In the Presence of Greatness: The Inauguration of President Barack Obama

January 20, 2009: Today, I felt my heart take flight. I felt the hope and inspiration; you feel when you are in presence of true greatness. January 20, 2009, will always remain the day when not only the United States but the rest of the world felt a wave of good faith, hope and camaraderie. The day the first black U.S. president, lifted the weight of a troubled world onto his shoulders. I was a part of history, be it that I was in attendance from the warmth of my own bedroom.

President Obama, currently enjoys an approval of 80 per cent on the other hand Bush, leaves office with the lowest ratings in modern presidential history. Often times when you'd see President Bush making a public appearance, you couldn't help but feel "Hey, I could do that!" President Obama is a stark contrast.

The composure and the intellect displayed by President Obama, is few and far apart. The clam serene posture of a knowledgeable, yet youthful President brings about an inspirational jump start in us. "Us" as a people, transcending age, race, religion and all other barriers that have divided us.
Million strong crowds were present all around the Mall to witness the moment in a country with a glum history of slavery. He was quick to point out the difference in situation now and his great gratitude to the heroes of the past, which fought for the possibility of the First Black President. For many of the senior black citizens, President Obama's successful run for the presidency not only represents a long-overdue shattering of the race barrier, but a return to honor in politics the likes of which hasn't been seen since Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy.

President Obama's address true to his style was well delivered and matter of fact. He didn't sugar coat his speech, he reminded Americans of the mammoth challenges confronting him and the country, in the face of the ongoing economic crisis and the wars being fought by the nations. President Obama was curt while he acknowledged the magnitude of the problems he has inherited and took responsibility of them.

The outpouring of goodwill towards President Obama surpasses our borders. He brings about a great hope in us all, at this time of great change.
May there be change!