Tears of Joy

Five days later, and the excitement and joy hasn't abated.

There are a few times in my life that I remember as defining historical events, where it was evident that something momentous was happening which would change us all. Some were frightening or sad -- the assassinations and riots in the 60's, the end of the VietNam war and Nixon's resignation, and more recently the horror of 9/11.

But the last event of such significance that was so filled with hope was the fall of the Berlin wall almost 20 years ago.

On Tuesday night something changed. Everywhere crowds of people were in the streets, dancing and cheering, with tears running down their faces. Can anyone remember seeing hundreds of people shouting with joy in front of the White House in any election in the past? Five days later we still have economic challenges, climate change fears and an abysmal health care system. And yet there's something different.

Six days ago we wondered if it would ever be possible for us to overcome the enormous problems we face, and what sort of world would be left to our grandchildren.

Today we are realizing that our grandchildren will know a world that has the potential to be so much better simply because we have allowed ourselves to walk away from prejudice and divisive stereotypes. Today I feel a renewed sense of possibility. And all because of one remarkable man who has managed to convince millions that things can be better with the simple words "Yes we can".