Toady I witnessed history. On this day, for the 44th time, the United States has elected a new person to be the President. But for the the first time that person is not white. Barack Obama was sworn in this morning and I was there to watch it all. Well, I wasn't actually in Washington, but I did take the time to watch it online. We actually watched it as a staff at Word of Peace. FOr our staff meeting we gathered in the youth room and sat in silence as we watched the events unfold.
I think the biggest surprise of the event itself was how much it centered around God. Now I know that there is this whole separation of church and state, but on a day like this there is no evidence of that. The inauguration is even built like a church service with an invocation, song, message, poetry, special music, and benediction. The swearing in takes place on a Bible and it is tradition for the new first family to go to church before the day kicks off.
Is this just tradition? I don't think so. Deep down it seems like everyone knows that there is a higher power out there. That we would not be capable of doing this on our own. That our inspiration and abilities come from an al-knowing, all-loving, all-powerful God above that is watching over us. The sad part is how many people then turn around and have a problem with manger scenes and the 10 commandments posted near government buildings and schools.
Another small surprise was how no matter the age we were old or young, all of us couldn't remember the last time so many people were so excited about the new president of the United States. That there was a great rallying point for the country and hope was something so thick we could hold on to it. Now the goal is to not let that hope slip through our fingers, or let go of it at the first sign of trouble. Because there will no doubt be ups and downs in this administration.
God, please bless this country and all who work for the common good. Amen
dain
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