I took this picture from my cell phone. I was ten rows back, which means that there were exactly 162 people between Barack Obama and I (I know because I counted the chairs yesterday. Twice.)
The last time Barack Obama spoke on campus was two years ago during his campaign for the Presidency, which was while I was in Australia. He received his endorsement from Ted Kennedy during that visit and I have bemoaned missing it ever since.
So TODAY I got to remedy that grievous misfortune and see him deliver a major policy reform speech about immigration to an invite only crowd of particularly powerful people (oh yes, myself included).
As I sat watching the President of the United States of America make an appeal to the American people for an extension of our rights and birth-given good fortune to those who seek a better life, I looked around and realized he was talking about me. Who could possibly have more birth-given good fortune than myself, on this day especially? And THIS, friends, is why today will forever be known in my calender as, The Day of the Presidents.
Not only have I been employed by the Office of the President at American University in Washington, DC for four years, I also sat and watched the US President with the former American University Student Government President directly on my left whispering witty remarks into my ear at all the appropriate times. In addition, I applauded my friend, fellow improv-er, and current AU Student Government President, Nate Bronstein as he led this room of powerful people in a heartfelt delivery of the Pledge of Allegiance just before Obama spoke. That’s FOUR Presidents in my immediate vicinity and relation. Screw six degrees of separation.
I have always known that I enjoy the company of powerful people , but it’s never been as real or as evident as it was today.
Thank you American University and President Barack Obama for making all of this possible. I hope every immigrant, legal or illegal, can someday enjoy the blessings that, for whatever twisted reason, have been bestowed on me.
P.S. I also met Jimmy Carter. SUCKA.
Golly, gosh and gee whizzers! I am astounded at my little girl, once again! You are so way ahead of the curve, I can’t keep up. It’s gonna be hard to beat this particular posting but I know you will, and soon!
Your writing is spectacular. Keep it coming! Love, DB
Uh, you also forgot to mention that you once met Carl Rove.
And such a pretty smile too!
OMG!!!!!… How awesome Brookes!!!!! I am so proud of you!!!. Can’t wait to hear more!!! Love you. Uncle Bill