PREVIOUS COMMENTS: What This Inauguration Means To YOU!

TO ME IT MEANS THAT THE BLACK MAN HAS MOVD FROM BEING THE DRIVER TO BEING A BACK SEAT DRIVER, ISN'T THAT GREAT !
THAT 'S OUR MAN. ALTHOUGH HIS THOUGHT PROCESS IS ON THE RIGH TRACK HE HAS TO TOSS THE ROSE COLLORED GLASSES. HE MUST SEE THE WORLD FOR WHAT IT REALY IS. TELL HIM THAT IF HE KEEPS THOSE GLASSES THAT HE WILL OVER LOOK THE BIG PICTURE AND THAT WOULD BE HIS DOWN FALL AND THAT IS THE LAST THING THAT WE NEED OR WANT. WAY TO GO MR. PRESIDENT OBAMA. KEEP IT STRONG AND STEADY AND STAY THE COURSE.
ZOLICON.

FROM B.C. CANADA

It means little more than any other inauguration to me. I'm so tired of hearing about how special this is. He's a politician elected to serve us as president. He's not the mesiah. I voted for him, but i'm OVER all this hype about the man and this inauguration.

This may not be on the question for the evening, but I am very concerned about the drug cartel and what it is doing to the Mexican Government. Are we as Americans so stupid to think we are not next in the drug cartels sights?
When police chiefs are gunned down here in our streets, and our own police are found dead with their heads cut off, then dont you think it may be a little late to get concerned?
The drug cartel will stop at nothing, they know only one way, their way, and if you dont agree you will be eliminated. Can we sit back and allow this to come here in our country????
We need to get involved with the Mexican government and help them ridd their country of this terrorism.

The famous maker of beanie Babies has now introduced two Ty-Girlz, Sasha and Malia. They are a major hit and look just like them, adorable. You can see them on ty.com. This is so wonderful to see all of America celebrate and get behind the first family.

I think that he will help all the people,
that he can.

I think the inauguration means a little more than the rest because all you ever hear is empty promises during the inauguration.President elect Obama was the fastest president elect to get plans made for our economic problems such as:Pink slips,bailouts,gas,on and off shore drilling,etc

When I was in second grade I learn about slavery and I remember feeling so ashamed that people of my race could do such a thing to another human being. I will never forget the first time I learned of it. I cannot even give a better discription but shame and shock. I wish my father was alive for this, he would be SO happy.
Also, I think he will inspire change within all of America, which for the most part has become self serving. Success has become measured in dollars instead of character and integrity. I do not expect Obama to solve all our nation's problems, but I think he will inspire all people to change their focus, and reevaluate what success exactly is. It is not "all about me" , which has become our nations moto. I think that is what others see in him as well.

This inauguration, just means that the baton has been tossed to another big spender. He, nor his ring of controllers and advisors, doesn't have a clue, as to what is wrong with, or how to fix the economy.

His policy, concerning Iraq is a hide-the-head, in the sand kind of strategy. If he withdraws the troups, from there, like he says he will, he will have to go back, faster than he left.

Bush, should have never gone into a sovereign country and overthrew it's government, in the first place. It has opened a nesting ground, for our enemies. And when the troups pull out, there will be a civil war and eventual become a puppet state of Iran.

Our economy, has been broken by cheap goods, coming from other countries, at the expense of jobs, for our citizens and at a cost to our consumers, that is outrageous. Cheap foreign labor, has likewise, cost us not only jobs, but a strain on our entitlement budget. Yet, this guy is all for open borders and amnesty, finally creating a North American alliance, that will eventually change life, for our citizens, for sure.

Yes, this inauguration will issue in change.....but when/if we have another such an event, will we be as glad to see this one go, as the current commander in chief? Sure, what is done is done and there's no need to cry over what is done but as I've said many times, we will rue the day.

Dear Mr King,
I am a Nigerian Canadian, but I also lived in the US for some years B/4 moving to Canada, I adopted a child while in America, and I still feel that Montgomery AL is still my home; therefore, I am still very interested and moved by American politics, especially when provided by the CNN group of five analysts: Anderson Cooper (whom I love dearly) Dr. David Gergen, Soledad O'Brian, John King, and Bill Schneider.
I want to use this time of history making to congratulate my very dear hero President elect Obama,and also say thank you to Ms Oprah Winfrey for not backing down with all the threats from disgruntled viewers.
My main purpose in writing this is that throughout this election I realized that Americans have many educated illiterates, who all seem to have the opportunity to be on T.V. But then comes an icon: CNN Analyst David Gergen. I know he is a professor and a republican, but the way that he speaks, you never know what party he belongs to. Please President elect Obama make this man one of your advisors, you will not regret it. To me, he is the most intelligent, most truthful of all and he is full of wisdom. Please make him part of anything in this your administration. You need him and I believe America needs someone who can really be objective like president elect Obama (aka "president of the world" )
May The Almighty God Bless AMERICA and Canada too
Thank you Mr. King. God bless you too for the great work you do.
Gold

I FEEL THAT ALL OF US SHOULD JUST LET GO TO GOD. HE IS OUR HIGHER POWER IN ALL DENOMINATIONS. OBAMA IS THE CHOSEN ONE BY THE PEOPLE.. NO REGRETS! LETS JUST COME TOGETHER ON THE HEALING OF ALL OF OUR PROBLEMS. MY FEELING IS THAT WHAT'S HAPPENING NOW WITH THE RECESSIONS, AND ABUSE AMONGST EACH OTHER AND FAMILY UNIT BREACKING DOWM AND IMPORTANTLY THE JOB AND HEALTH CARE ISSUES WHERE YOU CAN'T RISK BEING UNHEALTHY UNLESS YOU HAVE THE SAME AMOUNT OF MONEY TO BUY A CAR.( COSTLY ONE)..... WHAT WE HAVE NOW IS A STRONG LEADER WITH A POWERFUL AGENDER WITH FOLLOWERS WITH WHOM MUST HAVE A MEMORY OF THE REAL,
(NOT HYPER ) STRUGGLES OF THE PAST AS A WHOLE COMGLOMERATE. UNITY. WE NEVER WOULD HAVE MADE IT , WITH OUT GOD" AND THE PAST DELLIGENT EFFORTS. FROM THE BACK BONES OF OUR ANCESTORS. WE ARE CLOSE TO TROWING IT ALL AWAY . UNLESS WE AS A UNIT COME TOGETHER AND NOT LOOK AT THE COLOR OF THE SKIN BUT THE CONDUCT OF THE CHARACTER OF THE SOUL. . NO COLOR JUST FAITH AND UNITY. AND STRONG BELIEF.
CHANGE IS A GOOD THING I HOPE THAT WE ALL AGREE. ON THAT MUCH!

THIA IS MY OPINION.

i AM SOMEBODY

I AM A VOTER

Don't droole on yourself!

Obama is not the messiah and Abe was shot while in office. PLEASE remember that 50% of America did not vote for this guy! Cover histroy not your bias. Thank you!

(Vested hopes while on the ropes) Larry, I don’t know all the rules. And on this count It wasn’t me who decided to side with Devil. What do you want me to tell you? Fear God..! How about that? If Obama and all those who so heartily supported him ever go to hell, I would guess that they would have gotten there by their own free will. Because despite what many people might say or think, Life is a fair game.. I’m sure God wouldn’t have it any other way. Embrace life. It’s a privilege to feel pain and discourage, just as much as it is a chance to do the right thing. Some people have no problems or conscious hiccups supporting Obama. But then some others do, and it is on those shoulders where I will guess prayers will stack up to keep innocence alive.

i never had any interest in flying anyway as it is. but this just goes to prove that we definately have some very well qualified as well as caring pilots. this was truly an act of god. i am so happy that everyone made it out alive and big kudos to the pilot and his helper. it should make everyone feel a little better about air travel.

WITH THE POOR ECONIME IN THE USA.JUST WONDERING HOW MANY MILLIONS OF DOLLARS IS SPENT ON THE INOG.OR SHOULD I SAY BILLIONS.COULD THIS NOT BE DONE A LITTLE MORE LOW KEYED?

hopefully this means that the racial barrier has come down. it is time to live the dream that MLK has talked about and died for. i am so excited for the obamas. and i am looking very forward to his presidency. i'm sure he;ll do a good job – even if he does make mistakes. as far as president Bush goes, people should look at the good things he did, even if it was only a few.

it has been an honor to watch your politcal coverage over the years. I never would have imagined my son in law would end up being your guest.
I am so proud of all that Matt has done.
this inauguration means that hope is being restored to America. President elect Obama has shown that he truly walks his talk.
Matt and Sandy truly represent everyday Americans who believe in the strength of the citizens of this Great Country.
Thank You Larry King, Thank you Barack Obama, Thank you God.
Marilyn

The inauguration means to me,...not only change but, a new generation of acceptance and open minds. I know that I will being telling my children and grandchildren about this day. When they come and ask me "do you remember when..." I will proudly respond ,"YES, I do remember that inauguration of the 1st black president, even though I was not their in person, I was still watching it on tv and I will for sure remember that moment". Even though I am a young white women, I can still understand the trirumph, that this new presidency means to the African American community. I believe that these some of my favorite quotes.... clearly demonstrate the words that meny of us can not put together.

"The credit belongs to those who are actually in the arena, who strive valiantly; who know the great enthusiasm, the great devotions, and spend themselves in a worthy cause; who at the best, know the triumph of high achievement; and who, at the worst, if they fail, fail while daring greatly, so that their place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat".
Theodore Roosevelt

"The harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly; it is dearness only that gives everything its value. I love the man that can smile in trouble, that can gather strength from distress and grow”
Thomas Paine quote (English born American Writer and political pamphleteer, whose 'Common Sense' and 'Crisis' papers were important influences on the American Revolution. 1737-1809)

"We all live with the objective of being happy; our lives are all different and yet the same". Anne Frank

"We have become not a melting pot but a beautiful mosaic.
Different people, different beliefs, different yearnings,
different hopes, different dreams."
Jimmy Carter

"If we cannot end now our differences,
at least we can help make the world safe for diversity."
John F. Kennedy

"At bottom every man knows well enough that he is a unique being,
only once on this earth;
and by no extraordinary chance will such a marvelously picturesque piece of diversity in unity as he is,
ever be put together a second time."
Friedrich Nietzsche

"If we are to achieve a richer culture, rich in contrasting values, we must recognize the whole gamut of human potentialities, and so weave a less arbitrary social fabric, one in which each diverse human gift will find a fitting place."
Margaret Mead

"America is not like a blanket – one piece of unbroken cloth. America is more like a quilt – many patches, many pieces, many colors, many sizes, all woven together by a common thread."
Rev. Jesse Jackson

"As long as the differences and diversities of mankind exist, democracy must allow for compromise, for accommodation, and for the recognition of differences."
Eugene McCarthy

"You cannot bring about prosperity by discouraging thrift. You cannot help small men by tearing down big men. You cannot strengthen the weak by weakening the strong. You cannot lift the wage-earner by pulling down the wage-payer. You cannot help the poor man by destroying the rich. You cannot keep out of trouble by spending more than your income. You cannot further the brotherhood of man by inciting class hatred. You cannot establish security on borrowed money. You cannot build character and courage by taking away men's initiative and independence. You cannot help men permanently by doing for them what they could and should do for themselves."
William Boetcker

