I have to say, that the last ten minutes of the SOTU,

[Blue_Roses]

I felt breathless. I think I had to remind myself to breathe. It wasn't just the words he said, but the passion that exhumed from those words. Passion to really want our country to succeed and to help those of us who are struggling and desperately looking to him for help. And he's humble about it.

I think what strikes me each time he "brings it home" is that while he is truly gifted with his words, it's the true passion he feels behind those words--and the maturity with how he uses his words. Compare that to the republicans and there's no contest.

As I was listening to the republican response and the "pseudo-SOTU" stage they had concocted, I kept thinking that this is such a joke, because that's what it looked like--staged and acting--with NO passion or desire to really "see" what Americans are struggling with.

I couldn't sleep last night because I was so hyped, but the incredible republican cynicism still bothered me. It's like a bunch of spoiled "baby booming brats" who are mad that their dad took the keys away for coming home late.

[Cha]

1. It is the passion behind the words..

and the will to make it happen.

I don't watch any of the repub/corporatemediawhore response bc that would be a buzz kill.

[Cary]

2. Brings back the old. . .

"Everyone chill the fuck out, I've got this" images.

This man isn't going to lose. Just the way it is.

[Fire1]

3. Damn straight! The hairs on my arms stood up! lol!! n/t

[ginnyinWI]

4. he's very tough.

I think most people underestimate that in him. He's competitive and has the drive to persist and get it done.

Some say he was angry last night but I disagree. At least not out of control angry. He was stern, and signaled that he's going to put up with no nonsense. And I don't think it was mere posturing.

Not that people are afraid of him. Just on their toes, because he doesn't suffer fools.

[Born_A_Truman]

5. Ok, I was in tears the last few minutes

So moving. So sincere. So Obama.

[JimWis]

6. I agree. Did you notice the total silence in the room toward the

end. You could hear his hands each time he rested them on the podium. It was powerful.

[Blue_Roses]

8. yes! The silence was deafening!

I think that's when I realized the impact of this speech.

[bigwillq]

7. The last 10 minutes were very good.

I thought the whole speech was very good. It was a speech that needed to be made. Good job, Mr. President. Now, get to work! :)

[goclark]

9. What is his IQ? He is highly gifted to say the least

And, he has a Social Intelligence that is amazing.

He is wide awake and they are simply not able to keep up with his message and his mind.