Did you watch? I’m an open admirer of Michelle O, and I gotta give it up for my girl — she was stunning tonight. First of all — that dress. That color. GORGEOUS. Her makeup, flawless. And her words, poignant and resonant.
In case you missed the speech, Yahoo and CNN both have recaps. She shared her family background and her father’s struggles through illness, she explained her attraction and admiration for Barack, commemorated the historic significance of the timing of the Democratic National Convention — the 88th anniversary of women winning the right to vote, and the 45th anniversary of Dr. King’s “I have a dream” speech — and payed tribute to Hillary Clinton to thunderous applause. She said all of the right things to directly address those who would still question her patriotism and pride in America.
NPR has a transcript here. I just want to know — did you watch Michelle’s speech tonight? Did she nail it, or am I just hopelessly biased? What did you think?
For even more politics, check out Jack and Jill Politics, Pam’s House Blend, and Michelle Obama Watch for coverage live from the convention!
She nailed it! I was crying near the end. “The empty seat at the table” got me. She looked amazing, and was the very definition of class and elegance. That was a very moving speech. The fact that some dumb ass reporter immediately comes on after the speech commenting on how many times she said America killed it for me though. I had to turn the tv off before I broke it. They tear her apart I swear.
I am so inspired by Michelle! She is the embodiment of the black women who came before us. She supports her husband while never ceding her own voice. She is an accomplished woman who is an inspiration for all women who seek to have a career and family. I aspire to be as gracious and classy as she is. Oh, and she was absolutely stunning!
I was moved to tears by her and more so by the Obama family, her respect and admiration for her mother and father, and the unique bond she shares with her brother. The image of healthy black families is so important to see and their love is palpable. Barack and Michelle are in love and their daughters are just adorable. I love Sasha’s spunk and Malia’s grace!
Yes she nailed it! And she’s been nailing it since it all along since this race started. If anyone doubts she loves the country and her family comes first; then they are without hope. It’s time to move on and make sure the Republicans are defeated. I got t’d off when people kept commenting tonight that the convention speakers did not attack McCain enough–come on people…what do you want? First you say you want to understand the Obamas and when enough attention is given to that; you complain that not enough time was spent on McCain. And my other thought: if the Hillary supporters would rather vote for McCain than Obama: they’ve got serious issues.
Did you see the same speech I did? It was so overly produced, so sappy, so disingenuous. It was obviously the product of zillions of high priced advisors. The Obamas have so much baggage with Wright/Flager/Ayers. This type of BS is like using cologne to cover up the fact you haven’t showered in days, it just makes it worse.
I’m still in awe. Even my husband was a little misty-eyed!
I purposely watched the speech on C-Span so I could avoid the commentary. I can’t even stomach the MSM anymore – I’d rather not be “in the know” than have to listen to some of those idiots.
She looked great and the wee ones were too adorable. My girls are too young to understand (2 and 7 weeks) but one day they will and I have Michelle and Barack to thank for that.
As a black woman, wife, mother, etc. she really made me proud. 🙂
This is just amazing to me! Where else whould you get a chance to see an alcoholic, womanizing, murderer just give a speech at a national political convention! In the words of the 1950s ad “Wow….THAT man has Moxie! ”
And, for extra added bonus points, we got an extreme radical left wing nut job who has never been proud of her country until her hubby got the nod, and who considers us a mean country.
You really have GOT to love the Democratic party for giving us a 1 2 punch on the first night.
Oh she nailed it, the problem is, I don’t buy it. But that’s just me, what do I know.
This whole election has made me question everything I believe in.It’s like 2+2 does not equal four anymore. I used to be able to distinguish between truth and fallacy but now, not so much. I used to be able to trust my gut, but everyone else is for everything my gut is against and I ask myself, is it just me?
I’ve lost “me” in all of this and have gained a sadness I can’t quite locate or explain. Something is just missing or maybe it is just out of place but the crowd keeps on cheering and I continue to stand alone.
Wow, that previous commenter is obviously not a regular reader of your website. I’m very impressed with Barack’s 11 years of experience, both in the senate and before working on Chicago’s Southside doing work some of us would never want to do. My gut feeling tells me he wants to do amazing things for this country. (I don’t believe in weirdos or pseudo-truths from Nostradamus and random stuff like that. Very laughable.) MICHELLE OBAMA DEFINITELY NAILED IT! She had me in tears talking about her family and Barack. They are such incredible role models. I just can’t wait for November, so I can go ahead and vote for Obama already. And I look forward to the next few days of the DNC! YES WE CAN!!!
Bella, watch out, the crazies are here!
“I don’t care what he says he is a muslim… He’s the devil… He is of middle eastern background… He is the charming charismatic mesmerizing speaker that the Bible speaks of as satan.. Around 3.5 years into it around election 2012 he’ll declare himself a world leader.”
Yeah ok, let’s all believe what YOU say! Because YOU are so credible and truthful.
Makes me sick.
Just read more of these comments…I don’t think these people know what blog they are posting on. They’re just surfing the net hoping to copy/paste their hateful message in as many different places as possible. Or do people like Mike in Antonio want advice on Kinky Curly Creme, too?
Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! OBama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama! Obama!
Wow. Just woke up all bleary eyed to see that hate speech posted on here. That’s fine if you saw the speech and didn’t fall head over heels for the family, but don’t you DARE come on my blog with curse words and lies. If you’ve got something negative to say, at least be intelligent and eloquent in your criticism. Take for example the other two negative comments above — from two gentlemen who I am willing to bet have never so much as laid eyes on this blog before. You are free to come on here and post your negative remarks — I’m sure you’ve got a busy day ahead of you because there are so many blogs to visit and post similar messages on. I swear, I keep seeing the same stones being thrown over and over again.
It must be pretty unnerving to see change in motion, if you’re scared of it.
