The star-spangled dust from the inauguration has almost settled and I thought what a better way to get back into my blogging then to discuss my thoughts on the events. Instead of speaking my mind right away, I have sat back and listened to all the reactions of Obama becoming the big cheese or as my niece says so eloquently, “The President of the United States of America”. (Oh Isabella, you are destined to change the world one day).Most of the comments were centred on excitement, change, happiness, and hope however I was shocked to still encounter negative input from the usual skeptics - “Why is everyone acting like he is the Messiah”, “He is only half black” , “Democrats are going to make the market worse”, “Canadian’s should care more about our own elections”. The list goes on and on and I’m super impressed that I didn’t pounce on a few of these comments as they were said.
Tuesday was a refreshing change for world to watch or should I say feel. I can’t remember a time when I have witnessed millions of people smiling and hugging each other. Did you know that not one fight took place that day within the crowd? I can’t remember a time when people felt empowered to take responsibility for their own actions and for each other. I can’t remember a time when people were more accepting of change then they are now. For me, Obama has restored my faith in the ability that one person can make a difference.
Regardless of his family tree, religion or political preference, I think that Obama should be admired by all those skeptics for his intelligence, his drive, his charisma, and for how his words and ideas are inspiring the world. Like religion, you may not agree with everything but if someone or something lifts the spirits of people it is a good thing, and should be respected. As for any negative comments that revolve around race, I simply loose respect for these people. How embarrassing that such ignorance still exists today. How many movies does Disney have to make in order for these people stop judging a book by its cover?
As for Canada, I hope the inspiration from this event will have a ripple effect on us. I love being Canadian (although winter often makes me second guess that feeling) but I wish the Prime Minister or any member of a party would stand up and remind me why it is great to be a Canadian. What are they doing to inspire us to want to work hard and support Canada? What are they doing to remind us where we’ve come from, why we must preserve and protect Canada and want to make it a better place? Instead of telling us why one party is better than another tell us how you plan on turning things around or at the very lease inspire us!
As Obama has so beautifully mentioned in his speeches, change does not come over night but I’m already impressed with the mark he has made.
