Is Obama An Enlightened Being? 8 June 2008
Thanks to moviebuddy for sending this one by Mark Morford. In his article, the SF Gate Columnist asks,”Is Obama an enlightened being? Spiritual wise ones say: This sure ain’t no ordinary politician. You buying it?” I invite you to read for yourself and opine away:
“I find I’m having this discussion, this weird little debate, more and
more, with colleagues, with readers, with liberals and moderates and
miserable, deeply depressed Republicans and spiritually amped persons of
all shapes and stripes and I’m having it in particular with those who seem
confused, angry, unsure, thoroughly nonplussed, as they all ask me the
same thing: What the hell’s the big deal about Obama?
I, of course, have an answer. Sort of.
Warning: If you are a rigid pragmatist/literalist, itchingly evangelical,
a scowler, a doubter, a burned-out former ’60s radical with no hope left,
or are otherwise unable or unwilling to parse alternative New Age speak,
click away right now, because you ain’t gonna like this one little bit.
Ready? It goes likes this:
Barack Obama isn’t really one of us. Not in the normal way, anyway.
This is what I find myself offering up more and more in response to the
whiners and the frowners and to those with broken or sadly dysfunctional
karmic antennae – or no antennae at all – to all those who just don’t
understand and maybe even actively recoil against all this chatter about
Obama’s aura and feel and MLK/JFK-like vibe.
To them I say, all right, you want to know what it is? The appeal, the
pull, the ethereal and magical thing that seems to enthrall millions of
people from all over the world, that keeps opening up and firing into new
channels of the culture normally completely unaffected by politics?
No, it’s not merely his youthful vigor, or handsomeness, or even inspiring
rhetoric. It is not fresh ideas or cool charisma or the fact that a black
president will be historic and revolutionary in about a thousand different
ways. It is something more. Even Bill Clinton, with all his effortless,
winking charm, didn’t have what Obama has, which is a sort of powerful
luminosity, a unique high-vibration integrity.
Dismiss it all you like, but I’ve heard from far too many enormously
smart, wise, spiritually attuned people who’ve been intuitively blown away
by Obama’s presence – not speeches, not policies, but sheer presence – to
say it’s just a clever marketing ploy, a slick gambit carefully
orchestrated by hotshot campaign organizers who, once Obama gets into
office, will suddenly turn from perky optimists to vile soul-sucking
lobbyist whores, with Obama as their suddenly evil, cackling overlord.
Here’s where it gets gooey. Many spiritually advanced people I know (not
coweringly religious, mind you, but deeply spiritual) identify Obama as a
Lightworker, that rare kind of attuned being who has the ability to lead
us not merely to new foreign policies or health care plans or whatnot, but
who can actually help usher in a new way of being on the planet, of
relating and connecting and engaging with this bizarre earthly experiment.
These kinds of people actually help us evolve. They are philosophers and
peacemakers of a very high order, and they speak not just to reason or
emotion, but to the soul.
The unusual thing is, true Lightworkers almost never appear on such a
brutal, spiritually demeaning stage as national politics. This is why
Obama is so rare. And this why he is so often compared to Kennedy and
Martin Luther King Jr., to those leaders in our culture whose stirring
vibrations still resonate throughout our short history.
Are you rolling your eyes and scoffing? Fine by me. But you gotta wonder,
why has, say, the JFK legacy lasted so long, is so vital to our national
identity? Yes, the assassination canonized his legend. The Kennedy family
is our version of royalty. But there’s something more. Those attuned to
energies beyond the literal meanings of things, these people say JFK
wasn’t assassinated for any typical reason you can name. It’s because he
was just this kind of high-vibration being, a peacemaker, at odds with the
war machine, the CIA, the dark side. And it killed him.
Now, Obama. The next step. Another try. And perhaps, as Bush laid waste to
the land and embarrassed the country and pummeled our national spirit into
disenchanted pulp and yet ironically, in so doing has helped set the stage
for an even larger and more fascinating evolutionary burp, we are finally
truly ready for another Lightworker to step up.
Let me be completely clear: I’m not arguing some sort of utopian
revolution, a big global group hug with Obama as some sort of happy hippie
camp counselor. I’m not saying the man’s going to swoop in like a
superhero messiah and stop all wars and make the flowers grow and birds
sing and solve world hunger and bring puppies to schoolchildren.
