I pledge allegiance to...

President Barack Obama! At last, at last he's been sworn in and it's all happening now, history is now. It's officially Day 3 already. You'd think with my countdown I would've written the day of the inauguration, but I needed some time to absorb it all. (I also wrote a little diddy on the Arth blog that corresponds). So, where were you on Day 1? I was stuck at the Blue show thing for work so I was kind of bummed that I couldn't go to one of the rallies in Times Square or Harlem or in Queens. I was ready to bring the radio, but thankfully there was a lounge at the show with a big screen and everyone started gathering inside.

I made it just in time to see President Obama sworn in, which despite the awkwardness (I guess they had to do it over again to be official), was still exciting and the applauding, hooting, and smiling began. It was such a great energy to share together with others. Then came the speech. Man, a speech of a lifetime. It was well paced, intelligent, open minded, and so poetic. It will definitely be quoted for years to come. My favorite part was this (so beautifully written):
"To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history, but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist."

I thought he covered all his bases well and at times, his speech was even solemn which felt honest. He spoke to each of us from his heart and we all felt it. I do hope, if anything, President Obama will restore a positive energy to us Americans and to other nations. With his support, we have to do better, we have to think better. His last words are unforgettable:
"America, in the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words; with hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come; let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations."

At the end, my boss (who has been living in the US for 5 years, originally from Japan) said to me, "This is a great country. You're so lucky to be an American." Let's not forget that.


p.s. Google people, you are going to have to update your spell check to make "Obama" an official word!