"We have the ability to achieve, if we master the necessary goodwill, a common global society blessed with a shared culture of peace that is nourished by the ethnic, national and local diversities that enrich our lives."
Mahnaz Afkhami

"Infinite diversity in infinite combinations... symbolizing the elements that create truth and beauty."
Commander Spock, Star Trek

"The wave of the future is not the conquest of the world by a single dogmatic creed but the liberation of the diverse energies of free nations and free men."
John F. Kennedy

"The most certain test by which we judge whether a country is really free is the amount of security enjoyed by minorities."
Lord Acton

"The real death of America will come when everyone is alike."
James T. Ellison

"A human being is a part of the whole that we call the universe, a part limited in time and space. He experiences himself, his thoughts and feelings, as something separated from the rest - a kind of optical illusion of his consciousness. This illusion is a prison for us, restricting us to our personal desires and to affection for only the few people nearest us. Our task must be to free ourselves from this prison by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living beings and all of nature."
Albert Einstein

It means a very large portion of our population has changed the way the see themselves. And perhaps others will change how they see that part of the population.

we are thrilled Larry..God Bless Obama/Biden ! being born in the 1930's , it's difficult for me to accept the fact that there will be so many Inagural balls & that it costs so much money to run for Pres. so many poor, homeless in this country so many unemployed..people scraping to get by..our houses worth less money lost in our retirement funds,,so am praying & have hope that the war will end soon..do not know what church Obama & family will choose to attend..hope they go to church ev. Sun..Maybe they will visit a diff. church ev. Sun...Enjoy Wash., DC, Larry for the next few days. Looking forward to Oprah's shows from the Kennedy Cntr....

proud

Larry,
Please make sure that CNN reporters, when they stand in front of the camera outside, wear warm hats. CNN is setting very bad example for young children when its reporters do not wear proper weather gear. When it's cold wear a hat !!! Don't pretend it's warm. It's not!
Have them wear their hats!
Walter

Thank you for the perspective of Post Traumatic Stress........

Oh my my posts are really ridiculous...do not ever get an "Asus" laptop- the keypad is terrible. I miss my Dell.

Candy, thank you for all the work... it's hard to find all the blogs to read the most current. Candy... I hope you get some rest.

I will not be able to attend the inauguration, but I can't help but believe that "A Change Gone Come" as Sam Cooke sang.

Larry , you certainly get responses... keep it .

I want to witness this country literally take a new direction, it's about all of us coming together and making this country take it's rightful place in the world.

Obama demonstrates the kind of gentleman that
America needs. People always say, "it's the little things..." I noticed how he treats his wife in public, his children, etc. I saw him reach his hand to help Biden's wife on the train. Obama seems to be a Man in every sense of the word, and I think that these small gestures will make him a great President. Compassion, Consideration, Confidence, Courage, a great husband, dad, etc... will be the qualities that will keep him focused and humble but strong. Obama gives us HOPE in America again. It's a bonus that he is an African American like myself. I am proud and honored to be alive to see this historic day.

Larry – if we are not a prejudice country why do we keep referring to Obama as the first black or African American President? Why do we always use color? He is a MAN who is going to be our next leader and President regardless of his color or nationality. I am excited to have a new President and I voted for him but I don't think we should put color into the mix.

Also, I thought you should have interviewed Sully first not Matt Lauer who watches Matt Lauer???? We LOVE Larry King!

Musicians ..... thank you Q. and you also pete. your parents met Biden.

Larry,
I'm extremely dissapointed in your very insensitive introduction of your guest and suicide.

Not really very professional or in my opinion necessary.

Too bad you have to go for the sensational.....

Signed.
A father who lost his son to suicide.

This inauguration means that my daughters will see another black man in a powerful place in the United States of America! I am very proud!

I come from a small town in the north-east of England.
I now have retired to live in BC Canada – no connection at all to the US. BUT.... I have been glued to CNN during the whole election process.

Obama has some magic that is is so inspirational – and I know I will cry when I see Obama's inauguration on Tuesday.

When will CNN unclasp its hands from under its chin, lose its moony-eyed glaze and dare to say a discouraging word about Obama?

Living in the Bay Area of California with out own local problem. This time give us hope that things can change where there is justice for all. His campaign and life is an inspiration to us all.

thanx pete wendy ..... your perspective increases the interest. remaining involved means... just being alive and responsive

We get the government we deserve. We can't blame Bush for everything; he wasn't the only one asleep at the wheel. This is a democracy–run by We, the People. Obama is asking the right thing of us: participate. Let's do that.

Larry,

It is s great feeling to have someone else step into office.... but he wants to bring gays into the military and today's military is not ready for this.

I came to the USA over 26 years ago and since then I became an American, I served in the US Army, became a citizen and I supported Obama since he won Ohio. The last election results were vindication of my belief in the USA and its exceptional role in the history of humankind. I will second Michelle's sentiment and say that for the first time in the last 26 years my fellow Americans made me proud to be an American. It is a brave step to overcome the bigotry of the past and vote for a politician who actually is an intelligent person and not a hypocrite. I served under Reagan (government is a problem not a solution), under Bush elder (wise enough to stop before taking Bagdad), under Clinton (unable to controll his sexual urges), and George W. Bush an epitomy of nepotism and co-conspirator hiding Cheney as de facto president, and I was about to doubt as to my choice to become an American citizen. Thanks to the rest of America I have regain my trust in the wisdom of the People.
Hurrah!!!

In Bismarck, ND, all packed for flight to WDC in the morning for inauguration. Just finished Chinese take-out and my fortune cookie revealed: "You will soon witness a miracle."

Who would have ever thought this historic moment would take place in 2009. This is the new face for american a chance for all to believe in self also show that the sky is the limit you can achieve anything in life if you have the will power. As a Solider just redeploying from Iraq I think obama is the man to get the job done and take our America in the right direction.

I watched Barack Obama on the train in Claymont, DE today. This meant so much to me because I could be there for my mom and dad who raised me in Claymont and could not be there because of the cold and health concerns today. While they watched on TV from their home in Claymont, DE, I watched at Claymont Station. Barack Obama waved and smiled at the crowd and I could not be more proud of the little town Claymont, DE that I grew up in nor pleased that we hopefully have some new changes ahead in this country. My mom and dad and I support Barack Obama and have suported Joe Biden for years.

I do understand that his Barack dad is from Africa & his Mom is from america however I think it's a disrespect to the " white side" of his family to only call him a " First Black President" why not the bi-racial president

Its about time that race seemingly does not matter. Thank God!!!

I think it is great that our country has broken the race barrier and shown that this country is indeed united, but I am completely sick of all the hype. People are going completely overboard. Beanie babies of the first children? Are we serious? This is completely outrageous. I guess the next product will be Obama Ken and Michelle Barbie by Mattel.

As a native of Wilmington Delawre i was proud today to watch on cnn Obama and our own Joe Biden at the Wilmington Train Station. At present I am visiting my son in Califorina and could not be there in person. However I thought it was a class act on the part of Joe to have his conductor interdouce him to the crowd. Also i was thrilled at the croweds response when Obama appeared.

good nite, I QUIT

WE ARE ALL ON THIS TRAIN!!! THE CONDUCTOR[OBAMA] IS IN OUR

HANDS. WHAT A PRIZE POSSESSION! MAY THE WHOLE WORLD

JUMP ON THIS INAGURAL TRAIN. TUES. WILL BE A GREAT DAY IN

HISTORY!! GAIL NOVA SCOTIA CANADA

The inauguration of Barack Obama has engaged Canadians like no other presidential event in recent memory. His election means hope to all of us in Canada who value ethics, integrity and inclusiveness in our political leaders. As a your next door neighbour, we care deeply about what happens in the White House. When America sneezes, Canada catches a cold. When America gets it right, as you have with Barack Obama, Canada rejoices with you.

President Elect Obama taking office means this to me...
Growing up in Beaumont, TX my father always celebrated Juneteenth as our (African Americans) day of freedom. This is the day that the slaves were freed in TX. I never really felt the same as others felt for the 4th of July because we were still slaves of our founding fathers.
This will be the 1st 4th of July that I will feel like I truly have a place at Americas table of freedom. America has gone full circle & I wish my father was here to witness this blessed occassion.

I hope we the American people do not put all our faith in one man. This is history in the making and I am proud to be a part of it but Capitalism is falling apart before our eyes and its going to require more than money to put Americans who have lost jobs vack to work. Seems like big business is cashing in before Bush leaves.

This inauguration is important to me because of the man we have elected. He is special ... we can all feel it ..... and it has nothing to do with the color of his skin....... or the past eight years. Saying it's about race or relief to be done with the Bush years diminishes this unique and monumental event in all of our lives. We chose him for much greater reasons! The world awaits the leadership of Barack Obama. He inspires a whole new generation of young and older people. We love you back Barack!

Larry

I have never been more excited about the inauguration of Barak Obama. I have a feeling he is going to heal our country and be a great President.
I am going to pray for him and his family everyday for the duration of his administration. I am so happy.

G Stewart

Couldn't come soon enough.....good night Bush!

Hello Barack!!!

Where's the Big White Horse? Where's the suit of armour? The sword in the upheld right hand? Barrack Hussein Obama will do no more than any other loyal American qualified presidential candidate will do. Thank God, the president has limited powers. BHO could try to be America's first dictator. In our country, THE PEOPLE have the power. My question remains, what powerful source is really behind BHO's quest for the presidency (and power)?

This means a new dawn to me! This also shows how much America really is the UNITED STATES! most of all, it means we in this world now believe we are Equal and one in the eyes of God the creator in whom we Trust!

Hi guys,
I am soo excited about our new President! No one seems to acknowledge the other half of Barack. Everyone is saying "the 1st African American" pres. when really they should say he's the bi-racial president. Also, it is sad that no one seems to mention the way the "good ole boys" have raped this nation within the last year. These big companies and "the powers that be" have sucked this country dry asking for bail outs, firing hundreds of thousands of American workers, causing American families lose their homes and livlihood behind it. They have torn this country down behind greed and now Mr. Barack has to start his new job when our country is weak, broken, and struggling. Larry, has this ever happened to any of the other presidents?

I was one of the 40,000 friends lining the tracks outside of Baltimore today. My daughter and I stood in 20 degree weather for hours waiting for the train to come around the bend. Hearing that whistle is an experience I will never forget. There is such a feeling of hope in the air. Unbelievable!! We'll be on the train heading to Washington Tuesday too!

I am a 76 white male. a retired pastor.I feel like we are living the book of exodus all over. it"s awesome lee

The days since the election, culminating in the inauguration have re-kindled this
Canadian's life long affection for the USA and it's people.
The despair of the past 8 years will fade in the hopes brought to you and the world
by Barak Obama. I'll be glued to the coverage over the next few
days, and I am thrilled that your new President will renew a tradition cast
aside by Bush – and will make Canada his first foreign destination.
He will be welcomed with great affection, anticipation and respect.
Hail to the new Chief.

