Since I began voting at 18, this is the first time I felt GOOD about my choice. I have voted for Republicans, Democrats and once -- an Independent. But never a positive vote. Just...the lesser of two evils...or anyone who wasn't the other guy. There have been times I decided once I was in the voting booth.

This time I was thrilled to vote. I voted for Obama because I believe he can put the nightmare of the last eight years behind us. He can restore the reputation of the US as a country that leads by example not by force.

I believe he understands the health care crisis -- McCain has been at the federal government trough his entire life. Never drawn a paycheck that I didn't help pay for. He is -- or at least his wife is -- extremely wealthy. I do not believe he can understand the issues that ordinary wage earning people face.

I voted for Obama because he has the qualities of a leader -- able to inspire, able to motivate, able to get people working toward a common goal.