Activate Your Politico

So, let's be honest, I've never really been one for politics.

In high school, I chose to take government because of the two evils (history or government) studying history for an entire semester would have been like stabbing myself in the eye with a hot poker every day of my life.

In college, I earned a B in my government class. And even then I think (OK, let's be honest - I know) I only excelled because my professor was completely ignorant of the fact that students earn grades; they are not given by professors. So I had to prove her wrong.

I still curse her to this day.

But if you were to ask me to explain my lack of political interest, opinion and/or commentary -- there are two things I could say to you.

The first -- blame it on the job. I'm a journalist (and damn proud of it). And the cardinal rule of Journalism 101? Remain objective, meaning my public affiliation with either political party could mean a discredit to my journalistic reputation.

But as any human being knows -- the term objective is subjective in itself; so in my opinion, I lose out on that argument.

The second -- ignorance. As much as it pains me to say it, I've held strong to the saying that "ignorance is bliss" and applied to my view of politics. But that was until I made a promise to myself to pay attention to the Democratic National Convention over the last few days.

I know that the blogosphere will be jam-packed with political commentators, much more experienced, in tune and linguistically capable than myself. But let's just say (as part of my journalistic duties) I've decided to give it a shot.

I still refuse to identify myself with either party, and I won't label myself as an independent. I actually believe it's that sort of "labeling" that's gotten us all confused and riled up in the first place.

But as someone new to the "political arena" if you will, I'll offer my opinion, ask questions and hopefully gain a little knowledge.

I've paid the most attention to the convention over the past two nights, during which Joe Biden and Barack Obama gave their speeches. They've raised questions, brought forth their issues and without doubt inspired millions.

However, it's late -- at least for this 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. working girl. I've just watched Obama's speech for the second time tonight, and as the convention came to a close with the score "Titan's Spirit" (I think I started to choke up at 3:20 on the track) playing as streamers flew and fireworks lit up the sky...I couldn't help but be inspired.

Maybe it's because music has a way of drawing out my emotions, or maybe it's because I've finally realized that, as Obama put it, "all across America, something is stirring."

But I aspire to be a part of it.