LARRY, I AM 66 YEARS OLD AND NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD LIVE TO SEE A BLACK AMERICAN PRESIDENT. I HAVE BEEN GLUED TO CNN SINCE THE CAMPAIGN. IT IS A WONDERFUL FEELING TO BE RETIRED SO THAT I CAN SPEND THE ENTIRE DAY WATCHING THE INAUGURAL PROCEEDINGS. I AM SO GLAD I GOT TO SEE AND SHAKE OUR PRESIDENT-ELECTS HAND IN DOWNINGTOWN, PA. APRIL 19, 2008. GOD BLESS THE OBAMA FAMILY, AND GOD BLESS AMERICA.

This inaguaration means everything to me! I'm so glad to be on this earth to witness what I dreamed about for so many years.
I was in Jackson, Mississippi when the bill was signed in the 60's. I'm white, I'm now 72 years old and I have been waiting for a very long time for a man such as Obama to have a chance to do what he will do well! This has little to do with his being multi-racial but more about what kind of man he is. Congratulations, President Obama! You have my very best wishes and I know you will accomplish what you want to do for our country!

I am from Indonesia and I am now in DC for the inauguration celebration. When I found America chose Obama as the President of the USA, I realized that this is really a great country with the great people. God Bless America!

Larry,
It is about renewed "Hope" not only for the USA but for the world. For all the oppressed peoples such blacks in France, the oppressed peoples of all former French colonies such as Anglophones in Cameroon etc. that people should be judged by their intellect and ability to serve not by skin color, language, culture. President elect Obama is a new kind of leader who puts the interest of the people first. Indeed service to humanity is the best work of life as we Jaycees believe.

I am astounded by this Inauguration, I am glad that I am able to witness such a profound event. We are truly living up to the intentions of our nation's founding fathers. Americans can really believe, especially minorities, they can live the American Dream. This Inauguration means that change has truly arrived, not only for America, but for the entire world.

Words cannot express my heartfelt praise for this phenomenal man to be the 44th President . I live in Canada and have been following everything that has been taking place and was proudly supporting Barack. He is a wonderful person and I am only sorry that we in Canada do not have a leader like this remarkable man. Most of all for us who are African from all over the world we have been waiting for this man to come on the scene. He is our Moses and we proudly lift our voices in thanks to our Creator for sparing our lives to see this day. This is history and it sends a message to our children that their color cannot keep them back anymore. This is the change that we have been praying for. We love and bless Obama and his lovely family

I am so happy. I am able to witness this historic election unfold. I now can tell this story many years later and keep it in my heart for many years to come.{I am nine years old}.

How apropos that you have Pete Wentz and QuincyJones on tonight for this question. My son is a few years younger than Pete, FOB is his (and MOM's!) FAVORITE band, and I (mom) grew up knowing the famous Mr. Jones and his music! My 18 year old son eagerly voted for the first time this year for President Elect Obama, was proud to do so. This election is about my son and all of the children of the planet..not just the United States of America. The children of the United States will grow up to know that they CAN be anything they want to be and this inalienable right will now be a "given" for them. President Obama and Vice President Biden will prove once again that we are the UNITED States of America. We are a proud family, we are proud of the American people, we are excited, beyond belief and hopeful, beyond words of the changes that are going to come. WE CAN, WE DID, WE WILL.

Hey Larry King...we love ya! G-d Bless you, G-d Bless Our New Administration.

Judi Fisher, 316 Pond Drive, Glen Rock, Pa. 17327 717=235-6359

inspiration,motivation a new look at life

This historic Inauguration means to me that the time I spent as a young teenager was not in vain as I participated in the mule train back in the early 70's. This Inauguration means that my trip to the south, the sit-ins, and lock-ins help to make a difference in our world as it is today. Time was well spent seeing Andrew Young, Ralph Abernathy, and Coretta Scott King speak and having dinner with Jesse Jackson in Chicago. But bottom line - It means that I can aspire to be whatever I want.

It means that now we have a president who understands both sides of the fence, black and white, and who is willing to try to bring about an understanding to the world, no matter what race you are. I just pray for him and his family and that they always put Jesus first, for then I know we are in good hands.

We love Barrack Obama and his family they seem like their down to earth like all Americans. We believe he is going to a great job. It's not going to happen overnight. But we believe he is a great person. God Bless America. We all welcome the change for the good.

Most immediately, Obama's inauguration means that we are putting an impoverished and discredited administration behind us even we will feel the effects of its decisions for years to come.

On a larger stage, Obama's inauguration means another step in the journey toward fulfilling Dr. King's "dream." Sixty-two years after Jackie Robinson broke the color line in major league baseball, Obama has become the highest elected official in this country. We still have many more steps to take before race, religion and ethnicity are no longer barriers to opportunities that I have taken for granted.

Larry:

This is for you and those who know, appreciate this moment.

Please find my piece enclosed. Hope that you like it.

Thank you for all that you bring to us.

==================================================================

Men of November (1963 – 2008 )

Today, forty-five years ago, we heaved
this weight to our shoulders,
not seeing, knowing its complete meaning,
yet beckoning to ask why not?

You are now asked to carry this light's great intent:
to find, explore the fiber and nerve of essential need.
Define ways, delicate means.
Yes, leverage our dexterous technology,
whose logic claims bold, deft plans.

You are the leader, who my very own son,
on a cold winter night, on his campus,
not two years before -
yes, you had sent his eyes aglow, with goose bumps
dancing on his tender pale skin;
he'd gulp hope like he'd feast
on his mom's mashed potatoes ...

Now, we will bring you more, my captain –
you have engaged the imagination
of the whole world watching, one in whom
places informed hope, forged in the school
of knocked about and down and not quite up again.
But surely not out. Not us. Not now.

And, now together, our first step.

COPYRIGHT 12/23/2008
===============================================================

William Norris
337 Pearson Circle
Naperville, IL. 60563

708-446-4333
NORRIS337@SBCglobal.net

Larry, it means the realization of dreams and the beginning of so many more...
It is hope and vindication all rolled up in one charismatic package. But it's not just Obama, its the mirror he's held up to us, inviting us to be more than what we were, to live up to our own potential.

Barack Obama is making history. He is eloquent intelligent and has what it takes to run one of the most powerful countries in the world. im excited and proud to be a part of this history.
Democracy is the way forward and the Obamas will take the world there.

As a neighbour to the North, the economy of our two great countries are intricately connected. This inauguration means to me, that the State of the Union has finally become the Union of the States! Be Proud! Barb, Penticton BC Canada

What does this inauguration mean to you?

Improbable: what a beautiful word.
A word that carries along a friend and a dream: the dream of freedom.
A word that entrusts us with the unlikely odds to share, on this inauguration day, the mark of a new beginning. A chance to let us remember history. To remake the world.

It tells us that the ways of our democracy are reopened.
It breathes new air.
It distances us from all the rubble and shows us that no challenge is too great for a country that stands as one.
It encourages Americans to work together and trust each other, giving the People of the world an opportunity to look at us, as the United States of America, once again. Where men and women can come together to share a single destiny.

It means we cannot allow or afford to be divided.
It means the struggle of our gracious people will be recognized.
And it translates hope.
It keeps our flame of hope high and strong.

It gives us the incentive and motivation to believe this is the day when we give our children back their future.
This is the day we can reach all people, of all ages, race, or ethnicity, from the forgotten corners of America, to imprint on all of us new aspirations, and to share the sacrifice on a commitment to true progress, of a world that is free and fair for all.

This inauguration means that the improbable can happen.
It shortens the path to a world where nuclear weapons will finally have a chance to be abandoned.

It belongs to all of us. It grows strength in our hearts and clears our vision to see Tomorrow.

It gives us a chance to reclaim the American dream. To reaffirm that single truth that out of many we are ultimately one.
It brings haven to the ones in despair.
It veils tranquility to the ones in disbelief.
From every American, every Asian, Hispanic, African or Caucasian. Let us now speak as one, work as one, believe as one.
From all the men and women that are America, let us now perpetually lift up our hearts for new beginnings.
Let us fruitfully remake our country and remember its past, built and sculpted by callused hands of the people, and for the people.

This is the day where we can start claiming our own creed, that we are created equal. That we must not shrink from facing the problems of this country.
That we must always resort to progress, liberty, and unity.

Today tells us we are ready to stand high and recognize the unbalance of our nation. It tells us we can no longer consent to mistakes of the past, but rather to have confidence and leadership to fix them.

It tells us that we can convert our efforts beyond measure into greatness.
It tells us we are blessed.

Above all, today tells us this is the time and the day to give new meaning to the words: a Perfect Union.

What excites me most about Obama's election?
FINALLY, after 8 years, there is a man with a brain and
common sense in the office.
Thank you, America!

We all have such high expectations of Barack Obama and what he will do for our country once he takes office on January 20. But do we have equally high expectations for ourselves? All that change that we insistently and passionately demanded at the ballot box—are we really, truly prepared to be that change for ourselves, our communities, and our country?

To me, Barack Obama's inauguration is an invitation and a challenge to re-direct our expectations inward, asking ourselves what we can do differently; how we can be differently (kinder, more peaceful, more honest, more accountable, more industrious, etc…); how we ourselves can move the country forward each day through our own private commitment to be the change we want (and expect) to see.

So if I voted for Barack because I want to see an end to conflict in Iraq, I need to ask myself how I am actively working to reduce conflict in my own life. If I want openness and accountability restored to government, I can start by looking at areas in my life in which I could be even more open and accountable. If I expect Barack to lead us towards a more sustainable future, I need to honestly assess how I can reduce my impact on the environment. If I want a just economy that works for all, I need to look at my own relationship with money and with the institutions that manage it (is my money advancing my values in the world?)

This is something that I can do today, tomorrow, and the day after that—without any idea of what the future may bring or what my larger role in it might be. To me, this is the opportunity for truly transformational change that Barack Obama's inauguration represents.

The best way that I can explain what this great event means to me, is to share this poem that I wrote in honor of the occasion.

Vernon Howell
© 2009

Color Me
In Commemoration of the Inauguration of Barack Obama

Here’s a map of my country.
Color outside the lines.
Color across this state and that county.
Put a rainbow over that river and
I’ll fly over it because
I have a dream today.

Use those earth tones here
In Lincoln’s land.
Color over to Hawkeye country
For the farmers and all the heartland folks.

Pick up the red and the blue
As you move west.
Pause for the purple of the mountain’s majesty.

Over the deep blue side up, blue side down,
Say aloha and get out your multi-color pack
For this oasis of diversity.

Back we go east
Across the blue, green, gold, alabaster nation.
Color those fruited plains as we pass over
The Sioux, the Cherokee, the Jew, the Christian
And all the immigrants from everywhere.

Here’s the place for your bright yellow
And your dark brown of the Kansas sunflowers.
Ad astra per aspera
And on we go.

Let’s cross over Monticello
Using whatever colors you want,
But color it with passion and
Faith for the future.
Color it for the slaves who helped build it
And the positive vision of its owner.

Keep going now.
Over the beautiful dogwoods
All the way to Washington, D.C.
Now, it’s time to color me.

Color me Catholic, Asian, Atheist,
Irish, Muslim, Gay, Straight,
Pawnee, Eskimo, rich, poor,
Middle class, French, German,
Hispanic, African or Apache.
Color me black, white, red or
Any of the rest.
But please, please color me proud.
Color me a patriot.
Color me an American.