I don’t THINK she nailed it – I KNOW she nailed it! I couldn’t take my eyes off of Michelle! Her hair was to die for, of course – make me wonder what AfroBella would say about it (LOL!) The whole thing was fantastic; I was teary all throughout. YES. WE. CAN. and YES. WE WILL!!!!! 😀 And for any haters out there – don’t try to steal the joy…
Now I am starting to laugh at some of these comments. Y’all should see the ones in my spam filter, talking about Barack being the devil and “I don’t care what he says he is a muslim.” And George up there, complaining that the speech was “obviously the product of zillions of high priced advisors.” Right, because John McCain’s staying up all night writing his own speeches on legal pads before he speaks. The Republicans don’t have any high priced advisors, of course.
Edesse, I do know others who feel the way you do. I don’t feel that way myself, but I know you’re not alone in your ambivalence. I’ve read several articles about people who are feeling peer pressured to vote or feel a certain way — it’s happening for both Obama and for McCain. It does make me happy that you post comments here reflecting your feelings, it tempers the lovefest with complexity.
Wow – So much hate so early in the morning. I’m still working on my 1st cup of coffee.
Bella – Mrs. O Killed it!!! It was like being a little kid in awe of watching Micheal Jackson moonwalking for the first time. She was awesome, her words poignant and from the heart. Watching her mom try not to cty made me cry. I’m so excited for this election.
Whoa! The crazies have come out!
What’s the matter? Scared? Of course you are. You can’t stand to see black people who AREN’T dysfunctional because it challenges the white supremacist narrative. In the absence of all other stereotypes you fall back on the “angry” box and now the “unpatriotic” box.
Two words: Eff off.
(dusts off hands)
I saw it online on MSNBC. I was SOOO proud of her. I cannot wait to hear Barack’s acceptance speech!
Hey Bella!! You just said the SAME things I blogged about regarding that beautiful dress and Michelle’s speech… Gotta love her!!!
My fellow Americans…it doesn’t matter what some or all of these racists who post on the different blogs say, the American poor and middle class now realize the Real Issues and they are: 8 years of Republican mismanagement of the Iraq War…now the Iraq government wants a timeline (give us the oil money, your soldiers and get out;…mismanagement of Katrina–5 day late response that killed many people…rising oil, food and production prices; unemployment and job lost; less government that has caused more government corporate bailouts…IndyMac Bank; Bears Stearn; other banks etc.; 1/2 trillion dollar deficits on paper and probably higher; corruption in the Attorney General’s office; The “No Child Left Behind” fiasco where some cities have equal or more high dropouts than graduates; overseas problems Iraq/Afghanistan/Russia/Iran/ Venezuela …maybe Pakistan,China in the future……….
These are just some of the issues affecting Americans today…so if these pundits spew race than attack them on their one issue and let your associates see that there are a multitude of issues that Republicans have failed to respond as it relates to everyday problems for Americans including Health care..
Whoa–wasn’t prepared for the random hate posted on this site ( but LMAO @ the comment about Mike wanting advice for Kinky Curling Creme). I just want to simply say that I *heart* Michelle Obama. Can I vote for her for something?
Wow. It never ceases to amaze me that people who are so against Obama are too ignorant to get the actual facts on this man,his family, and his political experience. It’s so totally ridiculous how they spew garbage on as many sites as possible. I’d rather these folks be honest and state they’re not voting for Obama because of his race. (I also realize they’d still have a problem if the presumptive nominee was Hillary Rodham Clinton, or any other person who didn’t fit the traditonal mold of what a president should look in their minds, hint, hint: older White man). I do understand the current fear…afraid of a strong people made in the true image of God (since these nuts want to hide behind the Bible). Our race is the cradle of all mankind, and we have every single genetic marker to prove it (multi-racial from day one or what they like to call exotic). If he was a Muslim, I’d still vote for him. Christians can be such hypocrites. Christian missionary groups telling others their way of worship is wrong. The KKK uses several biblical verses to further their cause. “I imagine one of the reasons people cling to their hates so stubbornly is because they sense, once hate is gone, they will be forced to deal with pain.” That’s a quote from James Baldwin. Stop visiting websites giving us your crappy opinions without any proof to your false claims. You’re dealing with people who actually think, so keep it moving. Sorry Bella, I’m getting back on subject now. Of course Michelle handled things with complete elegance and grace. This woman represents for all women trying to be the wife, the mother, the career woman, etc. She is what America represents. This is the country where all people have the opportunity to make nothing into something wonderful. Unfortunately, the past eight years drastically changed that dream. I have confidence that the Democrats will become united (plus they’ll be Reublicans, Independents, and other political parties involved). All the real and imagined petty differences within the Democratic party are so small and insignifcant compared to coming together to fix our real problems: education, jobs, gas, the environment, pro choice, veterans benefits, social security, justice, war, health care, etc. So if you’re a person who wants to start making things better, then get involved. This is what the Obama campaign is all about. It’s time for government to work from the bottom up. This means you don’t have the right to complain if you sit back and do nothing. Government doesn’t belong to the President alone, it belongs to the people. HRC supporters, I hope you’ll weigh your options: Barack or more of the same Bush policies by voting for McCain. On that note, I’m going to start getting my political news from C-Span because all the other stations are just so biased. If I want drama, I’ll watch a soap opera.
I thought she did great, last night! She looked great and her message was clear. From her understated elegance to her class and grace. Definitely an inspiring woman. I wonder if Cindy McCain will speak at the RNC.
I thought she was amazing, inspiring, sincere, and, yes, gorgeous. I was inclined to like Michelle Obama already, but seeing her speak so movingly last night really sealed it. Couldn’t agree more with your post.
Michelle Obama did a great job. I was telling my husband at some points she almost sounded like a spoken word artist though. LOL What’s great about the Obamas is that you really get the sense that they love AND like eachother very much. Obviously that’s not a reason to make someone president, but it is the cherry on top of a very engaging, experienced, positive candidate who I believe will make a great president. Whatever people may think of Obama, his ability to re-energize Americans about politics is undeniable.
Fear can bring out the ugliness in all of us. I pray that this country can move past the old way of doing things and start looking at the similarites and appreciating the differences. My gosh, can we think outside the box, someone doesn’t have to look like you in order to want to do right by you. Go Obama and Michelle in 08′ and beyond. A change is coming, a good change!!
