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July 28, 2004

From Teresa to Edwards

Yesterday, when I watched, transfixed, Teresa Heinz Kerry give such an impassioned speech, I was proud -- proud to be an American, a Democrat, a woman, and a fellow native Pittsburgher. Yes, it is time that smart woman can express their opinions without being labeled "opinionated". I thought to myself that this would not have been well received 12 years ago if Hillary had said it. But, I immediately realized that had it not been for Hillary, Teresa could not have said it now. It was the talk of every person I spoke with today. They loved Teresa.

I've watched Teresa for over 20 years in Pittsburgh, a city we both love. Even though Virginia is now my home, and I love the majesty of the Shenandoah Valley and its people, there is always that tug to Pittsburgh. There is always that special identity to "Heinz", and now to Teresa.

Tonight, as I watched John Edwards, I was reminded of being in Raleigh when he gave his concession speech and how amazed I was at how much more magnetic he is in person. I recalled the remarks from the CNN camera man standing beside me when he said, "That's the nicest man I ever met." I said, "You mean 'nicest politician'. "No," he said, "I mean the nicest man. I spent 40 days on a bus with him, and everyday, he talked with each of us. He knew who was going through a divorce, whose mother was ill, whose dog died. I've never known anyone like him."

As I listened to Edwards speak tonight, the concept that we can get back on the right track became a reality. The unity, the "friends", he brings to everyone, bring back hope that has long been missing. As he said, "Hope is on the way."

Watching all the speakers preceeding him, I became more aware of the numbers of people from all walks of life who are behind Kerry and Edwards. This is the team and the party to bring people together in One America. Hope is, indeed, on the way.

Marlana Lewis
Chair, Waynesboro DC
Comunication's Director, 6th District

Posted by marlana at July 28, 2004 10:29 PM

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