The inauguration is a time for a new beginning, a new start, a time for self-examination. I have been so inspired by Barack Obama. I feel so proud and now want to be of service more than ever.

The opportunity to witness this historic inauguration would simply mean the WORLD to me! I am a 38 year old African American male. I was born and raised on the South Side of Chicago in a single parent home. At the age of 13, I experienced and witnessed history, when the honorable Harold Washington became the first African American Mayor of Chicago. During that time, I was only able to contribute to the campaign by wearing buttons and proudly delivering the historic headline for the Chicago Tribune on my paper route. Mayor Washington’s victory inspired me to believe that I too, could become a leader. As a result of that inspiration, I was voted the first African American student body President at Leo Catholic H.S. which was only 40% students of color in 1987. I learned during that time that Together Everyone Achieves More regardless of race, socioeconomic background or shortcomings. Whether in sports, politics, or interpersonal relationships, it always takes teamwork to achieve a common goal. After temporary setbacks and being counted out by many, I went back to graduate from Morehouse College at the age of 36 thanks to an amazing team of supporters, I finally reached that goal.
During the Obama campaign, I volunteered with the transportation T-E-A-M at the Southwest Atlanta campaign office under the leadership of Field Organizer, Dan Copeland. Working on this historic campaign was the most galvanizing experience for me. I found hope during a time I thought it was lost and I renewed my belief in the power of change. I was truly honored to provide transportation service to Atlanta University Center students, many of whom were voting for the first time and to the elderly, many who felt a renewed sense of pride when their ballots were cast. I believe that we all have a charge to serve. Most recently, I have served my community as an EMT (emergency medical technician), an entrepreneur owning a small moving service where the motto was “service that moves you” and membership in a service organization. I have also served as an advocate for children with severe behavior/emotional disorders who desperately need change and hope for a better tomorrow.

This inauguration would mean the manifestation of the Wisdom of those families that sacrificed and struggled for greater opportunities for the next generation. The inauguration would provide an Opportunity to receive inspiration to encourage others to continue to dream… It would provide the proof of the Resilience and perseverance that my mother and mentors have instilled in me. It will inspire our youth to become Leaders in our communities. Most importantly, this inauguration will show how Deeds and service to others help everyone to achieve their dreams and goals. Again, it will mean the WORLD to me!

Always Hopeful,

Kevyn L. Giggers

A “Team” Player

Being a young African American, this historical event provides such a confidence for me that in today's society I have the ability to do whatever I want with hard work and determination. Obama has given this country such a lift and he has provided a sense of accountability to all of us and it is up to us to make change happen.

I am thrilled and excited for the first time since I was a teenager and John Kennedy became President!
I have great hope for a resurgence of world respect,also.
sincerely, Nora Johnson,R.N.

This inauguration means that I will no longer feel embarassed about being an american when i travel overseas.

Happy weekend Larry and I hope you enjoy this moment like all of us are. I volunteered for the Hillary Clinton campaign and then to Barack Obama, because either side it was going to make a big history to this nation. I had money to take the train from New York to go to the inauguration but I couldn't get a ticket, because the ticket went out and sold fast. In my opinion, I think they should given priority tickets to those people who went and took his or her time to volunteered for a candidate. But that didn't happened and I feel it was not fair.

Larry

I think a theme that someone sent in to PBS for the inaugural speech says it best; "One Divided by Fear - now United in Hope"

Grew up in the 50's in west texas (Caucasian)and remember asking mother why African Americans road in the back of the bus. She said, then and there, it is not like this every where; and it will not always be this way here. Tearful experience.
Sometimes progress and what is right is a slow process; but oh my
word...Obama's election, his speech today in Baltimore, and most certainly the inauguartion will all the another tearful experience.
One of hope, promise, and joy.

I am more excited for the young children who will never know what is like to not have a black president. It's like M.L.K, J.F.K, R.F.K and President Lincoln all got together in spirit to perfect American unity.

PERSONALLY LARRY, I FEEL ANY GOAL IS ATTAINABLE.

Hi, this is Patrick Anderson from Metuchen, New Jersey and I believe this Inauguration means both black and white people can see the goodness in each other and realize that President elect Obama is from both worlds(both black and white) and he will serve us all equally.

This is a remarkable moment for America. It is not just a victory for African Americans but Whites as well. It shows how much we all came as people. This shows that America has finally grown up.

I'm only 17 and I'm not able to vote. But this campaign has spread a real sense of involvement across the nation. I feel that I can really have an effect on this country with Barack Obama at the helm. That's what this inauguration means to me. No longer do I feel so distanced from politics and the state of our country, No longer do my parents get to set the rules on the political views of the house. On Tuesday, I look forward to watching the inauguration in my school with the masses of students and teachers witnessing one of the most inspiring moments in the history of this country and opening a door into a new chapter of my life.

The inauguration means positive change to me. It's more than just an inauguration. It is history. I'm proud that change has finally come to the United States.

This means a return of government "of the people, by the people and for the people". After 8 years of secrecy and being shut out of the process, we are being invited back in. We are ready to go!!

What the inauguration means to me is change and a hope for the future, not just for me but for my grandchildren. Finally someone who looks like me and can offer a different perspective on world affairs and events.I'm optimistic for the first time in a long time.

We have a new President for the next 4 years – period.

It means that I will not be overlooked as an educated single mother of two. I will be able to have fairness and ability to make a difference and not be different. I will be a functionable woman in society and not on the low end struggling to survive. I means that my son's will be able to have a fair chance at being educated, successful, and intelligent black men and not become a statistic.

To me this inauguration means not just the audacity but the infectiousness of hope. As I listened to John Legend and James Taylor on your show and many others during today's events, it proves out what so many of us believed during the campaign - that this really is about investing ourselves once again in our democracy. There's no time to lose.

What does this innauguration mean to me?

I have been captivated by Barack Obama since he first announced his candidacy. He has impressed me to be one of the most sincere and compassionate of any candidate in the last fifty years. Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King said "I have a dream..." This is the dream come true.

I am 47 and white. The inaguration means that there is hope that my 5 year old daughter Kelsey may perhaps have the same great opportunities and life that I had in my youth. I just wish that both her grandfathers were alive to see this magical moment in history.

Oh my God! This is just an exciting weekend. I have been watching all day tears streaming down my face and just pride and joy in my heart. This inauguration means a new page for Americans. A new hope and a longing for change that is finally here. We have elected an intelligent and wise man, and his speeches inspire me.

Obama as President means we finally have someone who
understands and cares about the "average" citizen. The
compassion that President Elect Obama has comes across in
his words, his mannerisms...Obama as President means we
can again look up to someone who is above average, who is obviously
a superior person who can confidently lead us in these troubled
times. He is someone we can trust.

Thanks for an opportunity to comment; For me,a man of 68 years,this inauguration means the fulfillment of the dreams and aspirations of my father,mother,grandparents and those of us who never,ever in our lifetimes thought that moments would ever become reality!

Our new President means hope, and togetherness; Americans are desperate for change. In all my 57 years, Americans have never been this low, scared, and ignored.

Barack Obama's presidency means the beginning of a new relationship between the american people and it's leader. It means the rejuvenated interest in the political scene for the young and old. But most importantly, the presidency of Barack Obama means that my hopes for a political career can be met with optimism, not fear of corruption.

Larry,
We are so pround of Obama. The first time we voted was for President Kennedy in 1960, we were so looking forward to what he could do for our country. Now we feel the same and are so looking forward to Obama and Michelle and their girls. The feeling is the same we had when we were young married people with 2 small children. I have pictures of myself and girlfriend and 3 small children going to LAX to see John Kennedy land to speak to us. His plane was late so they just let down the barriers. We went running, my girlfriend was able to shake his hand, I touched his back. I have the same kind of HOPE I had those many years ago. Go Obama. Hope for our children and grandchildren.......Thanks

hello larry:

the inauguration of barack obama as our President means everything about our great country. i was at chipotle in dupont circle the other day and had trouble finding a seat. i am an african american male. a white male offered me a seat at the table he was sharing with a friend, another white male. we began to talk about what's going on in OUR country and we agreed that we loved the time in which we were living...that our parents and grandparents may be baffled but we are elated and hopeful.

Larry,
This is one of the most hopeful event that I am witnessing in my life. I see a man coming from no where yet so glaring with so much hope that moves the whole world. The inauguration is a sign of the maturity of Americans

I am glad to be alive and apart of this celebration. I remember how excited everyone was about Kennedy when I was a child in New England, but this seems so much bigger and it couldn't have come at a better time. We have so many problems in this country, but I believe President Elect Obama has already started trying his best and has gathered the best people he can find to work on the problems. I think he is going to give us all a chance to help him turn our country around and make it something to be proud of again. He is also is going to bring us together as a people.

I am so excited to see the United States of America having a awesome
man becoming our 44th president of the United States. It has been a long time coming, as we need this wonderful change.....

I am so proud to be American....

I am a black female age 65, and I thought "not in my lifetime." I haven't stop crying, with joy ofcourse.

Dear Larry (by the way love your show and rarely miss it), I'm not even American and I can tell that me, my wife, and many friends around the world we feel Barak Obama to be our President too!!!!

I have never feel for any politician the way I feel for him, and we feel a perception of hope and modern renaissance for the world!!!

We send the best wishes to him and his family!!!

This time last year I was getting ready to stand in a long line in sub zero temperatures to vote for Obama in the first caucus that I have ever participated in. After standing in line for 3 hours and getting frost bitten, I was sick for about 2 months after that. To see this inaugeration makes me smile inside and lets me know that my involvement in this process was not in vain.

The inauguration of Barrack Obama as our 44th President means the world to me. I grew up in the Baby Boomers Era and saw discrimination and experienced it for myself. I followed the Dr. Martin Luther King dream and so wanted him to take us to the mountain top. Along came Barrack Obama and carried the dream further and took us to the mountain top. Thank you Mr. Barrack Obama for following that dream and for the realization that America needed change. I will always be ever so grateful to you for your movement and energy to succeed.

I spent several hours on the Washington mall today. The mayor is absolutely right–you can feel the anticipation in the air. Everywhere I went, it seemed like people were happy. It was extraordinary. People are happy for new day coming–even in the middle of the many problems our country faces.

My husband and I are looking forward to see Obama on Tuesday. If my sons are not watching at school on Tuesday, we will be picking them up to watch. I was a Clinton supporter, but I really think Obama is the best choice!!

We will be getting a new President, but he is not going to perform miracles!! Please stop saying he is going to change this Country, no way!! Everyone wants change, but nothing will happen if it doesn't come from within yourself and your own life. He will not change your life!

Larry Love your show!!! This inauguration calls me to be a catalyst for change. Obama story and struggle to get to where he is today only confirm my believe in America, humanity, hard work, competency, hope & faith. Obama's calling is universal...He does not just touch the history of black and white but all. As an Asian American, I deeply touched, beyond elated and profoundly grateful & proud that America is once again coming back to its promise & living up to its ideals:)) God bless Obama & fam & USA:)))

This is the first time in my life i felt included in America. I've always loved this country, but this is the first time I felt loved by this country. I'm African American, and what I'm most impressed by is the fact that so many good white people gave a black qualified man a chance. I live in the deep south Louisiana, so there aren't many white people that I know who voted for president Oboma. The night of the election I just felt like going and huging some body white that voted for Mr Oboma, but I didn't know any. God Bless America and thankyou to all the good white people who saw a black man for his character and not his skin color.

