From Swinging States to a Swinging Pendulum

I'll leave the political analysis to the experts, of which there are many this morning, however the images that have struck me over this momentous night are the following:  PRIDE, an immense pride on the faces of americans of all colours, ages and social levels in what has happened, pride in the mails I have been receiving from north american students both from the US and Canada; a MASSIVE turnout and long, long QUEUES of voters lining up calmly for hours on end  in order to cast their vote; the graciousness and DIGNITY of Senator McCain in defeat and the GRAVITY and LUCIDITY of President elect Obama in victory.  Having heard the word Historic used so much over the last few days, this can invariably create a burn out effect and yet today is just that, historic.  HISTORIC for its choice of future president (mixed race), for its clear voice 338 seats so far and for its high turnout, particularly first time voters and the under 30s.  For those wanting an insight into the ramifications of this election, UK Independent sheds interesting and well reflected light on the subject. Daniel Finkelsein at the UK's Times puts forward 4 reasons why americans voted for Obama whilst Peter Baker at the New York Times highlights the seismic challenges awaiting the new President.  Obama has got a lot on his plate now both domestic and global.... and he knows it.  The tasks that face him are immense, he inherits a country that is arguably devastated financially and psychologically.  Some say he needs to give back a sense of optimism to Americans,  others would say that this is exactly what he has been doing this for the last few months and that the results are there for us to see today. Good luck Mr President (elect).