I am proud of what happened yesterday. I am proud to have contributed my vote to Obama's 45% in this "red" state of Arizona (and for reelecting Harry Mitchell). But someone tried to shatter my pride and my hope last night.

This morning, my kids (ages 9 and 6) and I woke up to the shattered rear window of our little Hyundai, hit by a rock because of an Obama-Biden sticker. A hateful, sour coward vented his/her rage and hidden aversions on our family. This is in "modern", "progressive" Arizona.

We still have so very far to go, as atested by the "boos" during McCain's speech last night, as the hateful messages in most internet posts, on both sides, before and after the election.

Obama's message was loud and clear last night: we still need to "heal the divides that have held back our progress". I am so proud of this day, but I am weary of the racism, hate, and anger that hide under the facade of civility in so many Americans. I fear it will never go away.

The election is over. Let the healing begin, by ending aggression of all kinds.

Mark Williams