I'm a huge President Obama fan. Which, these days, often makes me an Obama defender. Part of this defense is a personality-based relation. He's a textbook introvert. I am as well. I know how it feels to have your pensive and deliberate nature interpreted as being robotic, arrogant, and aloof. I also know how it feels to be criticized for being apathetic about something when in fact you care so much that it almost paralyzes you.
And, considering where the country was when he took office — and what America is — I think he's doing a great job.
That said, after listening to his speech on Ferguson today, I finally get what frustrated so many girlfriends and teachers and coaches about me. I know President Obama cares deeply about what's going on in Missouri and all over America right now. I know he feels it in every part of his body. And I know him sicing the F.B.I. dogs — including lead pitbull Eric Holder — on the case is going to get results.
Again, I know this.
But, it would have felt better to hear an angrier, a more fed up, a more outraged President today. It would have been good to hear him make at least one reference to race. It would have been great to hear him go in on how the increased militarization of the police is a problem, not a solution. It would have been great to receive a visceral reminder of the fact that we have a Black President.
But, those are just my feelings. I know he's in an unenviable position. I know he needs to be cognizant of the entire country, not just the demographic he belongs to. And I know he's going to do what he can.
But, I also know I don't feel like defending him today.