Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Obama takes oath as 44th US president

The historic day is finally here! It was a beautiful moment to watch as President Obama took his oath even if he did flub* it a bit. It turns out that Chief Justice John Roberts made a mistake and misplaced the word "faithfully" in the oath*: ABOUT THAT OATH FLUB (link via msnbc.com) I thought President Obama's inaugural speech was superb. He's such a great orator and his speech was strong but also full of optimism. I love this: "If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible, who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time, who still questions the power of our democracy," he said, "tonight is your answer." That was such a stirring speech. Indeed, I found the whole ceremony to be incredibly moving although I admit I cringed with all the prayers and references to God (what happened to separation of church and state?) but I still think the ceremony was beautiful. It was a momentous moment in history and it brought tears to my eyes. I enjoyed watching all the news coverage after the inauguration too because the reporters mingled with the crowd outside the Capitol to get their reactions. It was great to see so many happy people (and not just Americans) and listen to their comments which were full of hope and optimism for the future. One man was actually an immigrant from Kenya and he spoke about what the first African American president meant to him and to his children who were born in America. President Obama (I love saying that!) has a great many challenges to face now but I have great hope for our future with him leading the country. What did you think of his speech? What did you think of the ceremony? Edited to add: This is cool: The White House has a blog and a Twitter account.

4 comments:

  1. I didn't watch any of it!
    I'm pleased for all my American friends and I'm sure the world at large will become a better place as well. xx

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  2. It remains to be seen how much things will change but the new president has given Americans a real sense of optimism and hope for the future.

    I'm impressed that he has already moved to stop tribunals at Guantanamo Bay.

    He also had a message for the rest of the world: “know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity; and that we are ready to lead once more.” But he said that those who threaten the United States would be defeated and could be outlasted.

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  3. Loved it all and I love that blog thank you! Made me proud to be here.

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  4. You're welcome, Sarah and I'm so glad you feel that way!

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