On Sept. 4, I awoke with my first college hangover. My head pounded, my heart was torn, and I was hesitant to leave my dorm-room bed to venture beyond the sheltered and secure walls of learning.

Although the previous day was the first day of school here at Bates College, I can’t say that classes accounted for the day’s life lessons.

I know what you’re thinking. Read the word hangover and one assumes I spent the night drinking.

I didn’t party that night. I spent it the liberal arts way, watching Sarah Palin’s speech to the Republican National Convention.

It was not the conservative symbolism that got me. In fact, it was the absence of substance. Palin explained that she was a member of the PTA and coined herself a “hockey mom.” Of all qualities I look for in a leader, I don’t see how watching your kid play a sport and delivering snacks qualifies you for high office.

Turning off the TV, I knew something was wrong, that our country had lost its way, and that without a guide we may never find our path. When McCain believes our country is on the right track; when millions lose jobs and oil addiction dictates our standing in the world; and when we fight a war never worth starting, we are losing battle against ourselves.

As my hangover looms large, I am worried to venture past my sheltered walls of hope.

Michael Pasek, Lewiston