A Contagious Moment

During Obama's historic inauguration on Tuesday, we the people felt like part of history, too. We were happy to be witnesses to the Obamas' happiness. That's because cultural hegemony works in America.
In France, one person's victory doesn't make les autres feel victorious: they become critical and bitter because they don't think it will ever be their "turn."
We, on the other hand, are so blinded by the American Dream that even a taste of success (a J. Crew ensemble as seen worn by Michelle, anyone?) feels as good as the real thing. Perhaps if Carla started foregoing her usual Chanel, more people in France could have their petit goût of fame aussi.

Glynis Johns as Mrs. Banks. [Online image] 1964.

American Again

I grew up defending my beliefs with a toss of my pony-tail and a glib, "It's a free country."
America gave me that luxury to be smug. I could say what I thought. I could be what I dreamed of being.
But then something happened in 2000. Suddenly someone who didn't "get" it was leading our country. Someone with a personal agenda that had nothing to do with thinking or dreaming.
In spring 2001, in a room of fellow Berkeley undergrads eager to study abroad, it was impossible to ignore the change. "For the first time in my career," the program director warned, "I cannot say that you, as Americans, will be welcomed abroad with open arms."
I moved to Paris that August, and three weeks later, on 9/11, the world ground to a halt before diving into a perilous cycle of fear, hate, and greed.

When Barack Obama was elected President this week, Americans affirmed their right to think and dream. . . and, yes, to be smug again.

Daryl Hannah as Madison. [Online image] 1984.