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Sep 2 2008, 2:34 PM EDT (current) Rembrandt 428 words added
Sep 2 2008, 2:34 PM EDT Rembrandt

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I'm Candi Schmieder. I don't know how to express how unlikely it is that I would be here today. Like Senator Obama, I lost my mother to cancer when she was too young. I was a junior in high school and made some poor life choices. I started but never finished college.

Today, I am a 39 year old wife and mother of three children. I work part time from home. I can't even say this experience is like a dream coming true, because I've never allowed myself to dream so big! I am here today because of Senator Obama.

I first heard of him when my pastor gave me his “Call to Renewal” speech to read. I saw common beliefs, and I wanted to learn more. I read The Audacity of Hope. It was simple and straight-forward, with no political game-playing, just bringing people together so real changes can be made that affect the everyday lives of people like me.

When Senator Obama announced he would run for president, I was thrilled and, for the first time in my life, I decided to get involved. Living in Iowa, we had the opportunity to attend many events and to meet Senator Obama, Michelle and their family. We learned that they are very down-to-earth, genuine people who truly understand our point of view.

When I listened to Senator Obama speak, my children stood next to me, and I understand what he means when he talks about the “fierce urgency of now.” If not now, what will our country look like in four or eight years? What will my children's future hold? During the course of this campaign, I have been involved like never before. I am a precinct captain. I go door to door, talking to my neighbors about Senator Obama. I donate money, and I had the opportunity in May to introduce Senator Obama in front of a great Des Moines, Iowa crowd.

Yes, Senator Obama inspired me with his words, but he then motivated me with his good, solid plans for action. He convinced me that I was an important part of making these plans happen. He convinced me that my voice does matter. In fact, he was so convincing that I've decided to go back to college, finish my bachelor's degree and pursue something that I'm now very passionate about– public service!

I am convinced that Barack Obama is the best choice for President of the United States. He has the judgment, compassion, intelligence, perseverance and experience needed to be the next leader of our country.