In light of the incredible and historic election that has just taken place, I need to speak from my heart about my thoughts on the future and what the Barack Obama victory means to me.
First and foremost, as a outdoor photographer, artist, naturalist, and someone who has a very inquisitive interest about the natural world, I am hopeful for a renewed respect for the environment in this nation. The landscapes of United States are some of the most beautiful and wondrous in the entire world, and they are worth protecting and preserving so that our future generations may enjoy them just as we do now. As much as I enjoy photographing the wonders of the natural world, it would be terribly sad if printed or digital images were the only way that our children and grandchildren could see what I see when I go out and explore the terrain of our country, and our planet.
It is long past time for us to recognize and acknowledge that the footprint of six billion humans does have an impact on the climate of this planet. Our recent leaders have continued to dance around this issue with their heads in the sand, but I am hopeful that attitude will be begin to shift.
Secondly, as someone who loves to explore and photograph the different places and cultures of the world outside our borders, I am hopeful that our standing and our relationships with the rest of the planet’s peoples begins to improve. In the past, being an American traveler in foreign lands garnered friendship and admiration, not mistrust and suspicion and cool receptions, or even downright hostility. I am eager to go out into the world and be proud, instead of embarrassed, of my nation’s leader, and I am hopeful that the growing resentment of America around the world will begin to quell.
Lastly, as a professional small business owner, I too have had to ride the insecure tide of our current economic downturn just like many others. Rocky times often are hardest on the smaller companies, simply because we do not have the vast financial resources to ride out the difficult times. Although my own photography business has continued to grow throughout the years, it certainly would be doing much better if the economy in general was much healthier. Just like anyone who owns a business, I want it to thrive and prosper as much as it possibly can, and I am hopeful to see our country’s financial health get back on track in the next few years.
Like millions of Americans, I am eager for change, and after seeing the awesome results of the most important election of our time, I see it coming and I am excited.