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"For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus—and non-believers. We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth; and because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation, and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass; that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve; that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself; and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace."
President Obama
3 comments:
We gathered as a school in our gymnasium to watch the inauguration ceremony live as it played out. It was amazing to see our students participate like they were amongst the millions gathered in D.C. They genuinely and enthusiastically cheered throughout, bowing to pray as Rick Warren prayed and standing in respect as the oaths were taken, then singing along as the national anthem was sung
Later in class, they journaled and we reflected on sharing history in the making right before us. It was neat to hear so many of my minority students share about what this day meant to they and their families. We talked of change and what that would look like for their generation. We closed praying as ONE for the new Commander in Chief. A memorable day at FCS to be sure!
Nice quote Wes. Yeah, Jake I too share in a similar experience at school; however it was unreal seeing my students eyes and ears locked in on Rick Warren praying - being in a public school! Incredible. And a bit funny. I had to laugh at the "Seperation of Church and State" moment.
Wow, and then coming to an understanding that eventhough some of my students have differing ideals and policies, we recognized as ONE that this is a "FIRST" that we celebrate. It goes way beyond politics and tears at the heart of America which is "Anything is possible here
." Finally.
And as the kids left the room in reflection, I sat there watching and thinking of my two little guys and one on the way an what they have to look forward to. They have NO CLUE about race in their country. They will, but their frame of references, hopefully and prayerfully, will be different than ours and our parents and grandparents. And what will I share with them about it, as did my parents and grandpa.
I hAve to say, and to what I do know about coming out of an era from reading and hearing about JFK and the reconstruction of America after World War 2, the Korean War, broke, looking for hope and a LEADER, America finds itself in a similar moment. And which makes today much MORE than race, but HOPE for Change. Something new. I don't know......I was moved by our new leader.
How about when he said, "To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow; to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds. And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to suffering outside our borders; .."
Thought his speech was really good. It was quite a moment as we watched at church. I actually felt very glad there was such a easy transition between presidents that day. I thank President Bush for keeping us safe and hope our country can realize even in these times we have so much more than any other place on earth. I loved the part about helping other countries. It's what america should be, the big brother to the world in protection and provision. I think some of the hope he speaks of is an amazing idea, but a little unrealistic. There are some things that will not change until Christ returns. I hope for peace between people, tribes, nations, but it will not happen on this side of heaven. We prayed as well for our new leader. I "hope" he becomes and incredible president.
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