I took this photo at an Obama rally in Austin, Texas, on February 22, 2008. For the first time I could remember, the Democratic primary meant something in Texas. Both candidates were courting our state -- and its large delegate count -- something fierce. At the time, I was undecided but leaning reluctantly toward Hillary Clinton.

Years of working as a messenger in the Texas House of Representatives had left me cynical about politicians. Sure, that was over 20 years ago, but I haven't seen much of anything to change that perception. I'd seen young idealistic Reps show up at the capitol ready to change the world . . . only to be bogged down by a system that requires constant compromise to get anything done. They had to become what they hated. Because of this, I was skeptical of the Obama campaign and message. He was speaking to audiences as if they were adults. Could he keep that up under the pressure he would experience to do otherwise? Could such a message be successful in today's sound-byte driven media coverage? Would he stoop to the usual pandering and mud-slinging? Before the rally, I was afraid to believe. I admit that I still am; I've been let down by too many politicians before. I decided, however, to cast my primary vote for him. And, while I can't say he hasn't ever let me down, he certainly has a much better track record than his primary opponent. I'm happy with the vote I cast and hope to vote the same way in November.