The Big Day - A New Start?

Well this was the day that some of us have waited months or two years and for some 232 years ie since the American Revolution. Today saw a young intelligent 47 year old man become the 44th President of the United States. In doing so Obama has taken a step to meet the dream of Rev Martin Luther King Jnr that people will be judged by the content of their character and not the colour of their skin.

An estimated 1.8 million people of all ages and races packed the Mall to witness the dawn of a new age for America and the world.

The 19 minute speech was somewhat different to those that may have been heard on the campaign trail. The dreams and hopes expressed were accompanied with plans and messages that would deliver them.

The economy was a central focus of the Presidents' speech he spoke of harsh times ahead but also that the USA had the intelligence and work force to get it back on track. But this could not be done via wishful thinking but by the realisation that difficult decisions cannot be put off no matter how unpleasant.

In Foreign policy there was a realisation that the USA required a new relationship with countries and faiths in the world. All caught in his phrase "We will extend our hand if you unclench your fist".

Responsibility was the key to all his remarks. The government had the responsibility to help kick start the economy, to devise a new foreign policy, to look to the future of science and technology and make opportunity available to all. But there is responsibility on the citizen too. The responsibility to look out for neighbours and to make time for children.

The most common question is can he deliver? With so much expectation some will be disappointed. Time will tell and all we can say is good luck!