OK John, I give up,,,

The conventions are now relegated to history, and we pause for some reflection on the last two weeks. In truth, the contrasts between the Democrat and Republican parties are more stark than imagined. The Democrats tried hard, they really did, but in comparing the individuals representing both parties, the Republicans came out ahead. For sheer personal American accomplishment, there is no comparison at all. The Republicans share much in the American values held dearest by all, and it was quantified in the telling of the tales of the two candidates. One is left to wonder why the Democrats could not ante up the stakes, and be more competitive in this race to the highest offices in the land. As compelling a speech as was John McCain's, there are still some questions not fully answered. Immigration reform, global warming, and less reliance on foreign oil are chief among these concerns. Bask in the glow Mr. McCain,you have earned the nomination, and the hearts of many a person who may have had doubts about your ability to carry the day.

McCain's speech was a bit odd, in that as a nominee of the Republican party, he scolded both Democrat, and Republican congressional types for their wasteful spending ways. This tactic merely affirmed his status as a "maverick". It would be unwise to assume that "Conservative chickens" have come home to roost as a result of Sarah Palin's speech last evening. Mr. McCain hopefully, understands this, and will be more mindful of the fragile nature of such support as he campaigns his way to Washington in November.

Listening to the speech, I was carefully parsing his words, and liking much of what I was hearing. Then, toward the end of the speech, a hush gathered over the hall as Mr. McCain slowly, and deliberately, recounted the story of his life as a prisoner of war. Clearly, this was his shining moment. He stressed that yes, he was fearful, but felt the need to show fellow prisoners that he could take the punishment administered by his Vietnamese captors. He confessed that the enemy had "broken' him, and that it was a fellow prisoner who resuscitated his belief in himself, and in his county. Was this a calculated move? I do not think so, for sincerity cloaked the image of this man standing alone on the grandest of stages. It was a moment befitting of someone exiting a Catholic confessional booth. He told us of his finding meaningful love for the country that did not abandon him, and that he would not ever abandon America, so long as he was drawing a breath of life sustaining air. A moment of contrition wears well on an honest man.

His most meaningful words to me, were his stating that Americans do not turn from history, but make history. So, in a nut shell, this man made his points well, and has earned my support. As much as I feared this man, I now fear him less. Yes, I give in to you, John McCain. I will back you all the way to the White House. The next day though, I shall be watching for signs of your firm commitment to the Conservative cause. God Bless you, and Sarah Palin!