As a supporter of Hillary Clinton always, I am pleased to say that I now think Obama probably is the best person to be president at this moment in time. He has skill sets that most of our politicians do not possess when it comes to moving and unifying people of all types. At this moment, we are the most divided we have been since the Vietnam War. Obama has the intelligence, the maturity, the energy, the zeal, and the political team to help us revitalize our country and its place in the world.

Hello Larry,

I am so excited about the swearing in ceremony for President-Elect Obama. I plan to watch the inauguration on CNN in the comfort of my home. I have a hotel room, but the crowds has turned me off. Thank God for travel insurance.

I now feel like America view African-Americans as AMERICANS!!! It truly is a wonderful feeling!!!

Millions of angry gun nuts who need mental help.

The dream of Martin Luther King Jr. coming true and a new beginning for our Nation.

It feels like "our Kennedy" has been elected. Obama has given our country a hope that we have not felt in my time. He is so much more than a Black man he is the RIGHT man.
I would like to hear someone give Pres. Johnson some propers reguarding the progress our country has been able to make. He did a whole lot for the Civil Rights movement.

Let's all pray that our new president put the Lord first, for sure we can not go wrong.

Hi Larry-
Your show tonight is great! I have to say that I am very excited about our new President, Barak Obama. I am a white woman-a fact that is not important. I have heard many people tonight comment that history is being made because we have our first african american president. What a symbol of our American diverisity, that we are all able to see past skin color-something that should have never been a problem. To me it is so much more than history being made based on skin color; It is that we are able to see people and their ideas and this proves that no one should ever think that the color of their skin should stop them from making a difference. We are all in this together. I hope that as a country we are all seeing that America is moving to see our common goals reached. It is not the color of your skin, your religion, or your sexual preference that identifies who you are. I am so proud to be an American-I know the best is yet to come. We are "Living the dream", ALL of us. Keep your hearts open!

To answer, what this means: We (africa american) have had a lot of first.. first black this, first black that... but his is the final frontier... we can do anything now. ..no more you can't do.. yes we can.

History in the making, Obama represents hope, inspiration and unity which we have not seen in this country since JFK.......

I feel that the cloud that has been over this country is now lifting.

US Airways 1549's amazing story feels like a metaphor of what Barack Obama's presidency will be for this country. Just like Sully, President Obama's cool, calm, deliberate, brilliant leadership will guide this ship in peril to safety. I've never been more hopeful or certain of anything. His color, while historical, is so secondary to "the man himself."

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, "I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character." That day is here, and will come full circle January 20, 2009. Regardless of your political affiliation, history will be witnessed, as Barack Obama is sworn in as the 44th President of the United States of America.

Martin Luther King's dream has come true. As a Jewish child growing up in the deep South, I have waited 40 years to see the realization of this miraculous, hopeful possibility come true. I first saw Obama speak in 2006 and I felt deep in my heart that there was a very hopeful promise of him becoming the next President. A new day in history has dawn, and I'm thrilled to be able to witness it and to work toward a better country with other Americans.

The inauguration means to me,…not only change but, a new generation of acceptance and open minds. I know that I will being telling my children and grandchildren about this day. When they come and ask me “do you remember when…” I will proudly respond ,”YES, I do remember that inauguration of the 1st black president, even though I was not their in person, I was still watching it on tv and I will for sure remember that moment”. Even though I am a young white women, I can still understand the trirumph, that this new presidency means to the African American community. I believe that these some of my favorite quotes…. clearly demonstrate the words that meny of us can not put together.

“The credit belongs to those who are actually in the arena, who strive valiantly; who know the great enthusiasm, the great devotions, and spend themselves in a worthy cause; who at the best, know the triumph of high achievement; and who, at the worst, if they fail, fail while daring greatly, so that their place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat”.
Theodore Roosevelt

“The harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly; it is dearness only that gives everything its value. I love the man that can smile in trouble, that can gather strength from distress and grow”
Thomas Paine quote (English born American Writer and political pamphleteer, whose ‘Common Sense’ and ‘Crisis’ papers were important influences on the American Revolution. 1737-1809)

“We all live with the objective of being happy; our lives are all different and yet the same”. Anne Frank

“We have become not a melting pot but a beautiful mosaic.
Different people, different beliefs, different yearnings,
different hopes, different dreams.”
Jimmy Carter

“If we cannot end now our differences,
at least we can help make the world safe for diversity.”
John F. Kennedy

“At bottom every man knows well enough that he is a unique being,
only once on this earth;
and by no extraordinary chance will such a marvelously picturesque piece of diversity in unity as he is,
ever be put together a second time.”
Friedrich Nietzsche

“If we are to achieve a richer culture, rich in contrasting values, we must recognize the whole gamut of human potentialities, and so weave a less arbitrary social fabric, one in which each diverse human gift will find a fitting place.”
Margaret Mead

“America is not like a blanket – one piece of unbroken cloth. America is more like a quilt – many patches, many pieces, many colors, many sizes, all woven together by a common thread.”
Rev. Jesse Jackson

“As long as the differences and diversities of mankind exist, democracy must allow for compromise, for accommodation, and for the recognition of differences.”
Eugene McCarthy

“You cannot bring about prosperity by discouraging thrift. You cannot help small men by tearing down big men. You cannot strengthen the weak by weakening the strong. You cannot lift the wage-earner by pulling down the wage-payer. You cannot help the poor man by destroying the rich. You cannot keep out of trouble by spending more than your income. You cannot further the brotherhood of man by inciting class hatred. You cannot establish security on borrowed money. You cannot build character and courage by taking away men’s initiative and independence. You cannot help men permanently by doing for them what they could and should do for themselves.”
William Boetcker

“We have the ability to achieve, if we master the necessary goodwill, a common global society blessed with a shared culture of peace that is nourished by the ethnic, national and local diversities that enrich our lives.”
Mahnaz Afkhami

“Infinite diversity in infinite combinations… symbolizing the elements that create truth and beauty.”
Commander Spock, Star Trek

“The wave of the future is not the conquest of the world by a single dogmatic creed but the liberation of the diverse energies of free nations and free men.”
John F. Kennedy

“The most certain test by which we judge whether a country is really free is the amount of security enjoyed by minorities.”
Lord Acton

“The real death of America will come when everyone is alike.”
James T. Ellison

“A human being is a part of the whole that we call the universe, a part limited in time and space. He experiences himself, his thoughts and feelings, as something separated from the rest — a kind of optical illusion of his consciousness. This illusion is a prison for us, restricting us to our personal desires and to affection for only the few people nearest us. Our task must be to free ourselves from this prison by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living beings and all of nature.”
Albert Einstein

It means that I may be able to make it in my retirement if Obama exempts seniors from income tax under $50,000 and makes it so my partner and I can be equal under the law to straight married couples.

The inauguration means everything to me! It is the end of separatism. It is the beginning of civility and honesty in the White House. Obama will bring us back as a country. Unlike Bush, he will "care" about this nation. Never in 50 years have I been so impressed or looking forward to an inauguration like this.

Finally we are going to solve this immigration problem. thank you obama!

Hey Larry,

What do you have planned for your show on the night of inauguration? Will it be worth staying up until midnight? I am so excited about Obama and I know CNN will have the best coverage. I don't want to miss anything.

Gloria

From Canada because I believe we are so connected. I finally feel optimistic about the future of my children and grandchildren.

It means so much to me. It finally means that the walls are finally coming down. There is finally change coming where Black,brown,red,green,white and everything else including GBLT are finally able to come together with out prejudiced, That we are finally one. I am so proud to be an American

To me this means that everyone is sitting at the same table and desert comes on Tuesday.

I wrote a palindrome for our new president:
Ma I am a boy: Obama I am.

I just had to share my experience with everyone! I still have goosebumps.

Wow! I had been watching the Obama Express coverage throughout the day (on CNN, of course ;)) I had to go to New Carrollton, MD to pick up someone from the train station-oh no,I was going to miss the live coverage! I get to the train station in what felt like zero degrees and her train was delayed... Just when I was about to get upset, I see 8 cops and one says..."sorry u can't go upstairs because of security...the Obama Express will be here in five minutes.. u will get very close if you go over there." Right away, nothing else mattered... zero degrees felt like a beautiful sunny day sipping a refreshing drink w/an umbrella. Waiting anxiously with the crowd was euphoric-words cannot explain it.The train slowly went by...didn't stop....but it felt as if I had just met the President of the United States. As the train went by in slow motion with the flag on the back, I was overwhelmed with a feeling of "Hope" and "Change”. Yes We Can!

Finally some youth in the White House. God speed Barack Obama

A rare combination of intelligence, common sense, the willingness to listen and wonderful communicative talent in a President who will empathize and become a role model for a young generation which has lived on the entitlements their parents have loved and spoiled them with.

This time in history means fearing timelines on blacks in America! Overjoyed about the Inauguration of Pres. Elect Barack Obama but very fearful! I will get to find out how people really think. Will it really matter too be black in America. Do I have to change after the election? How will my children and I deal with the expectations that will be coming after the inauguration is over and trust me, we will be taking blame on our jobs for everything that President Obama doesn’t do to fit the status quo. I am excited about the Inauguration of Pres. Elect Barack Obama but yet puzzle with anxiety because my white counterparts are expecting the sky to crack open on the day after the inauguration as if a miracle will happen at 12:01. They are looking for President Barack Obama to be like the return of the second coming. I am worried about the hoopla being over with because I fear that no man is an island, no man stands alone, each man as my brother, each man as my friend will be a quote that I will have to keep interjecting into people who don’t take it seriously at heart during the days ahead for the President. Oprah, I am happy, overjoyed and still in awe but yet I can’t sleep because people around me are setting timeline on blacks like never before. Please, Please, tell America that it takes one day at a time! Because I need some rest!

Its a great achievement for our nation for the progress it has made. This stands for all which Martin Luther King fought for.

Best Wishes to our President Elect – Barack Obama

Larry...great show as always...I was at the Edgewood, MD "Slow Roll" today and it was incredible ! The President Elect and Vice-President Elect in my backyard !

...Cold but incredible ! I was excited to see Obama/ Biden win in November ...now I 'm Really excited to see all this pageantry, ceremony, and history...I will be watching CNN on Tuesday for all the festivites !

Mike

The Inaguration of the President Elect Obama means a lot to me. I think he will bring a sense of peace and unity to both America and will also make the rest of the world look at America differently. Obama with our help, will again make America a strong nation again. It will not happen overnight but it will happen.

As a young person It means new hope for the country and the future at a time when a lot of young people thought that our future looked grim. It makes you want to get involved and say What Can I do to help? It is a time of Great Pride in our country. Thank God for Barack Obama!!!

I could care less. I can't stand the constant comparisons of Obama to Kennedy, Lincoln, Moses, etc. Maybe let the man do something first and then congratulate him. Don't crown him king because he is the first black president. He has done nothing.

