wonderful message to read! I think you spoke for us all. Stay indoors and keep safe

[iluvtennis]

10. We're all going to be here together to do all in our power to protect ourselves against

Covid-19. Let's all keep posting the latest/greatest info on Covid-19 and how to protect ourselves/our family/friends.

[volstork]

11. Thank you so much for this.

I appreciate your sharing your personal story, and also your hopes and aspirations for us as a nation. DU has been a place of sanity for me during some very dark years.

I am grateful for you all. Thank you berni, for reminding me.

[jmbar2]

12. Many thanks as well

This community is a comforting place to be right now.

[mcar]

13. ...

[musette_sf]

14. I am also grateful for DU.

Intelligent people with a common purpose, with suggestions, help, and stories to help us get through this.

[alwaysinasnit]

15. Thank you for helping to give voice to so many that are unheard. Our children are our most precious

gifts. I salute you and wish you and your loved ones health and strength to carry on.