I don't usually sit through television broadcasts of political campaigns, but this year is different. This year, we Americans are at war and in danger.
I didn't watch the Democratic convention, because I had already decided that a vote for John Kerry is unconscionable. But I'm watching the Republican National Convention, and I'm finding myself uplifted.
Rudy Guiliani, the Mayor of New York City on 9/11/01, last night reminded us, with his poignant recollections of that tragic day, of the moral justice of protecting our country by pre-emptive strikes against terrorists. Rudy's speech strengthened the soul of our national purpose and rekindled the spirit of unity that bound Americans together in the days following the vicious attack on our homeland. Tonight, California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger explained his exhilaration as a young immigrant arriving in the United States and, through the boundless opportunities offered by our country, making all of his life's dreams come true. Arnold's speech celebrated the joy and freedom of being an American, the rightness of defending our freedoms, and the hopefulness inherent in extending those freedoms to other nations.
Both men radiated the joy of being an American. Both men offered heartfelt thanks to the men and women of our military. Both men reminded us to be grateful, to be appreciative, to be respectful of this wonderful country we are blessed to be a part of. And both men reiterated the importance of keeping a strong, principled, resolute leader, George W. Bush, in office at this crucial time in our history.
Rudy and Arnold, a dynamic duo of highly refreshing and inspiring speakers. Not a negative note sounded by either one about our country. They both love America. They said everything so many of us wanted, and needed, to hear. They said it straight, and they said it strong.
They rocked the house.
