Hard to ignore the big cloud
hanging over us right now,
filling hearts and minds
with dread and doubt.
Between the financial crisis,
the looming election,
and the doomsday scenerios
that the media continues to feed us,
it can be hard to remain optimistic.

But this sight of our flag flying high
beneath threatening skies
and just above a bouquet of changing leaves
symbolized for me
the enduring qualities
of the American people.

We believe in our dreams
even during restless nights,
we exercise our right
to speak up and speak out,
we unite
even when our leaders won’t,
we look for the light
at the end of the tunnel.

Fear is the enemy,
faith is our friend.
Find yours and use it.