Though I didn't vote for him, I couldn't very well stay away from history. Plus I figured this would be the only time I'd witness a Presidential Inauguration and so I was one of the 1.8 million on the National Mall when Barack Obama was sworn in.
Since I live only 4 miles outside of the city, in Northern Virginia, a few friends and I walked in instead of waiting in the endless lines for the Metro. It was a very frigid day, though thankfully there was no rain or snow to deal with. I most definitely would have stayed home had that been the case.
Once we got into the city, it was clear there were tons of people everywhere. We arrived in the Mall around 9:30 and began maneuvering the crowd, attempting to find a good enough spot to see one of the many Jumbotrons-there was no way we could get anywhere near the Capital, especially since word leaked out that those with tickets couldn't even get in. We passed the Bike Valet, ya the only time I've seen more bikes would have been in Amsterdam this summer and there were still hundreds everywhere. We decided on the lawn in front of the Washington Monument, and just stood on our toes to see the TV.
All in all it was a freezing cold day, but I'm glad I went. There was a palpable excitement in the air, comparable to a rock concert (not sure if that's fitting for a President..haha) and people were really happy, minus some disrespect to our departing president. Witnessing democracy in action was a powerful thing and made me proud to be an American and grateful for this country. I just hope the things that make us great will be preserved and we won't forget what brought us here.
2 comments:
Thats great! It seems like one of those once in lifetime experiences. This one was especially historic. So glad you finally have a blog!
You're like my own Forest Gump - always at these great and historic events/places, but intentionally and without mental deficit. I'm going to enjoy reading about your life without having to talk to you...psych!
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