A new day

Despite the frigid temperatures and large crowds, I decided to put aside my better judgment to take part in one of the proudest moments in our nation's history - the Inauguration of President Barack Obama.

Local restaurants and bars had enticing offers to watch the coverage indoors on their big screen televisions. Yet nothing would turn me away, not even the loss of feeling in my limbs, from being a part of the moment in Washington DC. And there were a million more just like me.

I'd like to thank my body for holding up, going many hours without a proper meal, even eating some foods I thought I'd never eat again. Like Obama said in his Inaguration speech, this was a time to put stale ideologies aside. I gave in to the corned beef sandwich - and am pleased to report things are great.

What Obama said to me that day nourished my being in a way that food never can. And as I listen to his speech again from my warmer confines, I can't help but get re-inspired. I feel the desire to serve. To put aside my inner skeptic, and share his infectious message of hope and possibility.

Favorite line of the speech: "We will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist." Love it. Idealism is back, baby!

I've posted more photos from the weekend on flickr.