Editor:

The election is over. The process of electing a president and other leaders is incomplete. There remain a few official formalities that have to be accomplished. I am grateful that our nation has afforded each eligible citizen the opportunity to participate in the shaping of our nation and to help determine the direction we will take over the next few years. It was inspiring to see and hear all of the perspectives that this election generated. It validated that we each have a voice and a right to be heard, and we validate that voice with a ballot.

Yet, I am gravely concerned that today there are those who honestly feel our country is doomed for destruction or failure as a result of this election. This is appalling. After all, this is America! This is the 21st century! Too many people are competent, alert, and we have too many checks and balances in place. We cannot and will not crash nor fail. We may however, be challenged to adjust, modify, and make changes that call us from our secured places of comfort and established symbolic thrones.

Again and again, we demonstrate that we rise no matter the challenge. Politics was clearly dirty. Several efforts were made selfishly and with personal or party agendas. None of these proved fruitful. We are not easily altered from what we believe to be core values. Nationally, I believe that this election affirmed this. It also reaffirmed that we have become a more inclusive, accepting, and embracing community. Each day we reduce the cadre of those who speak for us and move closer to becoming our own spokespersons. All persons, races, classes, and categories spoke during this election. Thanks America for valuing democracy.

Have we really begun the journey to being a truly diverse community? Is the major upset presently, because all people participated and made a difference? Imagine how empowering that can be. As a child, I remember window shopping. I witnessed those places we could only see and not partake. Perhaps we have reached a point where we can finally taste what has been viewed on the other side of the glass for so long. Although there are those who through tactics strategically rush us past created and afforded opportunities, change is now within our grasp. Beyond the shocking reality of what took place Tuesday to those who felt they were in charge and could dictate what the rest of America should continue to do, is the overwhelming reality that this shaping of our society sets in motion a new direction for possibilities, options, and outcomes.

One man nearing the eve of death had a dream. Another man in defiance of symbolic death realized the dream. Thousands now achieving against all odds no longer have to dream. Afterthought; for those who are still asleep, wake up quick. It’s a new day in America. The tides have turned, and no longer is the traditional outcome greatly expected. Fear is understood. The potential for change is nationwide and contagious. Nothing or no one is exempt. The exclusive is now the inclusive. The ill inhibitors, shamefully conditioned by the selfish and greedy, are no longer affective; instead these acts have become motivation and incentives to press beyond the bar. Welcome to the new America.

The Rev. Alonzo Braggs

Hallsboro, N.C.