Inauguration
I went to the Mall today to see Barack Obama take the oath of office. What I witnessed was something different. I saw America today.
I saw America set apart a day from its labors and process endlessly into Washington to mark this day, even as it knew that there was still work to do tomorrow.
I saw America, shivering in the darkness of a winter night, a collection of strangers, huddling together, waiting for the dawn of a new day.
I saw America, its head raised in song, spontaneously singing its own praises. I saw America bow its head in prayer, begging Heaven for its deliverance. I saw its men with tears streaming down their faces, its women laughing with joy.
I saw America cheer, an uncounted number from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial, leaping at once and waving flags at the echoes of the new President swearing--so help me God--and the congratulations of the Chief Justice--Congratulations, Mister President.
I saw America depart, bewildered, amazed; stumbling into the cold light of a new day.
I saw America set apart a day from its labors and process endlessly into Washington to mark this day, even as it knew that there was still work to do tomorrow.
I saw America, shivering in the darkness of a winter night, a collection of strangers, huddling together, waiting for the dawn of a new day.
I saw America, its head raised in song, spontaneously singing its own praises. I saw America bow its head in prayer, begging Heaven for its deliverance. I saw its men with tears streaming down their faces, its women laughing with joy.
I saw America cheer, an uncounted number from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial, leaping at once and waving flags at the echoes of the new President swearing--so help me God--and the congratulations of the Chief Justice--Congratulations, Mister President.
I saw America depart, bewildered, amazed; stumbling into the cold light of a new day.