She NAILED it ! The story that she told resonated with me and my family. I made sure that my husband and 2 children (15 and 19 – my son is voting in his first election this yr!!) All watched the coverage. It is amazing to hear the pundits tear apart Michelle’s story/life.
The hate speech on the blog comes as no surprise to me – this type of thing will always exists amongst those that are afraid of change.
I do understand all those that are still ambivalent – there are somethings about Obama that I do not agree with , but I do believe that my financial future and the future of my children will have a better outcome w/ Obama in office than McCain.
BTW – Michelle was impeccably attired as usual
Be prepared – it’s going to be a LONG 70 days until the election!
No matter how she presents herself to America, we will always remember her with anger issues and hatred. We don’t need a Muslim president Hussein Obama with a crazy wife in the White House.
Acct, which is it? Is he Muslim, or is he Christian with a crazy pastor? And is John McCain really such a better choice? What makes his wife NOT crazy, but causes you to describe Michelle as such? Inquiring minds really want to know.
These comments are cracking me up!
Wow, the haters are coming out all over. Anyway, Michelle did wonderful!! I was very proud.
Oh she definitely nailed it! I am so proud to be me!! I totally HEART Michelle Obama. Her poise and diplomacy are what America needs right now. She is the First Lady of this country. She embodies America and what it SHOULD look like for African American women. She gives me hope. Realistic hope. When I saw the women in the audience wiping their faces, I knew they felt the same way I did. It’s the hope that the country needs right now.
My hat is off to her for being who she is and not allowing anyone — haters, naysayers, unbelievers — to change who she is. Many of us can take a lesson from her. I have.
One word: Phenomenal.
She did an excellent job and I am so proud. I have admired her for awhile for a number of reasons and I definitely look up to her. Barack and Michelle have such a beautiful black family and it is refreshing to see it. I was overwhelmed with emotion last night so I can’t even imagine how i’m going to feel Thursday when Barack speaks. Whew!
Go Michelle!!!….*cough couch* Excuse me! I mean Go Our Next First Lady!!!
bella,
this just goes to show that you are doing the right things here on your blog. the haterade that people seemed to have for dinner last night is coming out because this is the time that people are showing their true colors. There is no ignorance to hide behind anymore. It’s put up or shut up. Quite honestly, either you’re about change and progress or you’re not.
We are the people we have been waiting for and bella, kudos for you for keeping it real.
Michelle is a good speaker, but the content of her speech seemed very scripted, and probably written by a crack team of speech writers. I’m sure she rehearsed it for several days. The speech said all the right things, but was hardly recognizable from her unscripted words spoken over several years … like “America is a mean country’ … ‘In my adult life, I’ve never been proud to be an American until now” … and does not reflect the many years as the follower of Jeremiah Wright’s black liberation philosophy. Michele’s speech more accurately resembles an expedient attempt at damage control by way of an immediate severe, and not very believable magical massive makeover. Furthermore, Barack and Teddy, who would like you to believe they are above reproach, have been elevated to sacred cow status. Sorry about Ted Kennedy’s illness, but Mary Joe Kopechne’s life was snuffed out at age 29 … so, you might want to revisit: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Jo_Kopechne
I actually like Michelle more than Barack. She did do an awesome job once she stopped reading the teleprompter and spoke from the heart. I would love to see her as President. However, I feel the post by Edesse. I’m so tired of all of this, too…..all this campaigning…I want to beleive in HOPE (not in a man, but in the truest sense of the word), but I’m so jaded now. I will of course vote for Barack b/c what choice do I have: McCain or not voting? and neither of those are viable options for me….
but do I really believe a change is going to come? NO…sad to say, but he’s going to have to sell his soul once he gets this position. he’s already had to in little spurts, so it’s going to continue.
it really sickens me how much politics is a game- all of shuckin’ and jivin’ that has to be done to appease financial backers in this country (read: BIG BUSINESS). It doesn’t make sense. I was listening to a show on npr this monring on my way to work, Democracy NOW. Did anyone know that the company that owns Captain Morgan (yes, the rum) is one of the major financial sponors of both the democratic and republican conventions? WTH?! what is wrong with that picture….an alcohol co. backing national political events….just wrong….anyway, I know I’m digressing from the original topic of AFROBELLA’s post….sorry. I’m just so frustrated by all of this……
Oh and one last thing, who else gave some side eye to Michelle’s brother when he was introducing her talking about she somehow managed to memorize every episode of the “Brady Bunch?” even though they were only allowed 1 hour of tv a day. I find that soooo hard to believe…but to appease the masses (read: White People) that crap had to be said….UGH!!!!
I think she executed the speech well.
Oh, and to answer your question Bella, she knocked that one out of the park! Especially when she talked about how her Dad had to get up a little earlier to start his day because of the Multiple Sclerosis, and how he used to canes to make it across the room to kiss his wife. You can’t fabricate stuff like that. It was beautiful.
Gina and to the other person earlier who mentioned speechwriters, what political speech is made without a team of excellent speechwriters? We live in a time when there are teleprompters and teams of advisors behind the scene on both sides of the political lines. you act like John McCan’t and his wife speak from the heart and off the cuff in every speech they make. i won’t even bother to bring up her pill popping history, you choose to cast michelle obama as some kind of unpatriotic militant but at least she never stole from a charity to fund a drug habit.
ted kennedy will have to deal with the blood on his hands when he reaches the pearly gates. Only God can judge him. Same goes for Laura Bush
http://www.snopes.com/politics/bush/laura.asp
i thought it was awesome watching their whole family interact together. thought i will admit i got kinda jealous when barack told michelle she was cute. 🙁 what about me, barack?? WHAT ABOUT MEEE??!
i got over it though. 🙂
Oh yeah you are right. She totally nailed it. I loved it, especially the end when Barack came out and you saw them interacting as a family. *gush* i totally feel in love with the Obamas all over again last night.
and these haters in your comment box are killing me.
peace,
e.
Hey,
Thank you all for your kind words and the ability to listen to me without attacking me.
Oh, she nailed it!
And LOL at the trolls who randomly pop up on sites that are not *ahem* “for them.” Seriously? Mike and George? Wow.
