Posted by By J E Solomon
The inauguration of Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States,
was as historic as it was inspirational. The nearly two million crowd, described
simply as a “sea of humanity” was, indeed, one of euphoria. It was one in which
black or white didn’t matter and only the most intrinsic human values mattered.
As I monitored the event on TV and frequently changed channels in frenzied
efforts to catch a bit of everything occurring before the actual ceremony,
the feeling that was generated by this memorable occasion was, to me, very
ecstatic. It was clear that it just wasn’t about Obama. It wasn’t about black,
white or colored people. What was very evident was a united souls of America,
excited and elated with a common purpose – a yearning to move this nation forward.
And it was such a thrill. You could see it. You could feel it. This, certainly,
was the day the Lord had made.
As the world watched President Barack Obama deliver his inaugural speech at the
US Capitol, the expectations of many were high. With two wars, a battered economy,
shuttered businesses, a staggerring unemployment rate, many homes lost to
foreclosures, it was clear that America faced real challenges.
The President stated that Americans have chosen hope over fear. He proclaimed
an “end to the petty grievances and false promises” that have plagued American
politics for far too long.
President Obama promised that America will once again take her leading role in the
world as she seeks a “new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect.”
He reminded Americans that “we are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and
Hindus – and non-believers” and noted that Americans are a people shaped by every
language and culture on this Earth.