Bitter Sweet

At Indianapolis rally from which Obama returned to Honolulu for his final visit with dear "Toots."
courtesy of Dan Axler













Ted Trimmer Photo (middle)

Just so we can vote.

Young Barry Obama's Young Street between his home and school. (below)

Madelyn Payne Dunham

1922 - 2008

"From clerk to vice president of Bank of Hawaii (1970); The Tutu (grandmother) called 'Toot' who largely raised young Barry (Barak) Obama."

[She] "was the cornerstone of our family, and a woman of extraordinary accomplishment, strength and humility. She was the person who encouraged and allowed us to take chances. She ... left this world with the knowledge that her impact on all of us was meaningful and enduring," said Obama and his sister, Honolulu teacher Maya Soetoro-Ng, in a statement yesterday.

Victorious Roman generals rode through the imperial city amidst a great public celebration called a "triumph." To remind them of the passing nature of all earthly glory, and to keep them grounded, someone rode in the chariot just behind them, every so often whispering in their ear: "This too shall pass." Let's celebrate this election day by honoring the hopes and sacrifices of those who came before us. Let's honor our children; and their children too with our vote. For today, history is being made; even as those who helped bring it about take their leave . . .

Warm ALOHA to you this day! Cloudia