Rejoicing in the Audacity of Hope

There have been countless news reports, opinion columns, blogs, and other forms of media celebrating the historic presidential election of Barack Obama. As an African American, I am overcome with pride by his accomplishment. As a writer and publisher, that pride increases manifold.

President-elect Obama’s second novel, “The Audacity of Hope,” has been critically acclaimed and a New York Times Best Seller. The audiobook even won a Grammy. In light of his other achievements, does this book even matter? To me, it matters a great deal.

Firstly, it’s encouraging to know that even in these rough economic times, people are still buying great books. Of course, the presidential campaign offered plenty of free publicity for Mr. Obama and generated great public interest. But let that be a lesson: A buzzworthy author has the opportunity to drum up plenty of sales.

Secondly, the award-winning extension of the book in the audio format provides plenty of reason for new authors to take note. This is a great day and age, where an author’s creativity isn’t limited to ink and paper. Think digitally and explore new technologies. The potential for earning greater revenue from your work is increasing every day!

Finally, according to the Wikipedia, my favorite online source, the inspiration behind the novel and its very title came from a sermon preached by pastor Rev. Jeremiah Wright. This serves as a reminder for God’s people that when we include Him in our endeavors, we have no choice but to succeed.

Paul, a prolific author in his own right, wrote in Romans 5:5 that hope does not disappoint us. And as Christians, we know that our hope is in God, not man. We don’t know what the next four years will hold, but we can audaciously hope for the best—for our families, our endeavors, and our nation.

I am rejoicing in the audacity of hope. What about you?