The Cool-Ray Man

Written: January 23, 2009

Tuesday was just one of those days. Not the kind where everything went wrong. Actually, the kind where everything went right. No guns. No shots. No mobs. No arrests. Not anything more than the newest march on Washington.

Like most of the US, I decided to stay home and watch the coverage CNN and ABC style. I woke-up, showered, dressed and sat down in my favorite chair to watch Anderson Cooper, Charlie Gibson, Diane Sawyer and Soledad O’Brien weigh-in. I saw the flub-up with Chief Justice Roberts. I even saw Aretha’s hat. How could you miss it?! Obama began his speech and addressed what I believe to be a changed nation.

Something went right that lunch hour, and I sum it up in an exchange we had with the Cool-Ray Heating and Air service man:
He had to interrupt my dad during the address, so he could sign some paperwork approving the maintenance. He apologized profusely for interrupting, but he had too many houses that day and needed to be off. As he was walking out, he turned and asked my father and I if we had voted for the new President. (As an aside, I am often used to defending my Democratic ideals in suburban Atlanta.) I carefully said, “I voted for him.” My dad turned and repeated the same. And then Change came. The Cool-Ray Man (Tim) smiled and echoed, “So did I.” “I’m hoping he fixes the economy.” With that, he turned and walked upstairs. I shouted after him, “Let’s see what happens in the next four years.” He shouted in reply, “I’m hoping for eight!”

Tuesday was just one of those days…

THAT day

So, in true drama chic chick blog tradition, tonight's sociopolitical entry centers around Inauguration Day. I mean, what is there left to say? In my young adulthood, a black man (neigh, a mixed man) was elected President of the United States of America. SERIOUSLY!?

Honestly, I don't know if I have a pop cultural comparison. There isn't one. This is one of those events that can really only be witnessed in the moment. I mean, you can have pop stars, rockers and famous actors rally in support. You can judge a President by his relationship with Bono. You can even judge a President by Pete Seeger's presence at his celebration (singing with The Boss, no less).

However, tomorrow will be a new day in America and the next four years a test of America's character. "It's a beautiful day!" BONO

SF

Le sigh. I have often found that when you return to that place where you feel right, you are home. You know what I mean? It's that place where breathing the air is a little bit easier. The energy makes sense. You feel like all is right with the world for no particular reason at all.

For me, that place is San Francisco. I've never lived in a city where the energy, landscape, beauty, quirkiness and weather make sense. (Boston would be the only close second.)

Now, I know this is cheesy, and, trust me, I don't do cheesy often, but I truly believe I consistently leave my heart in San Francisco. Just like Frankie and Tony B before me, you can't help but sing about that town.

For all you Chi-towners, don't worry. We haven't forgotten that the same guys sang about you. Oh, and New Yorkers, I don't need to tell you. But I encourage everyone to find that place in the world where everything makes sense for no reason at all and, by golly, sing a show tune about it.

Home

Too long...

I have not updated since, gasp, last year! Oh my!

Well, let's just say the Nation's Capital is getting ready for a crazy week of debauchery and revelry!

This inauguration is shaping up to be like a Stones' reunion concert and a Britney comeback all rolled into one. I mean, when DC residents are renting rooms in their houses for $2,000 a night, you know something big is about to go down.

Let's sit back and watch history. OR if you're so inclined, pay $2,000 and do so. Ah, America.

Happy new year everyone! May it be filled with peace and hope. A change is gonna come.