Inauguration

Deborah, Denise (Deb's Mom), and I were fortunate to recieve tickets for a family friend of the Shauers and we headed down to the Mall on Tuesday.  Leading up to big event, the city had been buzzing for weeks and excitement was visible and tense.  It was a party.  DC had been going gangbusters all weekend (leading to many local fleeing the city to get out of the way) and the city had been warning everyone about all the new restrictions and the crowds.  So the morning of, we all headed down starting at 6:30 AM.  Luckily, we live out towards the end of the Metro system (DC's subway) so we were able to board.  Within two more stations, the train was so packed no other passengers were able to fit.  We got down to Union Station just behind the Capitol and the throngs of people were amazing.  The line to get in to our section stretched for blocks, but once they openned the gate, things moved efficiently.  I wish the TSA had been there to see how to run a security line.  Our seats were right under the dias, close enough that we could see rather clearly.  The crowds stretched out behind us going all the way down the mall to the Lincoln Memorial.  The crowd was so jubilant, so loud, and excited it felt like a football game or a rock concert.  The proceedings were fun to watch and I especially liked the performance with Yo-yo Ma, Itzak Pearlman (sp?) and others.  I appreciated Mr. Obama's speech and was amazed by the whole thing.  Whether or not I agree with his policies, I was proud to be there and proud to be American.  That may sound stupid or cheesy, but here in the midst of everything we are struggling with, and an outgoing administration on the opposite side as the one coming in, I was there to salute the nation that had elected and was inaugurationg Barack Obama.  Only here.

I do have several other observations.  Once again, the treatment of George Bush was tasteless with him being booed and jeered by the crowd.  I gave him a standing ovation, the office of the presidency deserves that respect.  While impressive and majestic, I felt uneasy about the mood in some ways.  I heard no chants or cheers for the US, only for Obama.  The crowd worshipped and adored him in way that went beyond what I believe the presidency is supposed to be.  I think that Mr. Obama's genius and true gift lies in the fact that he understands this and while it allows him to push for what he believes is right, he is honorable enough not to abuse it, to respect the limitations of his office and power.  I truly hope he succeeds in the presidency, though I may not agree with his policy ideas.  Here are some photos.