A New Dawn

As I sit here watching Barack Obama - about to be sworn in as President of the United States, I'm filled with overwhelming feelings of optimism and pride. This day means so much to so many. It represents the shattering of barriers and the re ignition of hope in our future as individuals, as a nation, and as a global community.

Much is expected of President Obama. He, and we as a nation, face unprecedented problems. This nation has gotten so very off track. Few people would deny that at this moment.

Today, there is a feeling of belief that we can turn this around, get back on track and head in a new direction.

We can all be proud of the fact that our nation is changing course in such a powerful and profound way.

We have elected our first African American President. This, in and of itself, is a testament to the greatness of this nation. We have also elected a man who is a great leader. He is brilliant, inspired and articulate.

I hope that this feeling that we all have today, carries us through the hard work that lies ahead. ALL of us have work to do to change this nation's course and our individual and collective destinies.

We must be patient. Barack Obama is not going to be able to walk in there and totally change our course singled handed. We, as a people, must exert enormous influence on ALL our elected officials, as only 'the people' can to make sure that President Obama is not thwarted in his attempts to bring us together and move us forward.

Some will want to see him fail. Some will want to impose their own agenda, and thwart a larger vision. We must not let them succeed. As a people, we must DEMAND that our elected officials put aside the bickering and self interest driven policies of the past, and do what's best for the people of this nation and the people of this world!

Good Luck to you President Obama! I hope and pray that you will be successful in your attempts to change the course of this nation, and restore America's standing in the world of nations.