RSS
Home
Easy to relish in history, accomplishments of President Obama
Print
Email
RSS
Subscribe
I was there, among the sea of people on January 20 to witness the first African American president get sworn into office. I, like many others, did not have tickets to the inauguration, but I just wanted to be there among other Americans.
Since I live in the Washington DC area, I knew what was ahead of me when I woke up three o'clock in the morning: long lines, millions of people, limited food, lots of walking (and patience). My husband and I got to the National Mall around 5 am to get a good spot. We stood up for more than nine hours to watch the ceremony, and walked more than two hours to leave. It was brutal. I could not feel my feet by 7 am. My back and neck became stiff around 9 am. I have nightmares about what I saw in the porta pottis. But it was worth it. Although it was cold, I met the warmest people that day. We talked to pass the time away. We danced to Garth Brooks and Stevie Wonder when the inaugural concert from Sunday was re-aired, no doubt to keep us warm. We waved our American flags when President Obama and Vice President Joe Biden arrived. We cried while watching President Barack Obama get sworn in. It was a once in a lifetime experience. I will never forget it.
It is easy to relish in history and the accomplishments of President Obama (that has a nice ring to it). But in reality, we are in two wars, our health care system fails to meet the most in need, the ecomony is the worst this country has seen in more than 40 years, and our children are being educated in underperforming schools. President Obama has a lot on his plate. But after hearing Obama's speech, I am hopeful. But, he cannot do it alone. We must use our gifts and talents to make this world better. It makes me think about the famous quote President John F. Kennedy said during his inaugural speech in 1961. He said: "Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country." It upsets me with motor mouths like Rush Limbaugh say things like he wants Obama to fail. I did not agree with Bush's politics, but I never wanted him to fail. In my opinion, if President Obama fails, we all fail. This country fails. The world fails. Failing is not an option. There is too much at stake.
While waiting for the ceremony, I had the opportunity to interview people who woke up as early as 2 am and traveled as far as California to watch this historic event. You can find their stories on my YouTube channel.
Related Articles:
Add a Comment
