By Roshni MulchandaniHis campaign sang hymns of "Change" and a slogan that is now associated with him, "Yes We Can." He can, and he did. On January 20th 2009 past noon, Barack Obama was sworn in as the 44th United States of America and created American and international history. On a lighter note, he was a clearly nervous when he had his hand on President Lincoln's Inaugural Bible from 1861. The poor chap had no idea that he was already the Preident.
There will probably be millions of blog posts circulating the internet about the inauguration afterall, people witnessed history at its finest. Obama spoke from the steps of the U.S. Capitol Building which ironically has been built by slaves in the 1800's. It must have been such a day of honor when an African-American has been bestowed with such a prestigious title and responsility. More than that, what a beautiful day in democracy. Finally, America has spoken in perhaps the "purest" of ways showing that they are aware of the current pain the world is experiencing on every level and the need for a strong leader such as Obama.
His speech had many messages: some for America, some for the rest of the world and some with a double meaning conotation. He spoke to the rest of the world and explained how he believed in humanity. The country gathered around a mall, around laptops and computers, and around television sets. The world watched as a new and young leader took over the America's and has become an American and International leader.
If that wasn't enough of a treat, we were were given an extra dollop of icing when Reverend Lowery gave the benediction after the oaths were over. While his speech compromised of the usual blessings and thanks to God, we also heard a comical and yet sensible conclusion which made everyone smile:
"We ask you (God) to help us work for that day when black will not be asked to get in back, when brown can stick around ... when yellow will be mellow ... when the red man can get ahead, man; and when white will embrace what is right."
The feeling: Amazing. The sight: Spectacular. Obama is a leader of today and ultimately has shown every minority that it is possible as long as you keep your eye on the ball and put your heart into it. He is today's America. He has a varied and colored heritage, he believes in a bright future and he wants Change. In a day where bombs and guns are of the norm, where terrorism is trying to ooze into many failed and successful systems, and where the economy is headed down a dark road to recession valley, it was enlightening to see Obama speak of a light at the end.
I consider myself so lucky to be able to firstly be a part of such a beautiful historical moment. It will be documented, told to children down many generations and read in many textbooks across the globe. This morning, I woke up to witness history. It was beautiful.
Today, I add to my list of heroes and idols: Barack Obama.
And in his own words: "For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus — and non-believers. We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth; and because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation, and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass; that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve; that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself; and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace. "
Go President O!
[Picture: Associated Press]
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