Tuesday marked in a historic moment in United States history as Barack Obama was sworn in as the 44th President. Despite political party preferences, we can all agree that the event can only be described as significant. President Obama brings a message of hope over fear and unity of purpose over conflict and fear. Watching the event on television, I felt filled to overflowing with the tremendous optimism and hope of freedom-loving people around the world.
Many people who suffered through rising gas prices, the attack on the World Trade Center, inability to afford health care, and the loss of income or a home experienced intense dissatisfaction with the Bush administration. Obama supporters saw the inauguration as a day of inspiration filled with a strong sense of “yes we can.”
Hungry for change, they felt elation for this new era of political leadership that would “rebuild America.” Obama, as a symbol of fortitude, youth, and diversity, is seen as a leader who can bring America through these tough times of economic distress. His victory is symbolic of an opportunity to put the country on a new and better path by increasing racial harmony, reducing global warming, getting a handle on pollution, and bringing positive change to energy, health care and education, and the economy.
Certainly, President Obama also has his critics. While many people clamor for change, it is also true that big change triggers fear, anger, irritation, and distrust, along with a plethora of additional deep-seated emotions. Some feel infuriated and are certain this new president is bad for America. Others feel extreme cynicism. On the internet, one comment stated, “I couldn’t care less about the inauguration. It’s just another lying politician who can’t wait to get his hand in the cookie jar. The people have elected a communist into the highest office in the land, and now they have to life with it.”
Many diverse opinions exist, with none being right or wrong. What is important is what you do with your opinions and attitude. No matter whether you are supportive of Obama or not, your attitude determines the quality of your life and affects the lives of those around you. Your attitude can spread hope, inspiration, and generate the positive energy in yourself and others to create a better world. Or, just as easily your attitude can spread cynicism, righteousness, and fear.
Challenge yourself to find new ways to make your attitude generate more of the type of world you want to live in. Your attitude really can make this a great world to live in.
About the Author: Want to learn more about how to live consciously, love deeply, and laugh often? Come along with Dr. Annette Colby and learn the secrets to creating the life you’ve always wanted to live! Subscribe to her blog Divine Self! today.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
It was an amazing day! I really do feel like the majority of folks are beginning to understand that we’re all in this together… we’re all connected.
It was such a great day indeed. We were actually in Washington DC. It was cold! With the millions of people attending these unique events, there was not one single arrest in the whole city: talk about joy, love optimism and good energy!
We welcome President Obama and send/wish him good energy, resolve, love, happiness, health and wisdom.