It would be an understatement to say that I am not familiar with American presidential inaugurations. Today was my first complete viewing of an inauguration ceremony and the only one that I cared enough to watch live.
Regardless of my ignorance, I think political pundits will agree with my assessment that President Obama gave a beautiful speech. His acknowledgment of a hard road ahead, the need for cooperation between people of different backgrounds and a lengthy appeal to other countries are, I think, unprecedented in the history of inaugural speeches (correct me if I'm wrong). Obama's description of America as a "patchwork" society is almost, dare I say, Canadian in its attitude; an appreciation for the various colours rather than painting everything red, white and blue in one fell swoop.
When Obama first appeared in the hall leading out to the steps of the US Capitol, I had to catch my breath. I believed that I had experienced a saturation point on all things Obama and yet, seeing him walk calmly and confidently out got me excited all over again. It is a testament to the man's ability to connect with the average person that I felt like I was watching a friend when Obama flubbed the oath of office; I felt worried and protective. Thankfully, it was clear when Obama began his speech that he would be just fine.
As the speech continued, my gaze drifted momentarily to George W. Bush. It occurred to me that Bush's eight years of power were wasted in such a ridiculous fashion that the man should be put on trial for crimes against humanity. Instead, I will have to be satisfied with Bush being ostracized by his own party and sent into exile to Dallas, Texas. I would pity the man if I thought he had an inkling of what an embarrassment his terms in office have been.
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2 comments:
My co-workers were huddled around my laptop at work, listening to the streaming audio from CBC radio. It was a great speech, and exactly what America needed to hear to inspire it in dark times.
Obama has the potential to be a great president... but part of me still lingers on the inauguration speech given 8 years ago from George W. Bush. He then spoke of the principles of unity, courage, responsibility, and compassion. Sadly, the speech was not representative of his presidential terms.
You know, I'm going to take that previous comment back. It's ridiculous to compare George W. Bush to Barack Obama in that way.
I guess what I'm trying to say is that all the campaigning and inauguration fuss is just a prelude to today. It's Obama's first full day in office, and it's from this point forward that will will see the true character of Barack Obama.
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