We arrived in Columbia, Md. on Sunday, 1/18/09. We took the bus, which we had paid $25 a seat, to Union Station. We didn't arrive there until 8:00 am. We walked toward the Capital, getting directions for the entrance to the mall. After walking to several locations, we finally got to where the police officers said you had to go through security. I got in line with a bunch of people and before I could get to the white tent whee secrutity was suppose to be, I got a call from the lady I was with (she did not get in line with me) that an announcement had came over TV that they weren't letting any more people into the mall. I got out of line and we walked back to the capital. I was able to see the processional when they drove up and the cannons that gave the salute, but that was all. We were in a crowd of people behind the gates that they had up. But I can still say I was there!
Oh what a start of a glorious day! I was like a kid on Christmas morning anticipating what was awaiting to be revealed on the steps of our nations Capitol Building. Our morning began at 3am, my sister, nephew and I wanted to be the first ones at the metro station which opened at 4am. It was a blistering cold morning however after putting on my four layers of clothing I was all bundled up and ready to see my new President take his oath as the leader of this wonderful country! The metro station was packed and the excitement was everywhere. We arrived on the Washington Mall around 4:45am and already there was a huge gathering, so much for being one of the first there! As the volunteers began handing out the miniature flags we began to sing patriotic songs, a few of which my nephew said he had never heard before? (This Land is Your Land)etc........The sun began to rise and the people just kept on coming, now the jumbotrons were on and being tested and finally an entire rebroadcast of the Inauguration concert, which was my first time seeing so I was thrilled! Now the special guest, celebrities ,dignitaries, and past presidents began arriving and finally what we all had been hoping for, praying for and waitiing for, President Barack H. Obama and the first family! Wow, he did it! we all did it! Yes! we did and I was there!!!!!!!!
My Psychology teacher saw the Inauguration up close and personal. He told us that it was the most peaceful and friendly and loving environment that day. God, I wish I had been there, despite my parents disliking Obama. At least we got to watch it on CNN at school :)
~K.T.
During this past weekend in Washington, D.C., I witnessed not only the swearing in of the first African-American President, but I witness humanity. For the entire weekend, I witnessed individuals rise to a higher level of patience, acceptance, kindness and selflessness. My motive for going to D.C. was to allow my 16 year old daughter to witness history. However, we received so much more. We witnessed people of all races, ages, and backgrounds coming together for a common cause. We witnessed how the vision of one could impact so many. This weekend I was truly proud to be an American and proud of my fellow man.
