Open Letter to Tavis Smiley

Hello,
I am writing in response to Mr. Smiley's recent criticism of Barack Obama. I have to say that I listened to Mr. Smiley subtly attack Obama at our church (the City of Refuge) last year when he wasn't able to attend another event of his, and I was very disappointed. I am a young, 26 year old, educated African American woman---and this is the first time that I have been moved to get involved in my country----yes this is because Barack Obama is running. Don't get me wrong, I am just as excited that there is a WOMAN running for office (who has a serious chance of election). But I have to ask this question of Mr. Smiley----is he ready for the change that is going to occur when Obama and Michelle get into the White House? And why would he dare try to rob this man of his chances, or make people second guess whether he is "down enough"? I am so disgusted and turned off by Mr. Smiley's arrogance and total disregard of what Obama and Michelle are trying to achieve in this country. They are not simply concerned about our people, they are concerned about ALL people---how can you bash a man for that. Is that not Christian? Is that not humane----no to mention, Obama's record has proven ten fold that he is looking out for the best interest of his people----his record in Illinois proves that. Please don't misunderstand my rant, my concern is that Mr. Smiley is not seeing the big picture, and attempting to use the same divisive tactics that politicians use to separate and conquer. But I will say, as an EDUCATED young, 26 year old African American female I will not fall for Mr. Smiley's ridiculous outburst for the sake of gaining attention to his event, or relevance for that matter. And I will make sure my less fortunate brothers and sisters do not fall for his shenanigans as well----I am a young person, and WE are who you should be concerned about because WE are going to CHANGE how this country operates. Praise God for Obama and Michelle of reminding us of this, and reinvigorating that energy and belief within us.
All of my sisters will shed tears when we get to see a STRONG, BEAUTIFUL, Sister grace the American public as the First Lady in January 2009. I hope you Mr. Smiley are ready for that.