Please. I’m also certainly not saying he’s perfect, that his presidency
will be free of compromise, or slimy insiders, or great heaps of
politics-as-usual. While Obama’s certainly an entire universe away from
George W. Bush in terms of quality, integrity, intelligence and overall
inspirational energy, well, so is your dog. Hell, it isn’t hard to stand
far above and beyond the worst president in American history.
But there simply is no denying that extra kick. As one reader put it to
me, in a way, it’s not even about Obama, per se. There’s a vast amount of
positive energy swirling about that’s been held back by the armies of
BushCo darkness, and this energy has now found a conduit, a lightning rod,
is now effortlessly self-organizing around Obama’s candidacy. People and
emotions and ideas of high and positive vibration are automatically drawn
to him. It’s exactly like how Bush was a magnet for the low vibrational
energies of fear and war and oppression and aggression, but, you know,
completely reversed. And different. And far, far better.
Don’t buy any of it? Think that’s all a bunch of tofu-sucking New Agey
bulls– and Obama is really a dangerously elitist political salesman whose
inexperience will lead us further into darkness because, when you’re
talking national politics, nothing, really, ever changes? I understand. I
get it. I often believe it myself.
Not this time.”
Me either, Mark, me either!
It’s Our Time 4 June 2008
“You may say I’m a dreamer, but I’m not the only one.” Congrats to Obama for showing us, once again, that “there’s never been anything false about hope!” Here’s the message I got last night from the man himself:
Jennifer –
I’m about to take the stage in St. Paul and announce that we have won the Democratic nomination for President of the United States.
It’s been a long journey, and we should all pause to thank Hillary Clinton, who made history in this campaign. Our party and our country are better off because of her.
I want to make sure you understand what’s ahead of us. Earlier tonight, John McCain outlined a vision of America that’s very different from ours — a vision that continues the disastrous policies of George W. Bush.
But this is our moment. This is our time. Our time to turn the page on the policies of the past and bring new energy and new ideas to the challenges we face. Our time to offer a new direction for the country we love.
It’s going to take hard work, but thanks to you and millions of other donors and volunteers, no one has ever been more prepared for such a challenge.
Thank you for everything you’ve done to get us here. Let’s keep making history.
Barack
Keep on imagining, people. Anything really is possible!
Love,
Your very optimistic Pixie
Yes They Can 4 April 2008
Thanks to moviebuddy for making my morning with this:
Jennifer,
Here’s something for your website. It’s a classroom of kids in the Bronx, talking about the race, politics and Barack Obama. Watch what these kids have to say about politics and race in this country:
These kids see a place for themselves in the political process for the first time. It’s truly moving to see young people inspired by a political leader — someone who gives them hope and reminds them that they can be anything they want to be if they work hard.
Here’s to hope having a home in our hearts & in our schools, where we need it the most!
Viva Obama! 20 February 2008
On the heels of big wins in Wisconsin & Hawaii, check out the Amigos de Obama:
I ask you, “How can Hillary compete with that?”
2-4-6-8, What Do We Appreciate? 13 February 2008
As I celebrate the recent Potomac sweeps that made my man, Barack Obama, the official front-runner in the Democratic primary, please pause to peruse Halperin’s Take below. Here he cites the Sixteen Underappreciated Obama Advantages. It seems to me, though, they’re really starting to show:
Mark HalperinObama’s February momentum, favorable press coverage, surging delegate totals, immunity from “Obama Fatigue” (particularly when compared with the unexpected, intense levels of Clinton Fatigue and Clinton animus within the Democratic Party), and still-viable donors are getting a lot of attention, but what else does he have going for him (that campaign watchers are not appreciating to the fullest)?
1. A clear, consistent, constant message frame — change — that is patently inspirational and plays most favorably in the current media and electoral environments.
2. A strategic vision of how to win that hasn’t changed since day one – almost exactly a year ago.
3. The ability to arouse unqualified pride, excitement, and righteousness in his supporters (new voters, old voters, and superdelegates alike), who enjoy feeling fashionably forward-looking and passionate about politics.
4. A coalition no one has ever put together before in a Democratic nomination fight – the most loyal Democrats (blacks) and the least loyal ones (Volvo suburbanites).
