John Kerry more than exceeded my expectations tonight. Prior to his speech, I was going to vote for him as the Anti-Bush candidate, but now I will be voting for John Kerry the candidate. He hit all the points, and refuted a lot of the tax and spend liberal crap we are always fed by the media and the right. He did a good job of continuing with the Democrats message of returning America to its greatness here and abroad and of being the party of inclusiveness and optimism. It was brilliant really the way that Kerry used Bush jr's message of returning integrity to the White House against Bush. He took off the gloves, threw down the gauntlet and threw a few jabs, but kept it pretty civil and challenged Bush to do the same, knowing that Bush won't.
       The Vietnam service thing is getting old, but then again, he wouldn't need to trot that pony out so often if the Republicans weren't always calling into question the patriotism and courage of Democrats all the time. So just remember that as you hear the whole boat and captain thing and think how many times Democrats/Liberals are portrayed as wimps. Thank the gods, Clark was able to get in there and kick some ass too.
        The optimism and belief in progress and building a better future are good messages and attitudes that will inspire people to get up and vote.  This was a remarkable convention in just how strong the themes were and how effective they addressed some issues that usually haunt Democrats. The fact that people like Barack Obama and John Kerry did their best not to attack Republicans, but rather specific people or ideas may be derided by some as too centrist. However I think in the long run it may do what Reagan did and this time around instead of Reagan Democrats, we may just have some Kerry Republicans.
          When I think of Bush and the direction he will lead us, I feel demoralized. But when I hear speeches like those given this week, I am lifted and energized with a feeling of hope for this country and it's people.  There just may be a way out of this mess and we can get back to living with hope and pride not fear and hatred.
       If I sound like I have been brainwashed, then just watch some of the speeches and think about how much better things will be if Bush goes on permanent vacation.