Short Take On Inauguration Day 01/20/2009

We wept and prayed and cheered while watching the 44th president take the oath of office. Hundreds of people gathered for a free inauguration viewing at the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel where the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King was assassinated. Elders silently nodded and swayed and wiped tears, particularly at the reference to forebearers whose efforts and sacrifices paved the way of this day. Children leaned closer as adults explained the proceedings. Off to the right, off to the left and throughout this multigenerational, multiethnic group someone would clap or shout  “Amen” periodically to emphasize points they agreed with, underscoring President Barack Obama’s desire to revitalize the economy, promote public service and maintain the country’s status as a beacon, change agent in the world.