100 Days

"Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America- they will be met. On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord."
- Barack Obama, 1/20/09

It seems like all I've heard about for the past month is "Obama's First 100 Days." Everyone wants to know how he measures up to other presidents and what he's accomplished. Most evaluation periods are long enough that I pay no mind to them, but this one hits a little close to home. Not only do I feel invested in the Obama administration, but the time since Barack has taken office is extremely relevant to my life.

In 100 days I've moved away from home. I've changed occupations. I've made new friends (while burning a few bridges.) I've acquired new music (yes, it really is that important) and learned how to really cook. I've lost a cat. :( I've started making a viable plan for my future. In the past 100 days I've attended church on my own accord, participated in a Seder, and taken a road trip (or two . . . cough.) I've met some of the most influential people in the nation, learned how to milk a goat, and have grown a few shades darker. In the past 100 days I have gone from an unsure, sad girl to a (fairly) confident, happy young lady. The first month was more of the same- shame, lies, monotony. Then came the big move- excitement, uncertainty, knowledge. And now there's, well, now. A friend of mine said something very wise tonight: "The ones who plan for the moments down the road are ultimately the ones who control the moments we're in." This was said in a political context, but I feel that it suits my situation. I have hope for the future, so I have hope for
now. I think I'll be happy next year, so I'm happy now. I've grown to look at everything as an opportunity or an experience. Need to shovel poop? It's exercise! Unruly group? Simply practice for meetings in the future! My cynical side is still very much alive, but the Optimist in me is starting to shine. Right now I truly feel like the world is at my disposal. I may not have the most money, the most friends, the hottest body, or the brightest mind but I have a big smile and a little thing called hope. Although that may not be enough, it's a damn good start.

"So I think we're off to a good start, but it's just a start. I'm proud of what we've achieved, but I'm not content. I'm pleased with our progress, but I'm not satisfied." -Barack Obama, 4/29/09