Thursday, January 15, 2009

Inspiration



In these tough times, it's hard to get inspired about anything.

I found inspiration today, however, in the story I read on Yahoo News about a letter that our President-Elect, Barack Obama, wrote to his young girls, Malia, age 10 and Sasha, age 7.

He began the letter by saying that he entered the race for the White House "because of what I want for you and for every child in this nation."

"When I was a young man, I thought life was all about me -- about how I'd make my way in the world, become successful, and get the things I want. But then the two of you came into my world," Obama said in the letter published in Parade magazine, a weekend newspaper color supplement.

"I realized that my own life wouldn't count for much unless I was able to ensure that you had every opportunity for happiness and fulfilment in yours. In the end, girls, that's why I ran for President: because of what I want for you and for every child in this nation."

The inclusive, creative tone of our new president gives me so much hope for our young people. He gets it. He truly gets it.














7 comments:

Anonymous said...

Thanks for sharing that article on our President Elect's letter to his children. There seems to be a fresh new attitude sweeping the country. Even in these dark days, hope and optimism abound. Maybe it's a passing phase, in and out with the Inaugural, but I'm choosing to believe it will last.
In fact, I'm harkening back to my youth and the excitement of the Kennedy years. Maybe I'll even join the Peace Corps--sign me up for the geriatric brigade!

Mary Cunningham said...

Thanks, so much, for you comment. I can remember the excitement of the Kennedy years, but got especially involved in RFK's brief candidacy.

I'm choosing to believe that Barack will be great for this country, and that many will catch the spirit and give back.

Thanks for the comment!

Janet Muirhead Hill said...

I'm with you, Mary. This new president, soon to be inaugurated, inspires me and gives me hope. He's the first president in memory that I can fully trust to mean what he says and to say what he means; to really care about the future of our nation and our children. What a job he has, but if anyone can do it well, it is Barack Obama.

Janet Muirhead Hill said...

I'm with you, Mary. This new president, soon to be inaugurated, inspires me and gives me hope. He's the first president in memory that I can fully trust to mean what he says and to say what he means; to really care about the future of our nation and our children. What a job he has, but if anyone can do it well, it is Barack Obama.

Diana Black said...

I watched Obama kid with the girls today, during the concert on the Mall, at Lincoln's feet, and couldn't help but smile. Then Malia took photos of the celebrities and I chuckled out loud. Sasha swung her skirt a bit and Michelle clapped and swayed to the music, and I joined in the song.

It's going to be an INTERESTING four years!

Diana
www.basicblackblog.blogspot.com

Anonymous said...

That letter is inspiring indeed! I think what I love even more, though, is the photos in the Parade article -- particularly the one of Barack and Sasha Obama in the bumper cars. So cute!

Mary Cunningham said...

I agree, Lisa. That picture is my favorite too. What pure joy on their faces!