I turned on the Democratic National Convention at around 7 tonight to listen in the background. There were speakers, but I didn’t pay too much attention until they did the roll call. I LOVE the roll call! This year, the Democrats had already done a virtual count of delegates, so this was ceremonial, and they even had music (with a quirky DJ) during the call. As the Democratic Party Secretary called each state, each representative was so proud of their state, and they yell out things about their state that makes it distinctive. Some of them are funny about it, in a proud way. Like New York!

Speaking of New York (I’m biased), Senator Chuck Schumer spoke about the Senate. He also mentioned, on a personal note, that he is the highest ranking elected Jewish person in the history of our government, something I did not know. It was a way for him to lead into his concern for the rise of anti-semintism.

The next notable speaker was Senator Bernie Sanders. Sanders went through a long list of things that had been acheived under the Biden/Harris administration, but he also listed things he wanted to get done. It was a rather tedious — if empassioned — speech. Sanders is nothing if not tireless, and while he may not show it, passionate.

The first gentleman came next. Doug Emhoff!! So charming.

He told us the lovely story of his courtship with Kamala, and it was funny and endearing. He told the audience that she was right for him at a time in his life when he needed her, and that “At this moment in our nations’ history, she is the exact person for our country.” This is another line of his that I loved: “She will not be distracted by nonsense.”

After a few more speakers, Michelle Obama walked onto the stage to an enormous roar of applause and cheers. The crowd was giddy. After a minute or two, she kept scolding the crowd to stop. She had the face of: come on guys, I have stuff to tell you!

And she did. It was a masterfull speech. It had a theme of motherhood and responsibility. I suggest you find it and watch it.

She poked at Trump in a nuanced, humorous and tough way.

Her tone at times was urging us not to be complacent, take charge, do something! The crowd chanted that repeatedly. She had them in the palm of her hand.

Then Michelle finished her speech and introduced her husband…again humorously and lovingly. They greeted each other with an embrace and kiss as the crowd cheered.

Obama was his usual self, but to me he seemed more relaxed. And a few times, he seemed even angrier than I had ever seen him.

But he peppered his speech with humor. At one point someone in the crowd said something, and he ad-libbed, “Yes she can!”

President Obama’s speech was lofty and strong and meaningful. To my eyes and ears, Michelle’s message was much more effective. It was unique, nuanced, humorous, sharp, tough and delivered as if with the care of a scolding mother. I don’t know if I’ve heard a better political speech in recent memory.

Barack said one thing that I want to end with:

“America can be and must be a force for good.”