After being glued to CNN for all of the inauguration day events and now having time to digest everything, I feel its only right to congratulate President Obama, and the people of our country here on our little corner of the planet – this Blog.
One might ask why? as we generally only discuss all things ocean going. Well, consider this…all aspects of the future of our country are in new hands. That is reason enough.
The inaugural events brought an overwhelming series of emotions for all Americans. There are many factors…simply having a new President, our first African-American President which marks huge strides in civil rights and racial equality, an opportunity to embrace change, and an instilled sense of hope by this administration.
This last one is most prominent. There was one part of Obama’s speech that echoed for some time:
“Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitions — who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans. Their memories are short. For they have forgotten what this country has already done; what free men and women can achieve when imagination is joined to common purpose, and necessity to courage.”
He is not afraid, nor is he plagued by the status quo, nor has he been corrupted by the bureaucracies of the system. This is why we saw the out pour of support yesterday. Obama’s campaign brought out who he really is…one of us. We have elected a leader that represents us, our free will, our dreams, and he came from that same group of people embodied in ‘We the People…’. America needs this type of leadership now more than ever, not another ‘politician’.
Obama’s public appeal has certainly been criticised. However, it is clear that he has a clear understanding of how the world has evolved…with communication technologies in particular, as he’s been able to reach the masses like never before. Continuing to use these tools keeps everyone informed that wants to be informed, and feeling like they are part of the process. We are, and we have every right to be. Historically, the office of the President has been viewed as a hierarchal position that is feared rather than revered by the public. Not in tune with the daily dealings of our country, it is easy to criticize our leaders. Obama is doing it right in striving to be the people’s President, staying connected, in view, and creating a unified voice for this country…it’s his job.
His office will surely be criticized and sharply scrutinized as they all are, but I am confident that strides will be made, as they already have been, in unifying the voice of the people, marching forward for one greater good, and re-instilling confidence in the set of ideals that makes our country so very special.
Hats off to you Mr. President.
Good luck, and Godspeed!
Obama’s Inauguration Speech:
Embedded video from CNN Video