Larry- We are sooo excited about Obama becoming President.My husband and I can truly say to our sons(11 and 8) that you can actually be President and really mean it. It is a great time for my family
and for our country. Maybe the racial barriers will be torn down. My 4 year old daughter,says look ,mommy they are brown just like me. How wonderful.

I will be glad to see Obama actually do something, good or bad.

It means i can finally have confidence in my President.
President Bush only inspired contempt from me.
This President Obama will be fantastic. He has intelligence and
can speak well and will be great.

I was born In Haiti, First Black Republic, I grew up in the United States, I have two boys, both Americans, born in the United States.

What does this day mean to me?

I can look at my two boys in the eyes and tell them"

"YES YOU CAN be anything you want be, YES, even President of the united states"

I never thought I would see this day, I am happier than most because I have this believe that my beloved country, Haiti, had something to do with this day in the history of the United States of America.

We fought for this day, and we have been paying the price for more than 200 years.

I was not alive ding the days of Toussaint Louverture, I was not alive during the days of Martin Luther King, I am Happy to be alive during the days of Barack Obama.

God Bless Haiti, God Bless America.

President Elect Obama's Inauguration means MORE THAN THE WORLD TO ME! As a teacher of music, I look forward to watch President Elect Obama work to fix the education system in America! I would like to let President Elect Obama know that I am one of the thousands of teachers that will fight to preserve and rejuvinate our Nation's Education System!

This inauguration is of the people, by the people and for the people. Finally the constitution rings true.

A new beginning for the country with a sane government that will have to undo years of destruction of the American way of democracy.

I saw JFK campaign when I was just six years old; & got to see Obama do that now that I'm fifty-five. There is a connecting thread between the two: the intelligence, the inspiration & charisma, the dedication & leadership. I have never been more proud to be an American-Barack Obama is a president for ALL the people! May God bless his presidency.

It is really simple. This is the start of hope. Hope that we will begin setting right so many wrongs committed by this country over the last several years. Hope that we will regain our leadership role in the Universe. Hope that we will again be able to claim that we are an ethical and righteous country. Hope that we will again become a nation that lives up to our own and the world's expectations. In the least, hope that we will set right the wrongs committed by the previous administration. And all this is not just hope, it is a forecast 🙂

Hello Larry. It is very exciting and historical to most Americans to see President Elect Barack Obama getting ready to be sworn in as the 44th President of the United States.
What I am tired of hearing over and over again though is the statement that Mr. Obama is the first African American President. This is true in a way but actually and in reality Barack Obama is bi-racial and not all African American. As I see it if your mother is Caucasian and your father is African, that makes their child half White and half African.
Iti s ridiculous that this is not being taken into account and it should be an insult to the President Elect that half of his ancestry is being totally ignored.
Whether this makes the program or even is mentioned at all, I just thought I would bring this to your attention . Barack Obama is Bi-Racial and it must still be true that even a drop of black blood make you an African American.

Why was James Taylor wearing an eye patch?

I wish my mother were still alive to see this...she, like Obama's mother, died far too young, and was equally visionary. She would have exhulted in this... and I will be exhulting for us both.

I'm a blind college student working on my degree in broadcast journalism and this inauguration means that people like my self will find it easier to get a job once I'm finished with school.

This inauguration means renewal. Its a time when Americans can put aside differences and self interest and begin to work for positive change in our country. It means rolling up our sleeves and supporting a President who understands what family and wholesomeness means.

I believe this will be the first President in a long time who will address the violence in our inner cities that is just as dangerous to the well-being of our country as terrorism.

I believe he will call upon the CEO's of our major corporations and institutions to think about the well-being of the companies they run and ultimately the country they live in and less about lining their pockets beyond reason.

I believe we finally have a President who understands that a flourishing Middle Class bodes well for this country.

I think that having Obama as an African American president will bring down some of the racism. I also think that he will do a better job of trying to fix our economy and our beautiful country!

I come from an avid strongly Republican family and yet find this to be an exciting time in the midst of tough economic times. I certainly look forward to a bipartisan effort to get everything back on "track" again. It helps that President Elect Obama is so positive and excited to take the presidency during a not-so-easy time. I'm keeping him, his family, and staff in my prayers to exercise incredible wisdom and discernment in the days ahead.

Hi
I am so excited about this inauguration and of Obama becoming president. Here in Montreal everybody are happy and where I live it a black (Haitians) district, it,s so nice to see that community happier than ever.
I wish I could be in Washington tghis weekend.
Happy inauguration everybody

Régis

As an African American this innauguration symbolizes great hope and unbelievable achievement for America in the fight for social justice....as a gay man, current events such as the passing of Proposition 8, the invitation of Rick Warren and other struggles the LGBT community faces, this innauguration also symbolizes the complete passing of the social injustice batton to Gays and Lesbians across the nation....

I traveled 8000 miles to come to DC to witness Barack's Inauguration. It means a lot, but my first thoughts are that It means I can travel abroad and be proud to tell people that I am American. Other Americans who live abroad can empathize with me, I'm sure.

Not since the election of President JFK has there been such positive optimism for our country and Lord knows we certainly need it!!

As a Canadian sharing a border, natural resource and political freedom, the leadership of the United States is of paramount importance to us. We are as excited as Americans about the promise of a man who is not only intelligent and eloquent but a man who is street smart and balanced. Barack Obama, your Canadian neighbours welcome you with open arms.

Why does the media refer to President Elect Obama only as African-American when he is in fact the first bi-racial President?

I feel like this is the biggest and most positive thing that has happened in my lifetime. I've got such an overwhelming feeling that better times are to come. I DO have hope for the first time in years. I'm so grateful to Mr. Obama already!

If Obama is half of what the media thinks he will be, that will make him twice what I think he will be. By the way, from what you all say, I fully expect him to raise Lazarus from the dead after the ceremony.

im thirteen and the inauguration means a lot to me because he inspired me to never give up and as a african american i now believe that i can once become a president. I would love to go but i cant due to the economy

it means that i can stop telling my children what they can never be god have showen us all we have no right to say never cause its some thing can not control
the word never

I became a citizen in October and I am so extremely happy my vote did make a change.. Yes We Can and Yes We Will.......

It let me know that all thing are possble if you beliven in god. I'm 51 old black man I wish that I could be there to see it,but I will be at work I hope that I may see some of it on TV.

Now we can truly say " We the people"

I think we should remember and thank God for working through Martin Luther King Jr. and Abraham Lincoln. It is by the Grace of God and Jesus Christ that bondage is broken and justice is served. I see why Lincoln is so imortant to President-elect Obama.

As an Australian I am happy and proud for your beautiful country. We love him as well down under.

It is a chance for me to be cautiously optomistic about our country. There hasn't been this kind of enthusiam for a president elect since JFK. It makes me proud to be an american again!

We, the people

Stand together. Raise our one voice
Proclaim diversity
Our common bond,
Our strength,
Bridging futures

We, the people

United for the common good
Beyond sea to shining sea
Listen,
Respect all people
Around the globe

We, the people.

SUBJECT: BURDEN OF CHANGE:
2009 WEIGHS THE BURDEN OF CHANGE UPON US. IF WE ARE TO SURVIVE WE MUST QUITE OUR BEING AND TRAVEL TO THE CENTER OF OUR SOUL TO WAKE UP OUR INTUITIVE KNOWELEDGE WHICH WILL REVEAL TRUTH AND SHOW US THE WAY TO OUR PLANETS NATURAL CULTURAL SYNCHRONIZATION.
:
2009
I dedicate one word and one person
1. BOLD
2. ABRAHAM LINCOLN (he has ALWAYS been my favorite)
It’s a new year and a pivotal time, to progress one must be BOLD. Boldness comes from the core of ones soul – it comes when it’s time for change.
Abraham Lincoln is a man commendable of highest esteem. He came from meager beginnings and rose to prominence because of his BOLDNESS and because he believed in something from the inner core of his soul. Nothing could stop him and his spirit lives through the generations that will never let him die.

At Last not Dr. Martin Lutheran Dream came true! Tuesday is going to be an amazing Historic Day for all citizens of the United States! God Bless America.

The inauguration of Barack Obama is a dream come true for the entire African American race. He has broken stereotypes and defeated prejudices that have existed for thousands of years. I wish him well and pray for him to have much strength in fixing the things that are broken in our nation. We love Obama!

I am a St. Lucian studying in the USA and I am thrilled to be in the states during this historic time. Larry King, I never thought this would happen in my lifetime. Now, I believe. Yes I can, and yes I will.

I may be Canadian, but I can tell you that even though we have our own Prime Minister, the hope that Barack brings to not only the U.S., but to the world, I gladly call him OUR president as well. Good job, America.

This Inauguration means that America will be respected and looked upon as the greatest nation once again.

I am so proud to be an American! The Country got it right, and President Obama is Dr. King's Dream! I knew this day would come – we are one America!

At long last, it appears that white supremacy in American is over.
We are soon to be a multi-colored country. Diversity has won.

Frank Thompson
Ruidoso, New Mexico

I'm loving the coverage. For the first time since Bobby, I have hope and a feeling of excitement. My emotions are riding high, as I know they are for millions of others. I believe they also have an extraordinary hope for the first time in decades.

Personally, this inauguration means the struggles my grandparents and great grandparents went through have finally showed accomplishment. I thank all of my ancestors for giving up themselves for our current success. I am excited to watch Obama and Michelle represent African Americans around the world, showing young adults like myself and students of color that they can too.

Barack Obama is bi-racial. Why does the media , including you , keep saying he is an African American. I have a bi-racial daughter whose father is a black jamaican man and I am a white women and this hurts me to think that my daughter is only considered black as if I don't exsist. She is just as much white as she is black. And so is Barack Obama.

Larry, this is the beginning of us evolving into the human beings that god intended us to be , not being judge by the color of our skin but by the contents of our soul.

I’m happy to see a black president (I’m white and Canadian). I rejoice in the healing that it brings to America, but I would be better able to rejoice with you on the inauguration and on Barack’s election if it were not for all the commentators and celebrities saying that the past eight years need to be so repudiated. I think the past eight "Bush years" were good years and Tuesday's start of a new administration should be another celebration of how the American way has continued to prosper and maintain so many good things. "Change" was not a result of Mr.Obama's election. It is always happening and the chance for another capable president is reason enough to celebrate. By the way, I hope CNN hangs around in Washington on Thursday, Jan-22 when the annual prolife march happens on the Washington Mall. Usually the niece of Martin Luther King plays a major role, as does "Jane Roe" who is really prolife now and has never had an abortion.

We are at the precipice, a revolution of sorts, a convergence of event where we the people of this great nation has made clear their voice. We no longer want to focus on the color of skin, the religious beliefs of individuals.

We want a nation that is in tune and addresses the needs of the people. CHANGE has long been in the wind, Obama was the catalyst to reaffirm this.

I am excited for our future, disappointed that I could not witness this historic event personally, with my family!!

The inauguration of a Black American President of the United States of America is the one most unexpected, wonderful dream come true.

So many have died for the rights that some don't believe that they should have. Even through they enjoy them, themselves.

I know that this is not the end of the hate that exists in America, but it shows that there is still hope, that all of God's people will be able to love one another and live together in peace.

