I have hope...

There is no doubt, history was made today. Barack Hussain Obama has taken the oath that 43 men took before him, a promise to faithfully execute the office of President of the United States. As the first African American president, he has an astounding level of support by American citizens, and with that comes an even more astounding level of expectations. Concerning the prominence of the United States, Obama stated in his inauguration speech that, “Greatness is never a given. It must be earned.” We, as a supporting nation, should hope that he takes his own advice, as he faces the challenges of leading our great nation.

But the success of any presidency also depends on the support of American citizens. I have hope… hope that the American people can unite behind our leader. There will be debates on his policies, as there is very little chance that anyone would ever agree with every single choice that any leader ever makes. But in the end, he is our leader, and I have hope that Democrats and Republicans, of all religions, skin tones, and gender, will stand behind our new leader and provide the support of a successful nation.

I have hope that those who booed Former President George W. Bush as he made his exit will come to appreciate how he kept our nation safe following the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

I have hope for those who claimed that upon Obama’s election they were planning to move to Canada… I have hope that they will unite with their fellow citizens and stand behind their nation’s leader.

I have hope that President Obama’s leadership will encourage a unity within our nation that has not been seen in years.

I have hope that, as individuals, we will take President Obama’s advice and “will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.”

What a breathtaking, inspiring, sobering, and historical day.