First of all, there is a very cool photo at CNN (click here) of the national mall during the inauguration event. It's interesting to see how the lines of sight to the Jumbotrons shape the crowds. Here's what it looks like without the crowds.
Next, I'd like to point out an opinion piece in the New York Times (click here, it's a free sign-up to view) which says a lot about the character of President Bush. The short story is that Mr. Bush's transition of power has shown a level of grace and dignity that has been unprecedented in recent history. He has been cooperative, gracious, and accommodating, in rather stark contrast to other recent transitions. He has done some work with the Congress to set the stage for Mr. Obama, and has kept his last-minute executive orders few and very open. (Contrast that with Clinton.) Transitions have been notoriously tricky for those involved: even the transition from Reagan to Bush Sr. was uncomfortable and awkward. Although he is unpopular and incompetent in the eyes of many, you cannot doubt his character and integrity. He has shown a lot of class during the last two months. Read the article for details.
Finally, and I'm saying this without any hyperventilating, it was really cool to be in the lobby of the Mechanical Engineering building with at least 100 other students, staff, and faculty during the ceremony. I noticed several heads bow during Rick Warren's prayer. We all shared a good laugh during the swearing in, and I never saw a room clear so fast as when the national poet stepped on the stage...
1 comment:
President Bush, the bane of many a person, will likely be viewed differently once the history books are written. Hopefully President Obama will be able to maintain the record of no terrorist attacks on our country, during his time in office. And yes, he definitely should have chosen another poet. ;)
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