I watched Barack Obama's Inauguration from Times Square last week, and felt so proud and blessed to be an American. Although I've grown up in THE most patriotic town in America (Bristol, RI has the oldest 4th of July Parade in the country, and celebrates year round with red, white, and blue stripes down our main street), I haven't felt very patriotic during the past, oh, eight years. Originally, I was scheduled to work breakfast/lunch, but because our lunch was not looking busy, I was let off just in time to step out onto the square. What an experience... I was surrounded by the most excited and thrilled New Yorkers and tourists... we were strangers talking freely, hugging freely, letting tears of happiness run freely; rejoicing in celebration of this momentous occasion. I stood next to two women who were as thrilled as I, and two British gentlemen (who were psyched to be in town for this unique, historic American event). They had many questions, about the outgoing VP in the wheelchair, the trivia questions on CNN (i.e. "Obama is the 5th youngest president", etc.), and we were proud to answer them. It was an interesting moment to reflect, and realize that "Wow!", not many other countries vote for their leader, and I wonder if any have had 44 presidents. I take so much for granted... and I don't believe I am the only one.
More thoughts to follow...
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