But Obama did not use a silver-tongue to add a silver lining to the “gathering clouds” under which his oath was taken or the job that lay before him as the 44^th President.  The crowd, expecting a more upbeat outlook, was jolted back to reality by Obama’s somber speech. He talked of the war, the economy, healthcare, education, and energy, claiming, “these are the indicators of [our] crisis.” He cautioned Americans that the challenges we face are real and serious, and they can’t be easily fixed in a short amount of time.  But he offered hope, saying that “They will be met.”

Over the past eight years, we have heard many Presidential speeches that gloss over the hardships, the sacrifices that must be made to solve our problems. While it may seem encouraging at the time to hear a happy report, it only leads to doubt and suspicion when the truth is anything but happy.  President Obama advised that “this is the price and the promise of citizenship”; we must accept the bad news and revisit our responsibilities to our country and to each other.

Obama addressed one of my biggest concerns during the inaugural speech: how will he  inspire a nation that has become so cynical?  It seems as though we have lost faith in politicians, the system, our parties and our votes.  We expect to hear more bad news everyday. Even Generation Y, being young and considered inexperienced in this world, has become jaded.

The most reassuring aspect from the speech is the realistic commitment to bring the country back to the programs that restore our faith in the government.  Yesterday all generations were called upon to demand more of their government.  Obama said, “The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works.” That one line reached beyond party boundaries into the very heart of our problems as a country.  We must make government work for all the people.

He spoke of our need to forget our intolerances and mend the rip that has divided our country for eight years. He reminded us that preceding generations faced communism, fascism, and the perils of war not with weapons but with convictions. President Obama reassured us that our ideals are more powerful than any force that can stand against us. Yesterday, his words empowered us with the belief that our voices can and will be heard. He lifted us above the crisis.

January 20, 2009, was a day when even the most cynical person could look at a crowd of 2 million standing strong and together, facing the hard task of rebuilding America, and be comforted by the President’s words.

No related posts.

You have commented that it would be more appropriate to discuss our success as a nation after the first 1000 days; the traditional 100 days litmus test might not provide the instant gratification we are all searching for. While it is likely that not much immediate change will come in those days, they are crucial. It will take years to remedy the problems we are facing now, but the first days represent the action that will be taken over the course of the administration and hint to the American people the resolve and dedication for change.

No one is excluded from the effects of the economic turmoil of our country. The problem is that money alone cannot undo the years of disregard for public programs and economic malfeasance. Our goals cannot revolve around short-term gains, and at this critical juncture, all generations should feel that their future is secure. Although at this time I am not a homeowner or a person recovering from a loss to my investments, I am someone whose future is indebted to the change heralded on your campaign trail. I am part of the generation that in fifteen years will own a home and hold investments. I do believe that this kind of crisis can be avoided. With haste and grit, your 100 days can echo that determination, and we can focus on issues that will pull us out of the trenches and produce long-term sustainability.

College Tuition
Tuition costs have more than doubled in the last eight years. Right now, students can expect to have up to $80,000 of debt upon graduation and we have seen no relief on the state or national level. This affects not only our unemployment rates and quality of life but our global image as well.

Stimulus Package
States are hurting. Even those with a surplus in the budget have begun to cut programs and ask for decreased spending. Providing genuine relief to states and local factions will help to maintain needed public services and programs.

Iraq
Develop a plan for withdrawal that includes an effective timeline and upholds a sturdy Iraqi government. It is important in our global interaction that we follow through and that we adhere to that timeline.

Energy and Green Jobs
Provide an energy plan that works to build a green business infrastructure. Continue to explore ways to end our dependence on foreign oil. This effectively works to reduce global warming and carbon emissions, generates much needed jobs, and enhances our national security.

Main Street Bail Out
Families need assistance to secure their homes. Provide a plan that allows homeowners relief but the opportunity to discuss the terms of their mortgage so that debts can be paid and alleviated.

No related posts.