pound it

Last week, amid all the last minute scrambling and politicking by Clinton and Obama, one moment caught my eye as being noteworthy. Just as Obama was getting ready for his coronation speech as the presumptive Democratic nominee, there was an exchange between Barack and his wife, Michelle. It was subtle, and appeared to be impromptu. They hugged, and then, warmly smiling at each other, bumped fists. Obama then proceeded to give his speech to thousands of worshiping supporters.

The moment with his wife was significant because it stood apart from much of what we've seen this year. For many candidates (especially the Republicans -- with Janet Huckabee as a clear exception), it seems like the year of the trophy wife. For the Democrats, the massively dysfunctional Clintons have claimed center stage. The Obama's relationship, however, has consistently appeared to be relatively normal and caring. Far from appearing staged, the fist pound was a snapshot of what appears to be a healthy marriage.

I can't help placing this moment alongside Al and Tipper Gore's very awkward mutual "face plant" kiss during the 2000 presidential election. In stark contrast to that unnatural and clearly staged moment, somehow it's reassuring to see a couple that can be comfortably affectionate in public. I think it's the same feeling a child has when he sees his parents holding hands. Knowing that the Obamas may very well be residing in the White House for the next four years, I'm glad to know that: 1. they're young enough to pull off the fist pound, and 2. that they still like each other. Even if I'm not in love with all of their political views, the Obamas represent levels of health and normalcy that have been far too often absent from the White House.