5. A candidate with the skill to both write and deliver moving, eloquent, historic-feeling and momentum-inducing speeches at pivotal moments (victory speeches, major rallies, crucial battlegrounds).
6. A tight-knit staff that never fights with each other publicly and rarely in private – who respect and like each other.
7. No single, dominant strategic thinker who sets the campaign agenda, inspires eye-rolling and resentment among colleagues, and whose decisions are second-guessed.
8. A candidate who trusts his staff — and never wonders if they are working hard enough on his behalf, or questions their devotion.
9. A candidate with an uncanny natural sense — rare in someone so new to national politics — of timing, pacing, rhythm, and tone.
10. A candidate who generally has fun on the campaign trail — and shows it (even when he is tired).
11. Less bureaucracy.
12. The ability to control most leaks, and roll out endorsements and other announcements on the campaign’s own terms.
13. The ability to raise millions without requiring precious time from the candidate.
14. True grassroots organizing, often without direction from headquarters — both on the Internet and in real life (including canvassing and “visibility” activities).
15. A home base in Illinois–there are far fewer political distractions in Chicago than in Washington.
16. An electorate that seems oddly indifferent to conventional norms of preparedness for the job of commander-in-chief — and which appears even more indifferent to the existence (or absence) of detailed policy prescriptions despite the grave problems confronting the nation.
Gobama!!
Yes We Can! 7 February 2008
Since the Clintons have dug deep into their own pockets, perhaps it’s time we do the same? Please check out this inspiring video made by some Obama supporters you just might recognize:
& if you feel called at all to give, the man’s making it easy here, 
May hope float on & on & on…
Uper-say Uesday-tay 5 February 2008
As I sit back to watch the ballot boxes, I remain hopeful & fired-up for Obama. But, jet-lagged from my Seattle escape, I’ll let Toni Morrison work her magic for the man…
Dear Senator Obama,
This letter represents a first for me–a public endorsement of a Presidential candidate. I feel driven to let you know why I am writing it. One reason is it may help gather other supporters; another is that this is one of those singular moments that nations ignore at their peril. I will not rehearse the multiple crises facing us, but of one thing I am certain: this opportunity for a national evolution (even revolution) will not come again soon, and I am convinced you are the person to capture it.
May I describe to you my thoughts?
I have admired Senator Clinton for years. Her knowledge always seemed to me exhaustive; her negotiation of politics expert. However I am more compelled by the quality of mind (as far as I can measure it) of a candidate. I cared little for her gender as a source of my admiration, and the little I did care was based on the fact that no liberal woman has ever ruled i n America. Only conservative or “new-centrist” ones are allowed into that realm. Nor do I care very much for your race[s]. I would not support you if that was all you had to offer or because it might make me “proud.”
In thinking carefully about the strengths of the candidates, I stunned myself when I came to the following conclusion: that in addition to keen intelligence, integrity and a rare authenticity, you exhibit something that has nothing to do with age, experience, race or gender and something I don’t see in other candidates. That something is a creative imagination which coupled with brilliance equals wisdom. It is too bad if we associate it only with gray hair and old age. Or if we call searing vision naivete. Or if we believe cunning is insight. Or if we settle for finessing cures tailored for each ravaged tree in the forest while ignoring the poisonous landscape that feeds and surrounds it. Wisdom is a gift; you can’t train for it, inherit it, learn it in a class, or earn it in the workplace–that access can foster the acquisition of knowledge, but not wisdom.
When, I wondered, was the last time this country was guided by such a leader? Someone whose moral center was un-embargoed? Someone with courage instead of mere ambition? Someone who truly thinks of his country’s citizens as “we,” not “they”? Someone who understands what it will take to help America realize the virtues it fancies about itself, what it desperately needs to become in the world?
Our future is ripe, outrageously rich in its possibilities. Yet unleashing the glory of that future will require a difficult labor, and some may be so frightened of its birth they will refuse to abandon their nostalgia for the womb.
There have been a few prescient leaders in our past, but you are the man for this time.
Good luck to you and to us.
Toni Morrison
I anxiously await the rebirth of our nation! You?
