At first I was pretty angry to see these people so outwardly angry and intent on destroying a perfect opportunity for the Democratic Party to change the direction of our country. Why don't these people get it? They are fodder for the neocons. Then, for a moment I had a flash of empathy (something we seem to have lost completely in this political climate).

I had always been a fan of Hillary Clinton. I purchased her books, waited in line at the book signings and had a brief moment in her presence, for which I felt inspired. As a professional woman in a traditionally male field I have experienced gender bias, gender discrimination and all out misogyny. I watched as men, who I thought I knew well spewed extreme hatred and rage at Hillary's active approach to the position of First Lady.

I went into the primaries gung ho for Hillary and delighted at the thought that maybe, just maybe we would finally have a female president. As I watched I felt she had changed. She struck me as condescending and bitter. Her campaign turned nasty in the face of Obama's positive message and soon after the Missouri primary I changed my mind and hoped that Barack Obama would succeed in the primary. As Barack Obama pulled forward in the race I was still saddened to see my hope for a female president put off yet again, but thrilled to see a black man in the chair. Both groups have been long denied a chance to feel the hope that the position of the presidency would bring and both groups are deserving. But Barack Obama is the better candidate, regardless of color, gender or any other classification we impose on a person.

Women my age and older who have fought for women's rights and personally struggled against an unfair system are understandably disappointed and disillusioned. I empathize with that. Hillary is an excellent candidate, althought I expect great things from Claire McCaskill (Sen. Missouri) in the future. Perhaps Claire will stop working so hard for a minute and show her face a few times to let others see what a gem she is.

Women, we need to realize that this is not our year. It is the year for Barack Obama, a person who may just be one of the greatest leaders our country will ever have. I recommend reading his book The Audacity of Hope before making up your mind. In any event, Barack Obama is worthy and I hope you give yourself the opportunity to see that. When you are ready, you will be welcomed with open arms.

All of the angry letters here are doing nothing but harm. I am referring to those of you who tell the PUMAs and Clinton supporters to "get over it" as well as those Clinton supporters who are threatening to vote for McCain.

I was very upset when Kerry was nominated. He was not my choice. In fact, I thought he was a bad choice. I did vote for him, but I didn't contribute to his campaign monetarily or with my efforts. I have since regretted that decision and we all know how that turned out.

I know this letter will most likely be lost as there are hundreds, but I want to see a constructive conversation where some of us might be able to come together. There is not enough space here and this isn't the most appropriate forum. I invite all of you to blog this out at:

http://electionforchange.blogspot.com/

(or click on the hyperlink on my name below)

Both sides need to listen to each other because the Democrats need the Clinton supporters and the Clinton supporters need to be heard (and actually listened to) or they will never join the cause.