The day the world stood still

Today . . . .Was the day the world stood still. It stood still to witness a great change in America.

Mothers, fathers and children of every race and every creed witnessed what will inevitably be a historic period in this country. I watched in awe as Barack Obama took the oath and witnessed Chief Justice Roberts almost screw it up. I watched, from my parents living room, the millions and millions of people whose expressions symbolized what my heart felt these last few months. The unspeakable joy that change in America has manifested this day.

I listened to the speech that will forever be echoed through the hearts and minds of all Americans like the words of Martin Luther King, John F. Kennedy and Frederick D. Roosevelt and couldn't help but wonder if they were there to witness it all, because in my mind our spirits live on long after our bodies have turned to dust. What a prophecy that has been fulfilled. Martin called it and he knew America would indeed embrace it. Why? Because like Obama said in his speech . . .

"For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. 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."

Our common link is that we all have struggled. Be it a struggle for racial or educational equality, peace, financial stability or justice. Now we must unite as one people. We must put our past hurts behind us. We must educate ourselves and our children, because as I am finding out from reading the works of WEB Dubois and Frederick Douglas education leads to freedom.

We have now moved from Before Obama (BO) to During Obama (DO) and I can't wait to see what my children will witness After Obama (AO). The skies are the limit and my hope in all things great has been reignited. Let freedom ring!