wow

i just saw on cnn that, according to AP reports, the democrats have taken the senate.i don't know why, but it made me want to open up our firebox, take out our passports, and take this picture.i'm reminded of when florian became a citizen, in august 2001 (six weeks before 9/11). and in 2002, he voted for the first time. i went with him, to show him the ropes. at the time our polling place was the nelsonville village hall, with one booth, one table, and three little old ladies. i showed him how the curtain worked, and the levers. he went in. while he was voting, i explained to the ladies that he'd only recently become a citizen, and that this was his first time voting.when he came out, they clapped.and as i type this, i am filled with such a sense of awe, of gratitude. do you realize how lucky we are, that we get to vote? and for once, actually for first time since i've been of voting age, i feel like my vote really made a difference.wow.i'll get off my soapbox now -- but just... wow.