This was a very challenging campaign and the country was more divided than ever. But Obama reminded us: "What makes America exceptional are the bonds that hold together the most diverse nation on earth, the belief that our destiny is shared, that we accept certain obligations to one another. Love, charity, duty, patriotism: that's what makes America great."
Obama seemed to acknowledge the spontaneous volunteering and organising by communities to help Sandy victims, many of whom are still without heat and electricity and were unable to hear his victory speech. He said: "The role of citizen in our democracy doesn't end with your vote. America has never been about what can be done for us but what can be done by us... the frustrating work of self-government. That's the principle we were founded on. We are greater than the sum of our individual ambitions. We are more than a collection of blue states and red states..."
There is much to be done in the coming four years in the US - addressing climate change, job growth, women's rights, same sex marriage, health and immigration, legalizing and regulating marijuana.
But the President must also look abroad to resume America's position in world policy. Among the key issues for the next four years is to give Palestinians the dignity of their own state whilst securing Israel's long term security.
In 2008 the election was one of hope and change. In 2012 we must now hope that the President can change many of these situations around the world for good.
It is time to build consensus in America and get the country really moving again on a united front.
Source:RB
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