It’s a sad day when people who are real and genuine can’t be respected as such. Michelle did a wonderful job. Yes, the speech was written and rehearsed as it should’ve been. It was only as good as the woman who read it and Michelle ain’t “The Closer” for nothing. She nailed it and as a Black Woman I am proud of her and the Obama family.
Growing up, I’ve had wonderful role models in my mother and older sisters and in close friends that I’ve grown up with. I’ve also had heroes like FloJo who, with her beauty and talent, made me want to be just like her as I pursued track in school. But in this election, I’ve added another hero/role model to my list. I first saw Michelle Obama speak last summer and I felt a strong sense of inspiration to do better. She made me feel like nothing is better than devoting your life to the service of others and I was truly inspired by her. Last night she did it again! Unfortunately, the online press is not acknowledging her greatness. But I’m glad you are Bella! Michelle is someone to be praised!
Wow, Bella! The hate/crazy factor is ridiculous!!!
Anyhoo, I really enjoyed her speech! I thought that she represented well! I thought that she brought it well!
I will definitely check things on C-Span, as Kinky Twists did, from here on out! The ignorant remarks are starting to get to me. I really admire the class that the Obamas have ’cause if it were me… I don’t know…
Peace
Funny that we don’t always give credit where credit is due. Why can’t someone, even if you don’t agree with another’s politics and/or choices, be steadfast enough in their positions to congratulate someone else? Just another area where change is needed.
Anyway, I was moved by Michelle’s speech, the way she presented it and her overall poise. She is truly a woman to look up to, not because she is married to Barak Obama but because she is accomplished in her own right.
Two things stood out for me. The word compassion was used a lot. We just don’t see compassion anymore. The other thing about Michelle O. was the fact that her parents talked to her about coming back to her community after college. What does that say about her character? For me, it speaks volumes.
The DemoCRAPic Convention – A purely disgusting gathering of repugnant puke if I ever saw one. Kennedy(s), Pelosi and their ilk all spouting and frothing at the mouth and not a bit of shame forthcoming. This is the biggest bunch of losers and deceivers ever to walk the halls of
Congress. God help the United States because it surely won’t be coming from the demoCRAPS.
Hey frem — will it come from the RepubliCAN’TS? Who have created a mess of this country’s foreign policy, laws, and economy over the last 8 years? You have so much to be proud of…
every time I watch Bush TRY to give a speech, I blame people like you that he’s been running the ship into the ground.
Michelle is amazing, and I coudn’t think of a better first lady.
love your blog btw, I read it everyday:)
warm greetings, hanna (norway)
I’m soooo proud of Michelle Obama. There is no precedent for who she is and what she is doing. What a tremendous, tremendous model for all of us.
And, I would have had a heart attack giving my littlest a mic in front of all those people- but clearly those girls have been raised right.
I think Mrs. O should have talked more to the people at the event. Much of the time it seemed like an obligational speech where she had to look into the camera and solicit money like Sally Struthers way back when. She did a good job overall, though. It’s laughable that people say she didn’t do enough to prove her love for America. This country should prove to people like HER that her values of respect and equality are more than a dream. With people already plotting to kill her husband at the convention, that should take lots of convincing.
Hey Idjit – We are RepubliCANS – At least we have the balls to go into the fray and wipe out a few. Can’t say that about the DemoCRAPS. All they are good for is talking (talk is cheap). I’d like to see them (especially that wipe ass Pelosi) talk bin Laden into surrendering or at least not attack the U.S. again (which will happen if the D’s win the election).
Hmmmm. How sad is it that you first comment on “her dress, her makeup”? I found her speech to be boring, dry, lackluster drivel.
I have to echo Denise and Edessdesigns. I really like Michelle Obama and don’t hate on Barack either…I’m just tired of campaigning and it has barely started. I love that Barack is a black man and that in itself represents change, but the rest of his promises for change and what he will be able to realistically do for this country will not change much. Maybe it’s me, and maybe I’m just jaded, but really a president cannot change all that much do to the way our government is set up. What I would love to happen is that his presidency change some of the existing attitudes in this country and have a real honest to goodness healthcare system set up. I don’t think he would be able to change much else, but if we get the first and some steps made towards the second I would be pleased as punch.
Oh she definitely nailed it! I only watched to see her speech. I cried during the video tribute. I also cried when she talked about Barack driving her home after giving birth. The tribute and the speech were really touching. I liked her before but I had never actually heard one of her speeches. She seems so down to earth I can’t understand how anyone can say they are elitists. She seems like an amazing woman.
Yes she looked gorgeous too. I don’t usually like green but it was the perfect colour on her. I might try on something green the next time I go shopping just because it looked so nice on her. She was great. I do love her and her whole family.
@ Bathory:
A blog (AKA “web-LOG”) is simply a web transcript based on personal opinion. Oh and just in case you haven’t noticed- this is a blog mainly dedicated to African American BEAUTY, so why wouldn’t Bella FIRST comment on her dress and makeup??
Thanks for pointing that out to Bathory, Cindy — I am guessing these anti-Obama folks don’t even know which blog they’re commenting on. Of course I admired her dress and her makeup, Afrobella is all about black beauty! And Michelle Obama epitomized that last night.
Great TV show, but when will we see the real Michelle, black power, fist bumping, hate America, etc.
I teared up during her speech. She did an amazing job and, Sasha, OMG she broke my heart with how precocious and poised she is (both daughters, actually). I love the Obamas. I wish Michelle and Barack would adopt me. Is 26 too old for adoption? lol
She nailed it to the wall, yes she did. All-american family, christian values, common sense…what more could America want? gObama!
Michelle was pretty awesome, but then again, she’s just an impressive woman. Of course though, that’s what scares so many people. It’s the Hilary situation all over again. The fact that Michelle is not white or a member of the existing political establishment means that she will continue to be resented by lots of angry people who deep in their hearts know that she’s a better person then they are.
