Inauguration Day

Today I watched CNN as the 44th President of the United States, Barack H. Obama, was sworn into office. The speech he gave was uplifting and strong. It signaled the end of how things have been done in the recent past and the start of something new and fresh. President Obama set himself apart from former President Bush by noting differences to come.

The following passage is what I found to be the strongest part of Obama's Inauguration speech.



"We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus - and non-believers. We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth; and because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation, and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass; that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve; that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself; and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace.


To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect.
To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West - know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy. To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist."



For a full version of the transcript, visit http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/Inauguration/Story?id=6689022&page=1.

There are high expectations for President Obama. I am truly excited to see how he handles the pressure and privilege of being President of the United States. I am anxious to watch this unfolding and positive chapter of US history. The introduction has been read, now lets continue to watch as the rest of the story is written.