5 Alive 30 January 2008
When a local Barack-backer called yesterday, she reminded me just how “now” the time is in New York. They are looking for volunteers to hit the streets & drum up more Barack business here in Manhattan. As I’ll be scoping the Seattle scene until Super Tuesday, I promised to Pixie-post (again). So here I am, pounding the virtual pavement for Obamanation, & looking for 5 fresh faces. If you’re ready to feel the real deal, please meet Mr. Obama for the first time, or all over again:
& you can keep hope hopping by giving here:
They take it all – time, talent, treasure – so just tell ‘em I sent you, & thanks!
Here Come the Kennedys 29 January 2008
Thanks to moviebuddy, I’m sharing this truthout article in its entirety. The time has come, people, & The Torch Is Passed.
There are moments in American politics when you know you are witnessing history. When Ted Kennedy, Caroline Kennedy and Patrick Kennedy endorsed Barack Obama Monday it was one of those moments. In front of a packed house of mostly college students at Bender Arena on the campus of American University, the Kennedys passed the torch to the person they believe will transform American politics.
As she introduced her uncle, Caroline, the daughter of slain President John F. Kennedy, told the cheering crowd: “Over the years, I’ve been deeply moved by the people who’ve told me they wish they could feel inspired and hopeful about America the way people did when my father was president. This longing is even more profound today. Fortunately, there is one candidate who offers that same sense of hope and inspiration, and I am proud to endorse Senator Barack Obama for president.”
Senator Kennedy told the crowd that he “respected the strength, the work and dedication of two other Democrats still in the race: Hillary Clinton and John Edwards. They are my friends; they have been my colleagues in the Senate. John Edwards has been a powerful advocate for economic and social justice. And Hillary Clinton has been in the forefront on issues ranging from health care to the rights of women around the world. Whoever is our nominee will have my enthusiastic support.”
But the senior senator from Massachusetts went on to say: “I am proud to stand here today and offer my help, my voice, my energy and my commitment to make Barack Obama the next president of the United States.”
Countering criticism of Obama’s qualifications, Kennedy had the following to say:
I know that he’s ready to be president on day one. And when he raises his hand on Inauguration Day, at that very moment, we will lift the spirits of our nation and begin to restore America’s standing in the world. There was another time, when another young candidate was running for president and challenging America to cross a New Frontier. He faced public criticism from the preceding Democratic president, who was widely respected in the party. Harry Truman said we needed “someone with greater experience” – and added: “May I urge you to be patient.” And John Kennedy replied: “The world is changing. The old ways will not do…. It is time for a new generation of leadership.”
Senator Kennedy also made a series of thinly veiled references to clashes with the Clintons over recent weeks. He said that Barack Obama would represent a break with “cynical” tactics of “demonizing” opponents.
“With Barack Obama we can turn the page on the old politics of misrepresentation and distortion,” he said; “we can close the book on the old politics of race against race.”
Mr. Kennedy is understood to have been repulsed by Mr. Clinton’s alleged use of racial politics.
Even Sunday, Bill Clinton compared Obama’s victory in South Carolina to Jesse Jackson’s win there, reminding everyone that Jackson didn’t get the nomination. Stephanie Wilson, a supporter of Obama, said she wonders why Clinton didn’t mention that John Edwards or Al Gore won South Carolina. She went on to say that “we know the real answer to that; they weren’t black, and Bill Clinton is trying to say that Obama only won because he is black. Is that why he won Iowa too?”
The Kennedys’ endorsements follow other key Massachusetts endorsements. Senator John Kerry and Governor Deval L. Patrick have already endorsed Obama in a state that will be one of the major contests next Tuesday. Other key states Tuesday will be California, Missouri, Georgia, Minnesota and New Jersey, along with Senators Obama and Clinton’s home states of Illinois and New York.
Another state with a contest next Tuesday is Kansas, where Governor Kathleen Sebelius is expected to endorse Obama perhaps as early as today. Sebelius delivered the Democratic response to Bush’s State of the Union address Monday night. According to ABC News, she made up her mind to endorse Obama over the weekend.
This will be a crucial week in the campaign. To date, Barack Obama has earned 34 delegates, Hillary Clinton 21 and John Edwards 12. Those numbers do not include “super delegates,” who can change their mind anytime they want, or Iowa and Nevada delegates who won’t be selected for a couple of months. On February 5, there are 2,064 delegates up for grabs, and 2,022 is the magic number for securing the nomination.
By Scott Galindez
t r u t h o u t | PerspectiveTuesday 29 January 2008
I don’t know about you, but I’ve never been more hopeful!!
