I was about 15 when I found out my grandfather beat my father everyday. He had to hide in the rafters of the barn. When I found out I was so mad at my grandfather for the hurt he caused my father. But he was still my grandfather so I loved him. My father had 11 children and he broke the chain of abuse. When we were sitting at the table one day he said n... about something and I said dad I don't like that word, please don't say it. He looked at me and said you have spunk. Okay I won't I didn't mean to offend it is just what I learned. I disagreed with his words but I dearly loved the man. He lost his arm to a farm accident but continued on and raised 11 with Mom of course. :) I beleive that is the basis of what Obama said. His father left when he was little, maybe he felt like the pastor was a father figure. He respects him for all the good he has done but doesn't agree with him on those words. And have you lsitened to the whole sermon, it is true of America we have used violence for to long. And Clintons camp have done work with the Rev. before. Maybe that's why they kept silent on the subject. Obama does understand both sides and I have no doubt he will do our country good. And move past all the abuses that happen in our country. I see an honest, genuine man in Obama and he will have my help til the end. Which I trully believe will be Nov. and we will welcome hime as President.