Inauguration Day

Today, I was one of the millions, who sat in front of her television this morning, mesmerized by what was taking place.  On this historical morning.  I was awed, moved to tears and I think in some aspects even a bit transformed as President Obama was humbly inaugurated into office.  I loved every minute of this mornings proceedings.  I loved Aretha singing the National Anthem, I loved the music and poetry which was commissioned and most of all I loved the President's speech. I, like so many other Americans, am looking forward to a new day and a brighter future for all.    

The following was one of my favorite passages from Elizabeth Alexander's poem, Praise Song for the Day.

Praise song for struggle;

Praise song for the day. 

Praise song for every hand-lettered sign;

The figuring it out at kitchen tables.

Some live by "Love thy neighbor as thyself."

Others by "First do not harm," or "Take no more than you need."

What if the mightiest word is love, 

Love beyond marital, filial, national. 

Love that casts a widening pool of light.  

Love with no need to preempt grievance.

In today's sharp sparkle, 

This winter air, 

Anything can be made, 

Any sentence begun.

On the brink,

On the brim, 

On the cusp--praise song for walking forward in that light.