Flying pig president !

I have reservations about future policy initiatives from the Democrat Party, but for now here are a few concrete positives to focus on:

- It wasn't so long ago that many people thought the odds of seeing a black American president were about as high as spotting the creature pictured to the right. In the words of President Obama, 'If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible; who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time; who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer.'

- Hope, possibility and change: Yes, the old clichés, but in a time of crisis Obama's symbolism of renewal stands to exert a greater positive influence than would likely be the case in a more stable climate. My friend, who flew to America to join in and learn about Obama's campaign (for ulterior motives no doubt!) said 'No politician has got Americans this excited for decades, if ever.'

- The stereotype image of the average American is an unfair and unflattering one, and we may now be seeing a change in the global perception of the US. Witness the celebrations in Kenya, the positive media coverage in the UK, and positive comments flowing in from international leaders. Even before the elections, change was in the air. In the UK for example, C4 and the BBC aired several documentaries about the country's past and future, helping the public to see more clearly the rich history and culture of the United States.