Gina… I know that it’s already been said, but there are probably no major politicians without speech writers. The pathetic thing is how horrible some of them still sound with all the help (cough… W). And frem…. where should I begin? Clearly you have some issues… perhaps you were neglected as a child. I don’t know. But how will bin Laden be able to attack the U.S. with the Democrats in office. There will be no Republicans in power to help facilitate his acts of terror. And how dare you call any Democrat a deceiver with the piece of lying garbage we currently have running our country (effectively into the ground – just like all his past business ventures – but I digress). How many different reasons has he given for the Iraq fiasco/occupation/oil grab? I think we’re currently on number four. But since most Republicans are very content to put their blind (read: foolish) faith in anything that sparks the slightest bit of fear in their hearts, I’m not surprised that they continue to buy whatever he’s pushing. I just feel sorry for people with such a pathetically narrow view of the world, such as yourself.
And by the way frem… check your history. I’m fairly certain that plenty of Democrat leaders have gone to war to “wipe out a few.” FDR and WWII… JFK and Vietnam. Of course, if you really view war so casually, why don’t you enlist and head over to Iraq or Afghanistan. Then you can find out first hand how we’ve completely bungled both situations.
I think Michelle Obama did a lovely job last night! She was graceful, poised, elegant, and clear in her love for her husband.
For the record, IMHO, I absolutely adore seeing Michelle and Barack together because they appear to be absolutely in love. Bill & Hill always looked like business partners forced to hold hands. George and Laura appear contrived. This isn’t to say they don’t love each other, but wow… this is different. Anyway…
You’re right, Bella, she was GORGEOUS (and so were the little ones–I cheered when they came out!). At times I think her speech did sound slightly scripted, but that’s true of most speeches by most people. Overall, I found her speech endearing, polished, smart and real all at the same time. She’s an incredible speaker with poise and STYLE, which is something we’ve been missing from the first ladies of the last 16 years. You’d think with all that presidential clout they could get help on shopping trips. Stacy London and Clinton Kelly. Tim Gunn. Kimora Lee. Somebody, ANYBODY.
I am curious about all those who feel jaded about the political process or think that a president can’t change much. Do you still express your opinions by voting? Have you ever been excited about anyone? If you never have, then that’s pretty sad. I can only speak for myself when I say I’ve voted before, but this is the first time that I’m VOTING FOR SOMEONE and not AGAINST SOMEONE ELSE and that is an EXCITING FEELING.
The Obamas have worked hard at school & in their jobs to get where they are without losing their roots. McCain married into where he is by ditching his first wife. As a non-American and living in the Caribbean I have always noticed that Americans of all colours and classes but especially White Americans can’t believe and appreciate that there are many educated black,Hispanic and ethnic Americans who can afford to buy lovely things,live in big houses and aspire to not only live the American Dream BUT to run for the highest Public Office in the land.
I congratulate the bloggers & Afrobella for keeping your cool when responding to some of the comments made on this post.
Oh she nailed it! She was smart, strong, beautiful, amazing, like so many of us Afrobellas in the world. Go Michelle! GObama!
Hey Kweenie, I’ve voted in every presidential election and a few of the congressional as well as for my Mayor (both in the primaries and in the actual election). But the reality is, at the end of the day, Obama is another politician. I’m excited for the changes he brings by simply being who he is. It’s government in general that I’m disenchanted with, if that makes any sense.
I checked this blog last night, because i was anticipating Bella’s response of Michelle’s speech from the DNC. I thought it was wonderful that the first three comments were all about supporting Michelle Obama and praising her. Now, suddenly, there are all of these terrible and hateful–and unfounded–comments. It makes me very sad that there are people out there who view this potential for change as something evil.
Watching the convention last night, I felt my heart swell. I felt wildly proud to be an American, in a way that I haven’t really experienced before. I felt lucky to be able to have the opportunity to help make a change in this country. Watching all of those people last night with hope in their eyes made me realize that this is history that we are all a part of, and that this is the kind of freedom that my parents–and so many other families–dreamed of when they came to this country. America isn’t about Democrats or Republicans, about house speakers or party lines. It’s about freedom. The freedom to choose, the freedom to change.
So yes, I think Michelle Obama nailed it. Because that’s what we as Americans really need to discuss–not who’s party is better, but that we can–and will–choose to do the right thing.
Christine- your answer is exactly what I wanted to say back to Kweenie’s question about whether I vote. Kweenie- I do vote and will continue to do so b/c it’s a privilege that my ancestors died for me to have, so I don’t take it lightly. What I think those of us who are saying we’re a little jaded or leary of everything is that we heard promises of change before. I personally just get disenchanted by politics at least at the national level. It has particularly been sad to me over the last eight years and I blame both parties for that…but anyway, yes, on November I will be voting for Barack Obama, however not with the same level of enthusiasm you will be.
Kweenie:
I have voted in every election and plan to vote in this one as well but I don’t like my choices and will most likely have to vote based on everything other than what matters to me.
The soul searching that has come about because of these elections has everything and absolutely nothing to do with Obama. I spent last summer working for a theater company. I was an assistant to the stage set designer and my duties were to basically arrange the sets for a host of plays that would be shown there. I tell you, it was an eye-opening experience that has led me to how I think today.
Stage sets are purposefully random. Although the audience may never actually recall the bamboo bowl filled with oranges sitting on the kitchen table, or the “Dwell” magazine nesting in the magazine rack. These specific items were strategically placed there to subliminally craft the mood of the play.
This is what these speeches and conventions and polls and attack ads are, carefully selected sound bites to satiate the crowd. My experience has taught me to read between the lines.
So, I am no longer excited by politics. My vote is a careful dance between bad and worst. Nothing more and nothing less.
It worked. I’m not in the camp of the disaffected or disillusioned here because I don’t come to this with expectations of integrity on behalf of the overwhelming majority of players. We’re not less virtuous than before, but we do have media access and use that creates an overt and giant meta-awareness in which the newsmakers aren’t news but rather the news of the news of the news of the newsmakers is news.
And we the voters are the prima donnas. I heard folks from Iowa to the coasts saying stuff like, “He hasn’t come to my town.” or “He doesn’t seem like me.” Man, I sure don’t want a President that has time to shake every hand or to be like everybody in the country. I’d shake his hand, but would sure be more comfortable with him/her solving world problems and not eating pancakes in every diner to prove his humanity to me.