The hype will be over and it'll be another body occupying the position with broken promises and unfilled dreams.

As a college student of the late 60's the Obama inauguration is the culmination of a hope in seeing the true face of democracy in my life time finally come to the White House. The pride in seeing a bi-racial president who embodies the hopes of the every day citizen and actually voices them (and intends to act on them) is such an historic moment for all Americans and the world that I can literally feel the hope of the people rising above the detriments of these economic times.

Our new President has been talking to me and trying to make our whole nation more inclusive. I feel as if for the 1st time in my 48 year life someone in Washington hears me!

The Innaguration of Obama means "Hope" to me for the future for my children and grandchildren and everyone not only the US but the World. The US needs something to be Positve about and Obama is just the Ticket! He is Brilliant and has surrounded himself with a Brilliant Team who will lead us into a bright prosperous future!

The inauguration of Barack Obama does not in anyway say that he broke down any barriers. It proves that in reality, the barriers never existed. It only takes the will and determination by an individual to get up and go do anything they wish.

President-elect Obama represents hope and unity. He is both Black and White. Why isn't that dicussed more? What an example of unity for all Americans. Yes, he is Black but he is also White.

Kathy
Baton Rouge

When Dr. Martin Luther King stated 'We shall overcome', I feel he was also addressing white people as well as black people. As a white person, I feel that we have had to overcome a history of perpetuating rascism, segragation, bias. It feels that we have made great strides in overcoming this stain on American history. It feels like real change. Happy Birthday Dr. King!

to me, as an inmigrant and proud US citizen of 30 years, means that my kids and their kids will have the chance of becoming President of the United States.

I WAS BORN 1/20/45 AND ON TUES I'LL GET AN AWESOME BD PRESENT.I HAVE ALWAYS LOOKED AT THE HEART SOLE AND MIND OF A PERSON RATHER THEN COLOR.I CAN HONESTLY SAY BARACK OBAMA HAS HEART SOLE AND A GREAT MIND. AND HE WILL BRING THE CHANGES WE NEED. ONCE AGAIN OUR COUNTRY WILL BE OF THE PEOPLE FOR THE PEOPLE AND BY THE PEOPLE.I AM A PROUD AMERICAN AND LOVE MY COUNTRY.
THANKS,CHARLOTTE/AZ

I saw Maya Angelou on Larry King shortly after the election and she said that it was not so much an election as a non-violent revolution. That pretty much sums it up for me. Since my college days in the 60s I have awaited the revolution and given the historical power of the civil rights movement this could be it.

This inauguration means so much to me. It is not only an historic moment in swearing in the first African-American as President of the United States, but it is also the full representation of our nation's growth, our progress, and that we can be a truly united America, once we simply put our minds to it. It is a time where not just one race benefits, but also a time where all Americans can be proud of, and the world can see the unity in our government as well.

This Inauguration means a new era for our great nation. Obama and his energetic constituency have brought enthusiasm, inclusiveness and hope to a time of epochal challenges. Optimism is the fuel of progress even, and perhaps especially, if the engine is broken. The spirit of the sixties is reincarnated. This granny couldn't be more proud.

It means free at last. Not just for the black people of America but for the black people all over the world.

I'm 58 yrs old lived through 3 major assasinations MLK JFK RFK finally a new beginning.. All hopeful. Also Big JT fan What happened to his eye?

As a 46 yr old female of DE I was part of desegregation, I am thrilled having Barack as our new Chief. As well as OUR Joe Biden! The train was awesome as most of my family has worked for the railroad. Almost 100 yrs of relatives. I look forward to the new year and a new America. God Bless America

It means that our country has come full circle. It means that there is now a stirring of hope throughout our country. I am 57 and it has inspired me to do more to help our country. Obama has given most the beleif that their own dreams can come true as well!

I'm so glad to see Barack Obama become president. Now, just maybe this can start a new trend of how African American youngsters look at life. Now they know they can be more than a rapper that curses and demoralizes their women and children. This is wonderful. Oh yeah....by the way....I'm African American and a school teacher.

Barack Obama is the face of 21st century America. He is half black, he half white, his mother was Christian, his father was Muslim, his mother was American, his father was Kenyan. I am a cutting edge Baby Boomer. We have had 16 years in the White House...some good and some horrible. I'm happy to pass the torch to the next generation and I pray that unlike the current adminstration that they learn from the lessons of history.YES WE CAN!!!

I cried as I watched the freedom train.....it was filled with the Audacity of Hope...I wish the Obamas and Bidens health and prosperity very Sincerely

When it comes down to it. I want someone who is smarter than I am; who went to Harvard running the country. When Barack Obama speaks, he draws your attention. You are compelled to look and listen. President Bush did NOT captivate anyone's attention like that, infact when Bush spoke he sounded so uneducated it was painful.
Forget about the race of Obama, he has the gift-of-gap. This is going to be a good president.

What this means to me is hope for a new America, and a new future that Barack is going to bring to Washington its just amazing!!!!!!!

It means that we can again have the respect form the worldc that we once had.
A wonderful unbeliveable new beginning for so many Americans and for the world

We are so excited about this election. This election has shown us that dreams do come true. We can give this fact to our children and their children they too can be president. This is historic not just for the United States, but for the world.

I live in Indonesia where Barack spent much of his childhood. Here everyone you meet knows about our new president ..from taxi drivers in the capital to farmers in remote villages... everyone . . They all hope he will find a way to end the war. Finally I can be proud again to be an American.

This inauguration of an African-American means Change to me. This is a special day for America and the world. I am proud to be a black woman and I know Barack will a great President for America and I have every confidence he will turn things around. I wish him all the best.

Obama's inauguration means the transformation from accepting the culture of "all for me" to a culture of "all for us." It means the top politicians are aligned with those of us who have been toiling in food banks and serving our communities all these years.

I understand he is the first black president, great, historical, inevitable, but I don't get all the hoopla over the inauguration of this president or any president. It is too ceremonial and regal. The expectations placed on Barack Obama seem unrealistically high. He is not the messiah but a regular man who will do the best job possible for America and the world. He is being set up for disappointment as no one could live up to the expectations placed upon him.

I am inspired. It is time to move on and stop bickering and being petty over things. Like Lincoln's second inaugural address, let us practice the "With malice toward none" attitude when it comes to bridging the divide that has permeated the country for too many years. Let's move on! Let us live up to the American ideals that have made this such a great country. I believe that Obama can be the uniter we've been looking for for so long. Let us once again be the beacon toward which much of the world can once again look to with hope and inspiration.

It means that as an African-American female, I can see my country is demonstrating "sweet liberty"! It means that I can see this event with my daughters that are 15 and 13 years old and be extremely proud and excited to witness this with them. My husband and I are taking them in the morning from Ohio to Florida to view this inauguration with my uncle and aunt who are 89 and 78, respectively. This will be historic for us all to witness as a family with such generational diversity perspective to capture throughout the day. This is something that not only the country has anticipated, but the world is getting ready to witness! A country is beginning to turn the table of racial divide & truly make history. What a fabulous time to be alive! I thank God that I get to witness this opportunity. Oh and by the way, BARACK MEANS BLESSED!!!!

It's a big day for all of us as we experiance yet another change in government, and this time is an African-American taking oath of office. It's a dream come true. What a happy day looking forward to it.

I am simply in awe of the endeavor President elect Obama is about to undertake and the world wide reaction. I am so proud to be an American!

I have listened and watched many of his speeches- in my view he is different. this inguration signals change, it denotes that big things start with a dream and if we belive in that dream long enough the reality can influence change and bring hope. The world needs to understand that our colour may be different but the same red blood run in our viens, we are hurt by the same wounds and pleased with the same desires. Obama seems to be someone who can move America to realise this and in doing so change the way the world look at the united states.

I believe this is the beginning of a better world. Barack sees the reality of so many problems we are all facing today. You can't fix problems unless someone sees and acknowledges them. He is our hope for solutions and seems to have a calm, methodical approach to challenges. We need that. It is nice to see someone my age become President of the United States :). My children who are also bi-racial now have a fabulous example of someone who also had a white mom and black father as they do. He is the bridge between races with a belief in HOPE for a better world. God Bless him and his family as they look towards the inauguration. I do believe he will make a wonderful leader and now more than ever we need him!

How can anyone get tired of the hype? Its exhillerating to finally
see the country in a possitive frame of mind – after 8 years of
missery! The inaugeration of Obama will be the proudest moment
of my 40 years in the US. I choose to be an American and its
finally going back to what I always believed it was about.

It is simply wonderful, i have watched cnn all day today and will look forward to everything that will be on cnn till tuesday when presisent ellect obama is sworn in liz.. from canada

I am so proud as an American voter to be observing a positive part of our history. My son and daughter were able to vote for the first time this year and I am thrilled that they can see the benefits of being a part of the American presidential process.
Deb Pederson

This inauguration means that mixed race people will be more accepted. People will now see us as normal people, not "different."

Larry....I live in Alberta, Canada and I've been following Barrack Obama for close to a year now....this event means change and hope in the belief that the end to all oppression is emmenient and will no longer be tolerated.

Being a born and raised Illini now living in Juneau Alaska and an African American I couldnt be prouder for my old state, country, and the next generations to come! I work with middle school kids, some who have never left Alaska , who are so excited for this and hopefully will be able to understand what history they are witnessing, not only for them but for their kids someday as well! Mr obama is the perfect man at a perfect time for this job!

I honestly have a lot of respect for Obama, and I'mnot saying this in a adulation way. I respect him for taking this train ride and reaching out to his constituents, rather than talking down to us, he wants to engage and involve us in the process. He's not out for idoltry like a lot of politicians are, I honestly think he is interested in what's good for the country. Can't wait for Tuesday!! Godspeed!

I have NEVER taken an interest in any presidential election or inauguration. I tend to be rather a fatalist. However, with a 19 y.o. son working for the Obama campaign all last year, my interest was piqued. That interest has swelled into such a feeling of pride and hope. I get chills every time I look at Obama and I see hope in his eyes. I love that he is a "regular guy", yet so intelligent and insightful. He is the one to lead the US at this time and I feel hopeful that we can rise again as a country of promise. I am taking the day off on Tuesday, to watch the inauguration. That's a first, as well. Go Obama!

LARRY,

This means that my vote really did mean something in a positive manner and made me feel like somebody there in the White House really will care about the lower paid scale of society in the United States. Many of the others there made promises on a better future but always was reminded by those CEOs of the big companies that also gave significant contributions for the Campaign which made them always break their promises of providing for that better future.

I'm glad that Barack Obama put everything up there on the table for all to see and nothing to hide. His views on the war are also significantly smarter views that makes sense because I am also a veteran of the Persian Gulf War and still trying to get my disability from the injuries that I received form my time serving there in Iraq but it is a very slow and painful process. I hope that his means of ending that war the right way will also put more of a reflection back upon those of us who served our country and did get injured in serving that cause. Barack Obama seems to have a better sense in accepting responsibility for things that he is involved with and that is truly a President that I will still be proud to work for as a Department Of Army Civilian. This means that my voice was also heard and makes me prouder to be an American.

