It would seem the answer to both those questions is "yes."
"Life is too short, time is too precious, to dwell on what might have been," Senator Clinton told the crowd assembled in Washington, DC Saturday.
Hillary Clinton went from Park Ridge, Ill. to becoming a presidential candidate. Chicago area Democrats say there is much about which Hillary Clinton can be proud.
"In politics, yes, someone wins, but you're not the loser. You presented your message, it's strong, but unfortunately, citizens voted for the other candidate," Chicago's Mayor Daley said.
Daley is an unabashed Obama supporter, but he says all politicians know one loss, one tough race does not necessarily define a career.
"I really expected Senator Clinton to do that because she's a leader, and that's what leadership is all about," Daley said. "Bitterness?? She should've been around in 1983. This was nothing!"
Barack Obama's colleague in the Senate, Sen. Dick Durbin, would not say Saturday whether Clinton's speech improves her vice presidential prospects.
"Senator Clinton is a very talented person. I'm sure she will be considered, but this process will take tome time before the final decision," Durbin said.
At Rainbow PUSH on the city's South Side, the Rev. Jesse Jackson's focus was on how far America has come with an African-American now heading his party's presidential ticket. Jackson believes civil rights victories in the 1950s and his own presidential bids in the 1980s paved the way for Obama's success.
"This is a victory for America. It's a transformative moment for America. Americans can feel good about this campaign. Americans are better because of this campaign," said Jackson.
Many voters still marvel at the choices they've had in this race for the White House, and the one, big choice that may be still to come.
"At first, I didn't know who to pick because I'm a woman, and I'm a black woman. I had the worst decision to make!" said voter Heiki Jones.
"What a great ticket: A black man and a woman. That would be a great ticket," said Cheryl Shirk, also a voter. "I hope it does [happen]."