But.. that’s the playing field.
I’m not wholly cynical as to believe that the ideal of a statesman or stateswoman is dead. We haven’t had one in forever. In the meantime, I still leave that door open for Obama. So far he looks like he could be a real statesman.
Certain fans do have me a bit cynical, though, celebrating Obama to the detriment of the very campaign to get him in. I write about that as: “Sycophants. Sick of Ants… Sick Of Fans (of Obama)” I invite the visit to that: http://tinyurl.com/sickOfans
Sigh…where does one begin?
Bella, you’ve got the right wingies coming out to post?! Now you know you’ve made it gyrl!!!!
First, big ups to Michelle. Overall, she did well. Some of it was a little sappy, but all in all, it was heartfelt, regardless of who wrote the actual words 😉 Now, when she brought the girls out & they talked to Barack, that was a great moment to me. To see this well functioning, high-achieving Black family interact in a loving way for all the world to see, that gave me goosebumps. Seeing Barack & Michelle with their 2 little girls, who have a very good chance of living in the White House come next year, that made me proud as hell. Scripted speech be damned!
To Kweenie & Brokey McPoverty – LOL! Funny comments from you both. Just imagining these dudes using Kinky Curly Creme makes me laugh hard…
But yo, DON’T SLEEP. Quiet is kept, a HELL of a lot of people feel just like George, Frem & Mike In San Antonio do, sad but oh so true. We still have a LOT of work to do until November. We have to stay vigilant until this thing is done ya’ll, for real, for real.
To Denise, Edesse, Christine & the others who have doubts about the validity & authenticity of politicians & this whole process – You’re right. It is a game. It is a hell of a beast, this presidential election process. And yes, even if he’s elected, Barack couldn’t possibly begin to magically change overnight some of these blights on our nation that have been going on for centuries.
But he can set about bringing in the right attitude & atmosphere in DC that will be more conducive to change going forward. A more open receptive environment where we, the people, can start to effectively address the issues & start bringing about the changes we want to see in our world.
See, this is what you don’t get, change starts with YOU!! With US!!! Not Barack!
So you know what? Get up & educate yourself, & start being a part of the process instead of sitting on the sidelines complaining about how wrong & fake or contrived everything is. Get up & go do something about it if you don’t like it!
When you start using that type of language about how “everything” is phony or whatever, & what difference does it make cause it’s all a “game”, while that may have some validity, it’s just a copout. All that talk about being “jaded”, it’s an excuse. Stop it! It’s defeatist language & it gets no play in my ride. I can’t listen to it for long.
And if you’re already doing something, then keep on doing it & do it harder. That’s how you get things to change for the better!
I stumbled into working as a community activist/grassroots organizer in Chicago, about 10 years ago, and that is one thing that I learned, beyond a shadow of a doubt. You have to be the change that you want to see. Corny, but real shit.
For example, AIDS in the Black community is a big concern of mine, so you know what I do? I take the time to go volunteer at a local non-profit that assists women of color either at high risk or living with the disease. I became educated about the facts, & occasionally go out & give educational sessions etc., on the facts. It makes a difference. On holidays, I go feed the homeless with my church. I make sure to vote. When there is a candidate that I truly support (Obama!), I give my time & funds if I have them to try to help that individual get elected into office. ETC, ETC…
The point I’m trying to make is, look at yourself first. We can’t wait on someone else to do it for us! Cause with that attitude, you’re going to always be very dissatisfied with the results. Imagine if we all did even one little thing to further a cause that we believed in. It would be incredible.
No, Barack isn’t the Messiah, he’s just a man. You don’t have to take Barack for anything other than what he is, a politician & a vessel that people have been able to channel their hopes & dreams into. For real, on top of his qualifications, I think one of his strongest appeals has been the fact that he’s just able to embody & verbalize what so many of us dare to hope for in our wildest dreams…
To Edesse – See above comments, but still, that whole “I don’t know what is real” stuff that you seem so fond of spouting, that is just so tired, you’ve said it before in other posts & I’m tired of reading it. Posts, I might add, where you insisted on defending HRC & claiming that you identified with her…but anyways… And since when does 2+2 not equal 4 anymore?! Why do you need anyone but yourself to tell you what to believe in???? You’ve lost yourself in all of what??? What is with that drama? I’m sorry, but it’s just something about your posts on these issues that bugs the hell outta me.
I’m out…
My boss who is a staunch Republican says to me that he doesn’t want him in office and said that he views Obama’s kids as out of control. WTF??
…i think the best thing is that the impact of a classic black woman, a strong Michelle, goes well beyond us. unfortunately many parts of the world (including the U.S.) still need to see this type of black woman to believe she is possible. The Obamas are bringing new conversation to the world, e.g. LA times about black Iraquis: http://tinyurl.com/black-iraquis
She brought me to tears! Michelle Obama is an Icon; she is my role model, and a fabulous one at that.
And the Obama girls are ADORABLE!!!
flygyrl72:
I’m not asking you to understand anything about me and quite frankly I am happy that you are tired of me–I take that as a validation of sorts as you have the tendency to make a caricature out of any post that does not sit well with you. You read and yet you don’t comprehend. You assume a lot but know very little thus your response to me has no value. And I find it odd that you may think that it does.
You are self-righteous to a fault and lack the capacity to see beyond…well..yourself–as if someone somewhere ordained your diatribe as the truth, the way, and the light.
I say what I feel but always leave myself open to dialogs and am more than willing to go back to the drawing board if I find that I was wrong. You can’t. So, if you are going to get bugged by someone, by all means take a look in the mirror, you are your own worst enemy.
…by the way, amen to what flygirl72 said…
I second you fully: if you have a problem with something, don’t sit on your ass, get out there and do something!
Simply Beautiful.
Michelle is stunning and fierce. Why is she such a threat? The best thing I can do is turn off my TV and vote in November. The media coverage is despicable, deplorable, and downright scathing.
