Lunch with Obama

Its campaign season and lucky for me a friend had access to discounted tickets for a luncheon where President Obama was speaking!

When I told my mother about this, she promptly instructed me to purchase a new suit.  I guess she’s right; there aren’t too many events that would more warrant me finally making this much overdue upgrade to my wardrobe.  I also took the day off.  This proved to be are really smart idea.

The luncheon was an amazing experience.  It was a small taste of what circles of powerful individuals looked like.  I ended up meeting and hobnobbing with a few executives of major non-profits, public companies, the governor, and NBA legend, Bill Russell.  And as always, the president’s speech was elegant and inspirational.

Unfortunately, it wasn’t a perfect event and it did fall short of some fairly lofty expectations.  The president was running late and didn’t speak until around 4:30; a bit late for a lunch.  And it was made more noticeable by the fact that the actual program (announcements, band, etc.) wrapped up at 2:30; leaving attendees sitting for about two hours with no announcements, food, or bar, as they attempted reschedule the rest of the day.  Part of the reason his speech was so delayed was that he needed to take pictures with each donor willing and able to pony up $5k.  I wish.  And while the speech was inspirational, it did feel like a generic stump speech that he probably will use at the next few stops on the campaign.  After the 10 or so minute speech, he received a standing ovation and promptly left.

I feel very fortunately to have had the opportunity to attend such an event.  But I was reminded how far I am away from the truly elite.

Pics
https://picasaweb.google.com/110551311021667955130/20120217Obama?authuser=0&feat=directlink