January 20, 2009 - A New Era

Today was an exciting day for the nation. Barack Obama officially became the 44th president of the United States of America. I was so glad that I got a chance to watch the ceremonies this morning. The support was amazing. There were thousands of people crowding the streets of Washington D.C. Past presidents and vice-presidents were in attendance, including George W. Bush and Dick Cheney. D.C. had to be a crazy place today. It was so great to see everyone coming out onto the stage in a good mood, especially Malia and Sasha Obama. Those 2 girls were excited, and why wouldn't they be? I cannot imagine a 10 and 7 year old watching their father being sworn into the highest office in our country. Despite the turmoil and troubles around us, the country was able to take a break and celebrate a great day, the beginning of a new era.

So maybe President Obama stumbled over his words this morning, but that in itself is not a catastrophe. Plus the man swearing him in was really the one who misplaced the words. But they both laughed it off, continued with the ceremony, and finished with smiling faces. What do the next 4 years hold for our country? Well I cannot give you that answer. What do I think will happen? Honestly, I do not want to guess because there are so many things that could happen. These next 4 years will be a defining moment for all of us as US citizens. Hopefully, one of the first accomplishments will be resolving the economic crisis. But even if that continues for a while, we can still have hope that God will see us through. I trust that President Obama will help us and guide us along through these hard times.

But a new year and a new era have begun. We are setting sail into 2009 with new goals and new dreams. President Obama's life has changed drastically. Malia and Sasha have switched towns and switched schools. Our new first lady, Michelle Obama is adjusting to a new life in the spot light in Washington D.C. And America is facing a new year that could give us hope for the future. I do not know what is on the horizon, but I do know that God is in control, watching over us each day.

May God be with President Obama and his family. May God Bless America.

Matt