Four years ago today, a group of us were in Washington, DC to witness the inauguration of President Obama.
What a spectacular time that was!
Not one of us gathered thought we'd live to see a black president, so this was monumental beyond measure.
What was also extraordinary were the masses of people, and in those masses were large numbers of old black folks . . . many moving slow and some being pushed in wheelchairs. But with that, you could see steely determination in their eyes, as they willed their bodies to cooperate, to be a part of this history making day.
Honestly, as we witnessed the grueling campaign, many of us were concerned about the safety of Candidate Obama and his family. For those of us who lived through the assassinations of the 60's, this was a real concern.
How thrilled we were that he won, and that we were there, in the flesh, bearing witness to history.
The day was frigid. It was absolutely the coldest day I've ever experienced. The wind was howling, but we were too excited to consider shelter and the warmth we'd find therein. We had come this far, and we were determined to see it through.
The day did not disappoint.
It was phenomenal, in every way.
Being a part of the millions gathered, moving in waves to find that perfect spot, was incredible.
Although we were far away, our eyes were transfixed on the screens, and our responses to the words spoken, moved through the crowds like ripples of water.
What a day!
Now, on this day, it happens again.
To all the people there, recognize what an honor and privilege it is, and bask in the glory of it all.
To those not there in the flesh. That's OK, too. Recognize, no matter where you are, that this truly is a special day.
The fact that this second inauguration is happening on Martin Luther King's Day, is the icing on the cake.
Here's wishing President Obama, his family, and we the citizens of this great land, a wonderful four more years.
What a spectacular time that was!
Not one of us gathered thought we'd live to see a black president, so this was monumental beyond measure.
What was also extraordinary were the masses of people, and in those masses were large numbers of old black folks . . . many moving slow and some being pushed in wheelchairs. But with that, you could see steely determination in their eyes, as they willed their bodies to cooperate, to be a part of this history making day.
Honestly, as we witnessed the grueling campaign, many of us were concerned about the safety of Candidate Obama and his family. For those of us who lived through the assassinations of the 60's, this was a real concern.
How thrilled we were that he won, and that we were there, in the flesh, bearing witness to history.
The day was frigid. It was absolutely the coldest day I've ever experienced. The wind was howling, but we were too excited to consider shelter and the warmth we'd find therein. We had come this far, and we were determined to see it through.
The day did not disappoint.
It was phenomenal, in every way.
Being a part of the millions gathered, moving in waves to find that perfect spot, was incredible.
Although we were far away, our eyes were transfixed on the screens, and our responses to the words spoken, moved through the crowds like ripples of water.
What a day!
Now, on this day, it happens again.
To all the people there, recognize what an honor and privilege it is, and bask in the glory of it all.
To those not there in the flesh. That's OK, too. Recognize, no matter where you are, that this truly is a special day.
The fact that this second inauguration is happening on Martin Luther King's Day, is the icing on the cake.
Here's wishing President Obama, his family, and we the citizens of this great land, a wonderful four more years.
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