“Change” is the buzzword in the United States and possibly around the world, as we all digest the results of last weeks presidential election. Change is also the buzzword in my own head, as I continue through a period of personal transition and reflect on what “comes next” for me. In some ways, I’m a little disappointed that I’m not currently positioned to jump on the “change” bandwagon and leverage the current enthusiasm for civic engagement and channel it into one of my projects. On the other hand, this current wave of civic excitement suggests many opportunities, for someone like myself, that is not already overburdened with existing responsibilities.

The kind of political change that has been promised to the American people and the world is a very elusive target and will be difficult to achieve without the hard work and support of many individuals, non-profits, and community groups – working independently, but in support of our political leadership. Despite the economic difficulties facing our nation, I am like so many others who are buoyed by optimism and an overall sense of opportunity.

I believe that we are currently living in a moment that contains the seeds of social and political transformation. However, I’ve have no confidence in any single politician or administration to direct or lead that kind of change. The only chance that president-elect Obama has of meeting the expectations that the world has for him, is if he is able to inspire and then help channel the dispersed energy of millions of  individuals willing to commit themselves to real change in their nation, neighborhoods, and personal lives.

I recognize the opportunities that lay before us as a nation, as well as those that lay before me as an individual. What has yet to be determined is whether or not we have the courage and determination to seize upon those opportunities and achieve our personal and collective potential.