At 11am today, I gathered around a television with several of my colleagues to watch the inauguration of President Obama. Aside from me, the group consisted of a Hispanic, an African-American, and a Muslim-American. All of us have different beliefs but we watched because we hope that in the future we will be in a better situation than we are currently in. We watched because there is nothing greater to witness than humanity gathered in the name of peace.
One of my colleagues is a Republican Alderman for a Chicago suburb, and even he watched and applauded the country in action. Even though his preferred candidate didn’t win, he told me he respects democracy and wants nothing but the best for our new President. All across the country, even those who disagree with his politics, feel energized at our country united.
But not everyone was watching. A few people where I work turned up their radios, attempting to drown out what everyone else was listening to. Not everyone was dancing, not everyone had a smile on their face.
With much excitement also comes much fear.
What if expectations are too high? What if we are putting too much of the responsibility on one person and not enough on ourselves?
What if President Obama isn’t successful with the changes he seeks?
While these questions might be better suited for another day, they are all legitimate questions that we must face as Americans. President Bush exits with some of the lowest approval numbers of all time, but it wasn’t that long ago when Mr. Bush was a revered President who was leading us through a difficult chapter.
The bottom line is President Obama is in charge for the next 4 years. Marathons are completed one step at a time. Yesterday was a glorious event and something many will tell their grandchildren about, but I am a cautious to say the worst is behind us. We wish him luck on reinventing america.
Don’t forget, the days that matter most are the ones upcoming. As I watched and marveled at the human spirit, I can’t help but wonder what the next 4 years will bring. Three cheers for democracy, but don’t let down your guard.
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