Four years ago on January 20, 2009, Barack Obama laid his hand on a Bible, promising to serve the United States to the best of his ability and was sworn in as the 44th president of America.In the upcoming 57th Inaugural Ceremony at the U.S Capitol Building, President Obama will once again step up to the podium Jan. 21 as he is sworn in for his second four-year term.
Only a handful of presidents have had the opportunity to give the nation another at-bat — another chance to serve this country, fulfill campaign promises and lead the people of America through another four years of tough decisions.
After inheriting a global economic recession, violence and unrest in the world and what was described by “Biography” magazine as “the lowest favorability rating for the United States ever,” it’s clear that one thing Obama needs to achieve his goals is time.
As a nation, we need to look to the next four years of Obama’s presidency with perseverance and positivity toward a better future. As writer and author Samuel Johnson said, “Great works are performed not by strength, but by perseverance,” and those words will ring true during the next four years.
Whether you’re a registered Republican or designated Democrat, we can all agree on one thing: it’s time to invest in us, in the U.S. In his first inaugural speech, Obama noted his determination in coming together to solve problems, as he said: “The challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this America: They will be met.”
The votes were tallied nearly two months ago — now is the time to focus not on the unhappiness caused because our preferred presidential candidate was not elected, but on our ability to come together for the greater good of our country. If “We the People” are going to solve the problems afflicting our nation, we need to unite and become one people.
— CR