You’re right, I read it & I don’t comprehend why you fill your posts with dramatic nonsense instead of sticking to the facts. I think you write a bunch of crap, and you never have once explained anything behind your reasoning or said what you really stand for. You just come on here & try to hate on Obama &, this time, the whole political process. Seriously, this isn’t the first time. Everytime Bella has posted about Barack, you come on here with some half-assed negative tripe. It’s never valid,it’s never fleshed out. Just always about how you feel distrustful of him, or politicians, or whatever. How you have no hope left in the world, blah, blah. You’re so disillusioned, boo-hoo-hoo… YOU SAY THE SAME THING EVERY TIME. And I’m callin you on it.
You see, Christine & Denise explained their cynicism & while I don’t agree, they did it in a way that makes sense. The normal way.
So, you tell Kweenie that you’re going to vote, “based on everything other than what matters” to you?! Ummm…WTF matters to you, then?! Healthcare doesn’t matter to you? The economy (ms. so-called economics major) doesn’t matter to you?! The war in Iraq doesn’t matter to you?! That is all stuff that is on the table in this election, & these candidates are worlds apart on these issues & the way we vote is going to decide a lot of things. It’s crucial.
So yeah…when you make statements like that, combined with stuff about soul-searching that has “everything but absolutely nothing to do with Obama”, what?! What does that even mean?
I don’t have to cariciature you. You wrote it! It’s right there for all to see. Trust. You’re hilarious.
For the record, besides Nicola, you’re the only other poster that I’ve disagreed with so vehemently. I don’t normally like to aggressively challenge people in an open dialogue like this. It’s a free country, you’ve a right to your opinions. But, I have a big problem with how you’ve posted on here, especially when it comes to Barack, so I’m just putting it out there.
I’m just saying, back up your positions sometimes, and say something NEW. Please, “go back to the drawing board.” WE GET IT ALREADY, you’re disillusioned, this election has made you question mankind, nothing makes sense anymore, etc., etc. NEXT!!!
Okay….we do have choices. Let’s see, we could vote for a servant of our country who while he was held in Vietnam his wife was involved in a almost life shattering car accident. When he returned home, Ross Pierot had to come to her rescue to help pay her medical bills, because hubby was womanizing a younger, RICHER woman, whom he soon married. Now he wants to be president, but he can’t remember how many homes he and his wife own. Ah no….not my choice!!! Can’t depend on your memory as you approach your 7_ birthday! LOL
OBAMA IN 2008!!!
Oh no, ladies. I just settled down to write tomorrow’s post and noticed this drama popping off.
Flygyrl, you’re passionate and expressive and I love when you comment. Edesse, you’re contemplative and eloquent and I love when you comment. Both of you have been reading and dropping knowledge here for a while now, and I always look forward to hearing what both of you have to say. I hate to see this discourse become so confrontational, so personal. This is part of why I’ve been avoiding political posts — things quickly become so heated and negative. I’m certainly guilty of it myself, and I’m trying so hard not to be that way in my real life and online. Please join me. Come on, bellas. That is not what this blog is meant to be about.
Okay. Just watched Hillary’s speech. Anyone notice how many times the camera panned to Michelle. I think someone’s trying to start something. “OMG she doesn’t smile like a clown through Hil’s speech. She hates America”.
I liked her speech. She really let me down with her campaign, but that speech was pretty good.
Also, Michelle looks flawless again.
A new day is dawning in America!!!!!! Barack and Michelle Obama are on their way to the White House, and deservedly so. It won’t be an easy road, but it has never been easy for the first African-Americans to do ANYTHING in this nation. But by God’s grace, it will happen!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
To all the racists who would rather cling to their hate than deal with their pain — the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This nation is great b/c it gives an opportunity to ALL people, black or brown or white or whatever, to follow their dreams. Stop trying to keep this country a land for the free, brave, and white. You hurt yourselves when you try to hurt us. That is the lesson of slavery, Jim Crow, and the continued racial division that your greed, pain, and sin won’t let you give up. God help your soul, and God save this great nation!
P.S. To the guy who asked when you would see the “real” Michelle — you saw it, friend! She doesn’t fit your or the media’s agenda of what black women are, you know…welfare moms, baby’s mommas, and video vixens. In 2008, is there room for one more? Is there room for intelligent, classy, elegant, and accomplished black women who are exactly what they seem? If not, that’s the fault of your own conscience and the sin of this great nation.
Oh Bella, you know I love you & your blog, and God, you know how to word diplomatically,
But c’mon, this is real stuff though. And it’s a public forum, so there’s gonna be disagreements, we can’t all play nice all the time.
I think it’s a healthy discussion. I’m not trying to call her out her name or be ghetto, or seriously rude, I don’t know her like that, I only know what she has written here over the months. But I am being frank. I don’t think that Edesse has ever given a clear, concise explanation behind some of the sentiments that she has repeatedly expressed on this blog. There has been a pattern here.
Is that so wrong to voice that? I just wanted to challenge her on these viewpoints to see if she had anything deeper to say for herself.
And you shouldn’t even hesitate to post political items, cause it happens, sometimes it’s nice, sometimes not so nice, c’est la vie, eh?
But okay, I’ll stop. Seriously, if that’s what you want. Kum-ba-yah & all that good stuff.
I watched Hilary’s speech too. Needless to say, still skeptical! I don’t trust her as far as I could throw her. Anytime she talked about supporting Barack going forward, she looked almost in pain, lukewarm at best. Not really believable at all. The whole “No way, no how, no McCain” thing was catchy though. Still, the only time she warmed up & said things with gusto is when she started talking about all the reasons she ran for President & how she’ll be around in the future, for the little man. She only was heartfelt when she was talking about herself. Basically, campaigning for 2012. I swear, butter wouldn’t melt in that broad’s mouth… And don’t get me started on Billy Boy, with his fake, I’m on the verge of tears look that he has perfected over the years…they both make me gag.
But yeah, Ms. Michelle did look good too! Her makeup was stunning. It was a good look!
That’s true flygirl. She was laying the groundwork for her next run, but at least she called out all her supporters who claimed they would vote for McCain instead.
On another note, is it possible to do a post about Michelle Obama’s makeup? I would like to know what lipstick that is.
