Although I didn’t vote for Barak Obama, the significance of this day, the result of Americans raising their collective voice, was not lost. I watched a moment I never dreamed to see, listened to words I never expected to hear, and reveled in emotion I never thought I’d feel.
I skipped school to watch the inauguration of our 44th President. I’m and overachiever and NEVER skip, but had a need to watch another poignant moment in America’s history. I dare any professor to argue or berate my absence.
As a self-proclaimed independent conservative, I was able to put aside my issues with the incoming administration, and watch as an ineffective administration hit the road. That has to say something for who I am and my basic feelings for humanity, not politics. As a mother and wife, I watched the grace and graciousness of Michelle Obama, the poise and beauty of her two little girls, as well as her history making husband. I don’t know how she manages to keep her brood as grounded and humble as they seem to be, something most American families struggle with. I applaud her.
I was touched by Rev. Rick Warren’s prayer, noted the irony of Chief Justice Roberts swearing in the very man who voted against him, enjoyed the instrumental performance, as well as Ms. Aretha Franklin, and listened with a focus I’ve never posessed, the words of our new leader.
I bawled like a baby at different times, swelled up with pride at others, but overall, I finally felt the “it’s a new day” feeling that everyone has talked about. Could it really be a new chapter in our nation’s history? Have we really come as far as we believe we have? Will I be able to watch the next State of the Union address without rolling my eyes or throwing dirty looks?
God Bless America and all who lead us.
