Since I am living in DC, I knew I had to go to Mr. Obama’s inauguration. I woke up at 3am and started layering up. I knew it was going to be freezing. I rushed to get to the Metro Station and jumped on the first train the second the door opened. When I finally got off the sardine packed metro, I got in line to the security check. Now try to imagine a line 3 city blocks long, packed so tightly you cannot move your feet except for a short shuffle forward. My legs ached and I was numb from cold. There were moments when I would pick my feet off the ground and stay up in the air from the force of other bodies around me.
I didn’t make it in for the speech. I could hear his voice like a train from a distance. But, I was thrilled to experience the Parade. Right in front of me, the long limo slowly rolled to a stop. The door opened and out walked President Obama and his wife. They raised their hands and waved my direction. Every one was cheering wildly, smiling and hugging.
At that moment, it hit me how much power he has, not just because he is president but because the people love him and the people will listen to whatever he says.
I did have the feeling of hope, but not the way you may think. I hope he doesn’t disappoint them or me. I hope he does not abuse his power. He and we have the chance to do something incredible for this nation or it will be an epic failure.
I think this because our nation is going through a difficult time and being from Michigan, I know full well the worst of it. If we don’t truly come together as a nation and start helping the poor and thinking and loving others as we do our selves our nation will fall. If we can learn how to serve rather then be served we will all be a lot better people. What we do with the space we occupy is the space of change or failure. If we can work on the things we agree on rather then trying to change the things we don’t agree on, I believe we can be much, much more productive. My generation needs to remember how to actually work and work hard from the bottom up and not expect to have the high paying jobs right out of collage. True leaders, lead from experiences that build character. You can always recognize a leader. He is the one with the people following him.
just some thoughts…
wes
if you have any questans or comments feel free to email me at tatum.wes@gmail.com
