Hope. Peace. Progress.

Rai, last year a new President was elected in America. During the campaign and in the months following his election, there was a real sense of hope and and an anticipation of great changes and progress to come. In fact, these three words were essential components of President Barack Obama's campaign message.
Hope. Change. Progress. Yes, we can. Every democrat and liberal held these words close to their heart and no republican could avoid them. Now, almost one year later, is the hope still alive? It's hard to say. The excitement of those times has passed. Has progress been made? Plenty but still not enough. The gears of bureaucracy turn very slowly and democracy is often more of a barricade than a lubricant.
Hope for change and progress, however, cannot be placed on the shoulders of one man and his administration. It's the every day person and his or her actions that makes an impact. So, Rai, if we want hope then hope we must. If we want change, then we must be the agents of that change, step by small step in our own lives and communities. And, if we want progress, then we must clearly define and agree on what that progress must be and work towards it together, always.
Rai, you will be one of possibly more than 10 billion on this Earth when you're aware enough to understand politics, social systems, and the power of one to make a difference. A huge responsibility falls on you and your peers. We're counting on you.