>I don’t live in New York.

That said, New York politicos often get a lot of press, even out here in the thawing and muddy midwest.
And the dark cloud over Eliot Spitzer has spawned a silver lining: David Paterson.
It’s exciting to see an African American take the leadership of an important state. To me, it’s even more exciting to see this talented and intelligent blind man take on this leadership role. Attention all nay-sayers and condescending sighted folk: Watch him in action. You’ll see his skills are not dependent on twenty-twenty vision, but intelligent thought and professional experience.
Apparently, if I’m reading between the lines correctly, he’s a large-print reader rather than Braille. I have no indication whether he uses a white cane for mobility or not. but the major message in his position is this: A blind person can be successful. Very successful. Hard work plus talent placed Paterson in the right place at the right time to take on a very challenging position. All indications are that he will handle the responsibilities well.

And as a hearing impaired adult and mother to a blind teenager, I send my congratulations. Please excuse me if I cheer loudly for a little while, too.