And finally I would like to curse Bella for my inability to sleep tonight. Your insomnia is catching 🙂
Hillary Rodham Clinton gives her big speech on 88th anniversary of the women’s suffrage movement. No how, no way, no McCain! HRC said it’s time to unite our party and get behind Obama so we can win the fight against McCain. Are you listening HRC supporters? It’s time to come back home. “We don’t need four more years of the last eight years. I understand how HRC supporters had to go through the five stages of grief: denial & isolation, anger, bargaining, depression, depression and acception. Now it’s time for renewal. The real fight isn’t about Clinton or Obama, but about making things better for all humans on the face of this Earth. Trust me, these two people are going to fight for the people…McCain uhhhhmmmn, not so much. He has to remember that how many houses he has first, and stop being such a noun, verb and a P.O.W.
My only “What in the Ham Sammich” moment (because I watched the speech on MSNBC) was when an African American female was still so dead set against voting for Obama because he lacks experience in her mind. That really saddened me because it had me thinking was she one of the women HRC called out asking them did you really just do this for me? I’m like wow! Did some people think the same think about MLK…like dang he can’t be telling us how to use a non-violent movement to gain our equal rights. He was younger than Obama, and you can’t deny that MLK definitely achieved something larger than any person ever thought was possible. Experience trumps sound judgement and common sense any day. I guess you’ll always have naysayers. SMH I was relieved that she at least she would never vote for McCain. I wish I had her number, email addie or something because I’d be bugging her until she saw the light beacause the views of HRC & Obama are pretty close. Don’t let McCain fool you…the Democratic Party isn’t perfect, but we’re a party more for the rights of all people and not the ones that just have, power, prestige and money.
I loved Michelle in her green dress Monday night. Michelle is our Jackie O. Hillary that tangerine was definitely your power color. I’m not always feeling her pants suits, but she really made me do a double take with the color choice. Work it ladies.
LB, I have to agree. Hilary & Chelsea both looked good. She worked that coral pantsuit. It looked very nice on her. She looks better now than she ever has…on the outside anyways…;-)
Yes, She nailed it!
Hey flygyrl — I know, I know, and I agree with you — these are deep issues that we need to discuss. It ain’t always gonna be pretty — Lord knows I’ve learned a lot from writing and researching these political posts. But I am really trying to do what Michelle said in her speech, “treat people with dignity and respect, even if you don’t know them, and even if you don’t agree with them.” I know this forum for discussion can’t be all lovefest all the time, but I didn’t want to see this get too personal or too heated. I’ve lost friends in my real life over this election race, and I don’t want to see that happen again here on Afrobella.
kum ba yah m’Lord… kum ba yah….
I heart Michelle and the Obamas. Also, I love her eyebrows.
On a more serious note, she’s inspired me to volunteer on the Obama/Biden campaign.
YES WE CAN!
Hey Bella did you see this woman on CNN I just want to give her the idiot of the day award! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ct6p-3kVlX8
I know someone in her life hurt her bad but it wasn’t Obama.
Simply awesome speech!
Michelle, aka Ms. O, aka soon to be First Lady did a phenomenal job! I would vote for HER for Pres in 2012!
Flygirl72:
Exactly what did you call me out on? Please refresh my memory. You, once again, make a lot of noise, but fail to say anything.
My thoughts are my thoughts and unless you have first hand knowledge about how this election process has changed me personally, I say kick rocks.
What I contribute to Afrobella are my thoughts–the key words are “My” and “Thoughts”. I never say I am right and I am more than willing to figure out where I am wrong. You, on the other hand just like to make noise and label things the way you want to label them instead of trying to understand where the person is coming from.
Remember simple math: Faulty assumptions lead to faulty logic.
Awesome, amazing speech but the dress to me was old ladyish. I loved the off white dress she wore last night better.
More on Michelle’s dress (I can see enough has been said about the speech already): From Unbeige.com:
Michelle Obama is on the front pages of scores of newspapers after her speech at the Democratic Convention. Many have raved about her dolmain-sleeve dress which is by Chicago fashion designer Maria Pinto, who has opened a new store in Chicago’s West Loop this month. Here’s what the Los Angeles Times’ Elizabeth Snead wrote: “First off, the dress, thankfully not a skirt suit, was sleek and minimal. The hem length was appropriate, but not dumpy. It had a flattering V-neck with three quarter-length sleeves that made Michelle’s broad shoulders and strong arms look less threatening. And the teal blue color coordinated nicely with the blue/violet hues of her daughters’s outfits.” Amen.
We’re thinking Obama has finally made Pinto, a long-time mainstay in the Windy City design community, a national name in households across the nation. It’s about time that Cynthia Rowley, another Illinois fashion designer who has hit the big time with all her stores, products and books, has gotten a little competition. Can a perfume named Maria be far behind?
I really love her and write about as much as possible. They are a real life Cosby family and excellent role models for how marriage SHOULD work.
Alicia
http://todaystyle.today.com/
http://www.wifeytype.com/
Michelle really needs to get her hair in check. Her hair always look bad to me. I won’t even start on the kids since they really have no control over there situation.
What worries me is that blacks are looking for the great black hope and not a human. People you have to look past this election. With barry’s election do you actually think this man alone can change the the view and dynamics of how white america thinks about black people? Most white folks don’t realize Micheal Jordan, Beyonce, Micheal Jackson,Chris Rock, ( all entertainers) are black. Why should they think Barry is full Black? Be prepared for all the affirmation action laws to be erode completely. Be prepared for white and other groups to question why black are still in the backround of the American dream. Since we will be seen as equal for get getting any type of apology or reparations from the gov’t. Barry all ready said that was not going to happen under his administration.
Please carefully look at his record. Helping out folks in a major city does not make anybody qualified for the white house.
Has he balanced a budget for a city?
How did he obtain money to go to Harvard?
How successful was all the “organizing” in chicago?
Who are his policitcal friend and cronies?
Why has he flipped on the issues of taxes since the convention?
Why has he flipped on the Iraq war issue?
Why might getting in bed with a man who has more bed mites than the average politcian.