Is there anyone else out there who is afraid?

Back in 1960, I wore a white shirt and dark string black tie in order to become a part of the new frontier. I hoped my future would be filled with Peace Corps activities and with me evolving into becoming an integral part of Camelot.

In 1963, my hopes were crushed. I remember feeling the vacuum of what happens when a person's beliefs are crushed and nothing is put into its place.

I remember being confused to the fact that a man who did not have the same color skin I had could invoke such remarkable hope. I applauded this new face for our future yet did not have the courage to join his quest.

In 1968, I felt distressed. How could anyone hope to destroy a dream by killing its dreamer. I became confused and lost.

But, being young I came back. I remember the excitement of the elections of 1968. I wore the young man's denims hoping to be a part of a new era of belief and trust. I would be part of this new and young future of America.

In 1968, my hopes were crushed. The vacuum returned with drugs and alcohol and defeat taking its place. I cried to myself and swore I would not allow myself to ever open myself up again to trust and hope for my own future.

Now in 2009, as an old man I am again looking up hoping the future of my country will be better than its past. I want to become a part of this tall skinny man's dream of having our nation once again have the all overwhelm the few. I am almost ready to join his crusade.

But, I am afraid. Is there anyone else out there who is afraid?

Jim Fabiano, a teacher and writer who lives in York, is a past recipient of the Maine Press Association’s award for Best Weekly Column, and writes an education blog called 'Dinosaur of Education”. You can E-mail Jim at: jfabino@maine.rr.com, or comment on his blog at:  http://fabiano.magic-city-news.com/