Apparently not.

At lunch, my colleague mentioned how one woman got on her bus on the way to work and started talking about the Obama’s election. A conversation started right there and then between complete strangers up until my officemate got off.

On the way home, a black woman got on my carrriage and just announced cheerfully “I am so happy”. Some people smiled back, one Asian guy asked why. She talked about the historic moment in the US and how this change should trigger not just political or economic change but individual change. Like saying “hi” and “smiling” at strangers, being courteous and generous. She said there’s no reason why the world cannot fight poverty if everyone just pitched in. Of course she says all these in kilometric sentences. But you get the drift.

At near 9pm, not everyone’s in the mood to chat so most of her lament fell on deaf ears. To which she asked to no one “Why is it that when someone acts like I did just now, being friendly and all, people thinks you’re crazy?” I said to her the only statement I blurted the entire trip “it’s not the norm”.

But she got it right. Wouldn’t it be great if Obama’s election triggers something even more meaningful for the entire world? Camaraderie and hope.

I don’t know how long the feeling of euphoria will last. I don’t know if Obama is aware of his election’s effect not just on the political scene. I don’t know if he’s really aware his success is a beacon not only for blacks but for everyone.

All eyes are on him and everyone will be watching, I hope he doesn’t disappoint.

——

As an aside all the UK dailies today published “souvenir” editions on the election. Election paraphernalia are selling fast on eBay. What does that tell you?