Some Thoughts about Obama

While I was relaxing at the bookshop, I had a thought about the upcoming American elections. I thought about how politics tend to polarise people into Conservatives or Labour; Republicans or Democrats. As a woman of colour I'm expected to support Labour or any party that represents the "underdogs." I've never bought into any of those ideas nor do I support any organisation based on race, gender or creed. I simply follow my heart. When I've voted it's always been a decision I've made on the day which has always been between me and the ballot paper.

Even though I am not rooting for either of the candidates I thought it would be interesting to see how the American elections unfold between John McCain and Obama. What's Obama's first name again? How can I not remember his name when he's in the news practically every day? Is it John? No, not John. Peter, James, Philip? Damn it, why can't I remember his name? If I had access to the Internet I would have just Googled it. I could check the Autobiography section, as I know he's got a book out, but I can't be bothered.

I decided to play the game of remembering. I visualised someone standing in front of me giving me the answer which I ate. OK, any moment now Obama's first name is going to pop up in my consciousness or someone is going to say his name out loud. I could feel it with all my being. After a few minutes and still no joy, I asked the man sitting next to me what Obama's first name was. He told me it was Barack.

I went back to reading the book I had with me. I was vaguely aware that a shop assistant was busy putting books on shelves. When another shop assistant joined him, I was intrigued so I decided to eavesdrop their conversation. The shop assistant talked about the difference between autobiography and biography. They discussed books they'd read. Then one assistant picked up a book from the shelf and said: "Barack Obama. Have you read his autobiography?"

The other assistant said he hadn't. The one who had picked up the book said he was looking forward to the American elections. He said he intended to watch the elections unfold on different news channels at the same time so he could compare and contrast the different views. He said he had three televisions in his house. Then he moved to another part of the store.

I knew that scene had been played out for my benefit in response to my question.

Later at home, my mother and I watched the last episode of the documentary called Amazon where Bruce Parry explores the culture along the River Amazon. I decided to close my eyes and listen from the silence. At one point I heard Bruce referring to someone as Barack. After he'd called the name a few times, I opened my eyes and asked my mother whether Bruce had actually said "Barack."

"I think the name is Bereck but it sounds like Barack."

I told my mother about my earlier experience at the bookshop. I said I believed this documentary was the Universe's way of answering my question.

OK, Universe, I get it. Obama's first name is Barack! I won't forget it.

As for the American elections, I believe the winner will be the candidate whose vision is in perfect harmony with the heart of the American people.

Enocia

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