The founding fathers didn't know what they started when the words "All men are created equal" were included in the Declaration of Independence. Many of them were slave owners.

They did include in the Constitution a self-corrective process that after 225 years came to fruition on Nov. 4, 2008. The election of Barack Obama to the 44th presidency of the most powerful nation of the world is so extraordinary it will go down in history as a "watershed of democracy." From a nation that counted Afro-Americans as only 3/5th of the population to one that elected an Afro-American to the highest office in the land moves America into the "more perfect union" category.

I have supported his candidacy from the beginning after reading his two books. His prophetic voice and Christian inclusiveness give hope for us to reach the promised land.

My generation was infected by Jim Crow segregation, by the Great Depression and World War II. The new generation was not impressed by war heroes. The neo-conservatives who stole the Republican Party and led us into two wars, unilateralism and huge debt were repudiated as much as the religious right who singled out gay marriage and abortion as major issues.

Against the status quo, Obama appealed to a new generation and a cultural diversity to win the election.

His campaign was flawless and mainly generated hope for even a 106-year-old woman who stood in line for two hours to vote in Atlanta. Obama fits between the generations, and gives a counter-culture that rejects pre-emptive war, divisiveness based on wealth and the disregard of our heritage.

He projects a new America with international implications as a partner in resolving the violence of terrorism and the disparities of wealth. Torture can be wiped out by executive order and the infamous Gitmo closed.

I became attracted to Obama when he turned down lucrative law offers to serve the poor in south Chicago. Here he also found Michelle, whom he called "his rock" of stability. She will make a great First Lady and confidante.

Both John McCain and Obama lifted up sacrifice to bring hope alive. After Jan. 20, I hope his cabinet will include the best and ablest from both parties. People like Richard Lugar, Colin Powell and Lee Hamilton can present an open front that will bring the trust and confidence that Washington has lost.

His mention of Lincoln is a reminder that he, too, had no military experience but was wise enough to surround himself with wise counsel, to listen to those who disagreed, to act after consultation, and to apply his great mind to seek answers based on reality and principle.

One of the commentators quoted Nehemiah, who called the people of Jerusalem with "let us rebuild the wall" it is the "us, we, our," not "me, mine, I" that will accomplish the formidable task of re-building America. We have a new Nehemiah.

Amen until next Wednesday.

The opinions in this column are solely those of the writer. Wolf is a retired minister and lives in Valparaiso. Write to him c/o The Times, 1111 Glendale Blvd., Valparaiso, IN 46383.