Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Post Inaugurational Hope

We had the chance to watch the inauguration of President Obama today while we were in our training class. While there were many in our group who didn't vote for Obama, they were all anxious for the speech, anxious for the history being made. I for one was not in anyway anxious to listen to what Barack had to say, however I was beyond moved by his speech. His whole calmness, demeanor and what appeared to be humility in reguards to the task at hand was impressive. And his eloquence was moving, what a change from our previous president lol.

"We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken; you cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you.

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.

To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect. To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West — know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy. To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.

To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow; to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds. And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to the suffering outside our borders; nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect. For the world has changed, and we must change with it."

President Obama, we as your people will stand behind you, and pray that you will lead our country for good that you will do all that you promise and we hope that you will help to change our world.

PS Reverend Lowrey, please lay off whatever drugs you smoking that would cause you to give such a "unique" benediction. Who says this???

“We ask you to help us work for that day when black will not be asked to get 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.”


3 comments:

Paige and Family said...

That reverend really said that?? wth??

Unknown said...

I liked it.. I hope that he's what this country needs to come together again. We sure need it!!

Cris, Jon, Austin and Ethan said...

I love Barrack Obama!