a new dawn

out of all 366 days in 2008, this by far will be THE day that will be remembered by you, me, and many people across this globe. beyond 2008, this is a day unlike any in our lifetime. in regard to photography, i've referenced a concept called "the decisive moment." today was a decisive moment for our country to redeem and redefine itself.

on a more personal level, i was glad share this night with good folks. it was perfect: we counted down [like it was new year's] to 8pm expecting a projection of a california win as polls closed and instead were greeted with the words "barack obama elected president" flashing across the screen. we popped the champagne to the sound of cars honking in the street. then released cheers and tears as we called/texted/messaged other friends in sd/nyc/sf. this was a win to be shared, a win that is OURS. a win that we especially appreciate as the children of immigrants, people of color...those who have not always been seen or heard as americans.

and we shared a few more tears as we proudly listened to our president-elect speak,

"…our stories are singular, but our destiny is shared, and a new dawn of American leadership is at hand. To those who would tear this world down – we will defeat you. To those who seek peace and security – we support you. And to all those who have wondered if America’s beacon still burns as bright – tonight we proved once more that the true strength of our nation comes not from our the might of our arms or the scale of our wealth, but from the enduring power of our ideals: democracy, liberty, opportunity, and unyielding hope."