And yet, while this election is a firm rejection of that kind of thinking, it’s also about how this man brought so many people together and inspired us by his example to focus not on bickering or hurt feelings or the vast divide of our differences, but on rolling up our sleeves and looking for a way to bridge that chasm.

[...]

I know I am not alone when I say that my vote in this election was as much for his vision as it was for you and your future.

One fine example of something that makes this election different: hope portrayed not as some rhetorical romantic concept but as a powerful motivator and driver, at a very personal level, of the work ahead.

So the past and the present goals have been accomplished (obliterated one might say, given the landslide victory), and now comes the hardest part of it all: the future. But it is at least one driven by hope and a belief that change is as feasible as it is necessary. Yes, we can. We Have. We Will.

I found Mr McCain’s concession speech gracious and elegant, even as his supporters booed each and every mention of Mr Obama’s name (ironically, the same was not true on the other camp: Mr Obama’s mentions of Mr McCain and Mrs Palin’s names drew cheers and applause). Mr Obama’s speech was direct and gracious as well, fit of the leader that he is.

It’s only begun. Rock on.