Eversince I saw "Batman Begins," Batman became my favorite superhero. I was initially drawn to his ability to draw strength from past hurts and persistence in overcoming weaknesses/fears. While I am not one to tolerate violence, I also appreciated Batman's vigilante role as he committed both an exhorbant amount of time and resources to protecting the people of Gotham; a slightly more extreme version of Bill Gates.

So how does Batman relate to the Progressive Movement, or better yet, the Obama's campaign and the current U.S. Presidential Elections?

In a previous blog entitled "Concerns for the next U.S. President (Part I)," I discussed both the international and domestic concerns that our next president will have to tackle once he is sworn into office. I've been closely following the elections and have noticed a signficant increase in civic and political engagement, particularly among those who have not previously been involved. Senator Obama, in particular, seems to have captured both the hearts and minds of millions within and beyond U.S. borders. If Obama succeeds in winning the election, on the international level, he will be expected to re-establish positive diplomacy with our global neighbors and work towards creating a more positive image of the United States rather than its current status as a stubborn bully. On the domestic level, the millions who are rallying around him will expect him to address issues plaguing our nation including the rising costs of higher education, health care, gas prices, and the general cost of living without an increase in a living wage. Oh, and let's not forget climate change and our need to finally adhere to the Kyoto Protocol.

Wow, so Obama is supposed to clean up the currrent mess and create what seems to be the American utopia? All in four years?

As much as I am pleased with the response and level of political activism that has resulted from the Obama campaign and general presidential elections, my pragmatic side kicks in and knows that neither Obama nor any individual, is capable to solve our country's dilemmas alone.

The late former U.S. President, John F. Kennedy, once said, "And so, my fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country." While we continue to hold our government officials accountable, there is likewise a need for all of us to step up to the plate and find the Batman, or for those who prefer, the Dark Knight, within us. It's a matter of seriously asking ourselves how we can dedicate our time, talent, and resources to addressing the social injustices that concern us.

Thus, rather than solely rely on the next president to do a complete makeover in four years (eight if he's re-elected), maybe it's time for us to unleash our own inner Batman (or Batwoman).

Margaret Mead's words resonates with JFK's: "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."

Let's get to work.