Unless you are living under a rock, or geocaching in a 3rd world country, you know that Barack Obama was sworn in yesterday as the 44th president of the United States. I had the events playing in the background while I worked, and was able to watch as he took his oath. It was truly a momentous day and I’m proud to say that I was a part of it.
I’ve had a chance to digest the events, think about them, and study my reactions. These are my thoughts on yesterday’s inauguration:
I think it’s pretty amazing that there were 1.8 million people in and around the National Mall, and there were no problems. Seriously. Not a single arrest according to USA Today. Now that is a truly a feat. Could we, as a nation, possibly be coming together afterall?
How cool is it that Obama was sworn in with the same bible that Abraham Lincoln was sworn in with? That fills me with a sense of wonder. I alternate between thinking they were crazy to let the book out of the archives in that weather, and thinking that the person who thought of it should win some kind of an award.
Of course I loved Michelle’s inaugural ensemble. I found it very regal and fitting. I’m thrilled she decided against something red, white, and/or blue, which is so obvious and cliché.
I’m a total hypocrite, but while I still agree in the separation of church and state and was annoyed by all of the praying yesterday ((It’s an inauguration, not a church social.)), I have to admit that the quote from Scriptures couldn’t have been more fitting.
“…the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come…to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea…that all are equal, all are free and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.”
Oh yeah, I thought the rest of the inauguration speech kicked ass too.
I absolutely loved Malia and Sasha. What a pair of spunky, beautiful girls. The secret service is going to have their hand full with those two!
Could Beyonce have sounded any better at the Neighborhood Ball? ((Bitch!)) I think, however, this is the first time she’s been on stage, and was upstaged.
With such a long and event-filled day, there was bound to be some crap:
While I’m the antithesis of a Bush supporter, the booing when he was announced was tacky and in poor taste. The man was the leader of the free world for eight years, and as such does deserve a little respect.
She may have been the Queen of Soul at one point, ((20 years ago!)) but she certainly did not sound regal (or even good) yesterday. I was a little embarrassed for her. And what was with that horrible hat?
Since this was the first inauguration I’ve ever paid attention to, I was surprised by all of the religion (especially with all of the fuss regarding the separation of church and state). As I mentioned previously, I thought the Scriptures quote was á propos, the rest, however, was a little too much for me.
I have to say the low point for me was Sting. Anyone who knows me, knows that I love Sting. Always have. Not only is he so talented he can leave a band like The Police and do even better solo, he’s just H-O-T! I liked his Dune phase. ((Sting in black leather–what’s not to love.)) I was okay with the long hair, mid-life crisis phase. I adore the super-short, yoga thing. I do not, however, approve of the I’m-a-lumberjack-and-I’m-okay phase.
Enough said.
Now it’s your turn. What did you love or hate about Barack Obama’s inauguration? Let me know what should be on my love/hate list, and why.
Tags: 44th president, Barack Obama, election 2008, inauguration speech, politics, presidents, thoughts
I have to admit that what this inauguration symbolises brings a tear to my eye. And the quote you posted certainly pushed one tear over the threshold but I’m still holding out. I believe he can do great things – there’s no doubt in that. I also believe that evil has a way of destroying hope when its needed the most… so I want to wait just that much longer before completely breaking down and saying, ‘Thank god (for lack of a better phrase really) that time is here, we can all live in peace’.
You big softie!
I am cautiously optimistic for the future and am hoping that, while there may be a few dark days ahead, the U.S. is looking at a brighter future.
I think one of the things I loved most about the day, (and I did watch the ENTIRE DAY, an absolute 1st for me) was the fact that there are children in the White House again. And not just as eye-candy for the press, but as children, as part of a ‘family”. These two people are dedicated to their children, and that gives me renewed hope that Obama and Michelle are also dedicated, as every parent should be, to making this country a better place to live, for every child. A very important aspect for me because of Zach & Jonah.
Another tear jerker was Obama looking at her during their 1st dance and saying “Hello my love.” Here are two people so obviously in love, and not in the distant “keep up appearances dear” way we’ve seen for so long from our leaders. They are in love, and had no problem letting an entire world watch that!
Also, he TALKED to the crowd, joking and refering often to Michelle. He let the world know they are equals, and that she will have more of a role in this presidency than just as a “fashion plate.” No gown could have taken away from or added to her composue, and the self assurance she exuded the
entire day.
The best part for me? I truly like and believe in these two people. As I said, I watched all day, but it was watching two people I liked, and wanted to know more about!
All in all, a great day!
Mom
I don’t know why I’m always surprised at how eloquent and intelligent you can be. 😛
Thank you for adding an interesting and not-thought-of aspect of the Obama presidency.
Hi there. I really enjoyed this post. I felt exactly the same about the religion and sep. of church and state while watching. It bothered myself and my boyfriend who also made a comment about it (he doesn’t usually offer such blatant opinions). Thanks for an interesting perspective on a very hyped day. Oh and I too thought Michelle looked amazing. Thanks, Veronica
Hi Veronica,
Thank you for taking the time to stop by! Of course, as I go back through my post I realize that on one hand I’m saying “How cool is it that Obama was sworn in with the same bible that Abraham Lincoln was sworn in with?” and on the other hand I’m rallying for the separation between church and state. I did, afterall, admit I was a hypocrite. 🙂
It would have been awesome to be there. We’re all impressed, even up here in Canada 😉
What’s up with all the Canucks! I must have a thing for Canadian bloggers! 😀
I love getting global feedback on American politics–it’s so interesting to hear what other countries think.