This has all been said, by many more impressive writers and speakers, but I’ll reiterate.
On this historic day, there is certainly cause for hope, even jubilation, as we welcome our new President, Barack Obama. It’s important to remember, however, that the bulk of his task, and our own, is yet ahead of us. If we are to restore America’s image internationally, if we are to heal our economy, if we are to rebuild our infrastructure, develop our technology, and become energy independent, then we must not lose the momentum and energy that we as a nation have built.
Celebrate, yes, but do not relax, for today begins a great journey for the American people. Today, we must realize that we all have a hand in America’s destiny, and that our differences in ideology and belief serve not to divide us, but instead strengthen the whole. Let us remain interested and involved as we begin to secure and improve our future. Let us continue to come together to debate policy, discuss solutions, and generate new ideas. Every American, young and old, conservative and liberal, religious and non, has something to contribute to this great undertaking — as long as we don’t return to apathy simply because power has been successfully transferred.
This is not the finish line. This is the starter’s pistol.
I hope you hear it too.