As a Canadian I am totally fascinated with Obama, and have been for over a year. I am a Conservative but was drawn to a very eloquent man, you as Americans should feel extremely proud to have elected since an endearing person who has given hope to the entire world. I am taking Tues off to watch this historic journey; and I will only be watching on CNN. Thanks for your wall to wall coverage- Super

This is our chance, as a nation, to once again become a nation. Barak Obama is giving us the chance to become one. I feel encouragement and excitement.

The Inauguration of President Elect Obama means "We the people, one for all, all for one, and, I have hope that this administration will bring accountability for Corporate American and Wall Street to the fore front.

To me the inauguration means a new day, and a new time; a chance to apologize to the world for the wars, the torture, the bullying, the greed and the apathy of the previous administration. It is the beginning of a new America, a caring, hard working place where we stand together to correct the problems of the past and to show the world we want to live together in harmony with respect to all.

President-Elect Obama's swearing in as the 44th President of the United States means we as a nation are turning the page on divided government that has been going on for at least two decades. It means that all Americans have a role no matter how big or how small in how our country is run, we finally now have a voice in our government. What a great day for our nation and to be an American!

I am a 70 year old white woman who has worked for women's rights, civil rights, and worker rights and for peace issues and all I can do this weekend is watch your coverage and weep for joy. Why did it take so long? P.S. I am from Illinois and loved Obana before most people knew who he was.

I'm sorry Blake this is more than an inauguration this is what my family died for. This is what so many people black and white thought they would never see. For you to say, "I’m so tired of hearing about how special this is", then I need you to reevaluate the world we live in. This is America and we made a statement and the rest of the world is watching. This is more than an inauguration this is History.

I KEEP ASKING MYSELF IF THIS IS A DREAM, HOWEVER TO NO AVAIL I AM WITNESSING HISTORY IN ITS TRUEST FORM. I AM OVERJOYED TO BE AN AMERICAN. NO LET ME SAY I AM OVERJOYED TO BE A BLACK AMERICAN

I dont care for this inauguration at all.
My feeling is that Americans mostly voted because they wanted to be part of history rather than choosing the person with the experience lead the nation.
Proof of Obamas pop star status is shown everyday on TV. I can buy the Barack Obama plate, coin, t-shirts, and what ever else people want to sell with the Barack Obama image. Plus he is flying in with huge pop star status. He rides a train into town, he is backed by the entire media and entertainers, and soon I suppose there will be a cape and a shirt with O on it.
I am sorry, but Barack Obama is going to have to prove a lot more to me concerning leading our nation and a little less of being an entertainer.

I am a white female, age 57. I grew up with segregation and no blacks allowed on restaurant signs and other public places. I was brought up to respect and accept all human beings the same, thanks to my parents. I am very proud to have an intelligent, well spoken and a man of the people president. Good luck President Obama

To me the inauguration of Barak Obama means not only new hope, a chance to change the country and solve some of our problems, but to me specifically it means that we now have have a president who is not afraid to not only be smart, but seem smart, who is unafraid to say and show that education is important, that teachers and professors are important - it means that my work (I am a professor) is validated. Barak Obama is living proof that what I do is not an "elitist" hobby, but a vital activity. Someone in power, the president of the most powerful nation of the world, is showing my students that knowledge and learning is beautiful, knowledge and learning is good, knowledge and learning is powerful - and it is American!
I am thrilled to be once again included in the fabric of this nation!

It's quite amazing to see the response. Ronald has sure been busy today.

I think once Obama has officially become President, the "States of America" will be more "UNITED" than it has EVER been !!

This inauguration means many things to many people. For those who've been oppressed and discouraged the prospect for hope and a new beginning is a realization much needed and absolutely much welcomed especially for our forfathers who made the greatest sacrifice. For those who believe in what this inauguration of our new president can be, I support your willingness give hope a chance.

this is such a exciting time for all of america I just hope the right wing voters will stop with the negative comments about obama he will be all of our president and we should all pray and stand behind him he has an enormous task ahead of him and should all want to see him do a good job I did'nt vote for mccain but if he had won I would of stood by him and prayed for him also ,Obama is called an african american president because his father is black its the blood of our fathers that we carry read your bibles you will understand it better.It does'nt matter what color he is lets all move on together may God bless all of you.I pray that we all come together and stop all the hatred ,God bless you all

This gose to Larry King. does the Lady who lost her invitation (to the inauguration) to her PET get to bring her Pet to your hot seat? (you know, what happens to her now!)

This inauguration means that I can put my faith back in our government, We have not had a genuine person in this office in my lifetime. I feel like America will get back to being the most respected nation in the world, and only through that respect can we truly inspire and help other nations.

I'm so thrill that our President-elect is Obama.It makes no difference what nationality one is this will be an Historic Time for all of us here in the USA and the World.
Many didn't like John Kennedy because he was a Irish Catholic.
Our President -elect has so much work ahead of him to bring our Country that was starting to get ill become well again.Obama told us what many of us already knew. That it will get worse before better and that's what we must all think of when we are down look at those steps to keep going.It took 8 years to get this way and it will take a few extra generations to bring her back again.
President-elect Obama is President Material as well as Michelle,First Lady Material.There daughters will bring joy to the White House and we're so happy that Michelle's mother will be there for the little girls who will need a person that they are use to becomes their mommy will be busy.
We can't forget Joe Biden as VP and his wife Jill who are Catholics and practice their faith.I'm sure he'll be a great VP and understands what a VP stands for not giving himself more power then the President.
Bottom Line I'm a white Catholic who is very Proud that the American People made the Right Choice on election day.

it means i can hope again, dream again, and breathe again.

I am out of the country, and have been for the past three months, but I have also been fallowing Obama's progress the entire time and I just wish I could be there for the inauguration. Either way, I will fallow it on CNN, and other channels which broad cast the inauguration. It looks like Obama will do great things for our country 🙂

Barack Obama is an inspiration to all thoughtful minds and hearts. His name has a message that we would like to share with you all:

B-ring
A-ll
R-aces
A-nd
C-ultures
K-indness

H-ope

O-ur
B-eautiful
A-merica
M-oves
A-head

Perhaps one of the most talked about events in history. Before text books are written, we are living the true moments in history that so many others will read about generations from now. It is an exciting time for me, a time to be optimistic about the future, to be strong, to believe and go forward together as ONE NATION UNDER GOD.

I'm taking Tuesday off to take in the day...my greatgrand parents (born slaves), grandparent, and parents (some who went to war for this country) went to their graves never believing this day would come. My father was a career soldier, who fought in Korea and Vietnam; I retired from the U.S. Air Force as the most senior Black officer he would have ever know. He would have been blown away today. God bless America.

As a Canadian, I can only hope that my pride in being your neighbor is common to your pride in Obama.

This inauguartion is like Easter to me! This is a renewal of faith – like watching the daffodils poking their beautiful foliage and flowers up after a long cold winter. This is truly re-birth, change, and hope for all Americans!

The inauguration means change and the dawn of a new beginning. All the way from the Philippines, i feel the hope that rascism will end as Pres. Obama steps into office and a man of color leads the world. We might not be directly involved in this event but our prayers and all out support goes out for Pres. Obama.

This inauguration is phenonmenal and testimony to the fact that the foundation of all wisdom is loaded with transparency. This is also a test of America's ability to stand to ideal democratic principles and the advocation of a common interest values as a country and world leader, even in times of fragile economic probabilities.

The election means something new...America has finally noticed that we are in need of a major change. This means so much to me, I am 18 so this was my first time being able to vote and I am very glad that I voted of Obama. It feels great to be experiencing history! Something that people thought would never come! I really wish I could be in D.C. Tuesday should be a very exciting day for everyone!

How can any one who voted for Obama not love the media hype for this historic event. Once in a lifetime we get a leader like Obama. After 8 years of hell, we all fell hope, and a renewed America. Innovation, progressive thought, and the restoration of the dreams for all Americans. We lived in fear and stagnation for 8 years. I believe again! I love America again. Peace to all of us....OBAMA we love you!

This inauguration of an African-American means Change to me. This is a special day for America and the world. I am proud to be a black woman and I know Barack will be a great President for America and I have every confidence he will turn things around. I wish him all the best.

It means that all the abuse that I took as a young "Negro" growing up in Virginia wasn't in vain. We passively stood up for our rights as Americans in the 60's when I was in High school and the struggle has finally born fruit. Tolerance in the country has finally lifted its voice above division. God bless America!!

It will be a very sad day. Obama has said he will make partial birth abortion the law of the land again – meaning many babies who could be born from 6-9 months and survive will be killed in a most painful way. We might as well live in China with all it's human rights abuses.

I grew up in the shadow of the bomb. (58 years old) Always held a pessimistic view of world politics and our collective future. Because of Obama's strength of character and that he does not come from the "mold" , for the first time in my life, I am optimistic about our collective future.
Dave Cutcher (certified evil genius)

I feel our country has become even more racist – to the point of sickening. Look at the number of magazines and now the Black Enterprise Show on TV!

Imagine if we had White Magazine or a White Enterprise Show?????

I never used to notice the color of a person as I now am. It is pathetic and the country does need to grow up. And so do the TV anchors!

~ Felicity Rabe

What Does This Inauguration Mean To ME? .... Absolutely nothing!

In the spirit of reaching across the aisle, we owe it to the Democrats to show their president the exact same kind of respect and loyalty that they have shown our recent Republican president.

Larry, bout eight yrs. ago I stayed in the Hyde Park neighborhood where Barack stay now. I had a chance to meet him on a couple occassions, we walked home some nights, because you couldn't find parking in Hyde Park. One night, I was talking with Senator Barack and I ask him did he ever think about running for President. Barack said that seem kind of far fetched, I told him that he might be president someday. Now that day has come, I just wish I could see him again to remind him of that conversation. Barack was very down to earth then, as he is now. Barack didn't have a personal driver like some Chicago policticans, Barack drove his old 1997 green jeep Cherokee. Barack, if you could read this, I'm proud to be your former neighbor and Chicagoan.

iIt means - I hope – that a new era in America is dawning. Someone who can speak and think at the same time. It means a breath of fresh air.

It means to me the starting point of what should already happened years ago.... why is the most important part of this inauguration the color of Obama which has completely blinded people from the actual content of character, personality and intelligence.

HI Larry. Being Native American the inauguration of the first Black President means hope and change. My children are bi-racial and this means that they, too, can achieve their dreams. A sense of pride for me is that the President-elect acknowledged Native Americans and their struggles, something that really wasnt acknowledged before. I believe that the door has opened for change but we, as AMERICANS need to acknowledge past wrongs and move on from there. The election showed that Americans are ready to move forward, and that means coming together to build what this country was based upon.

It symbolizes hopes & Aspirations for the future. I'm so thankful to witness this day in American History. It's touching and moving all at once to witness this event.

Legend and Taylor may FEEL that Obama has a mandate. But 58 million+ people who voted for McCain would say otherwise. Winning 53% of the popular vote did not give Obama a super majority. His train ride to DC is striking me and some of my conservative friends as "show boating." In this dire economy, we need more than happy and hopeful feelings.

As a 54 year old white woman originally from East Texas, the election of Obama has given me such peace and happiness to know that the majority of our country has finally realized that every single person is of extreme value. Each person is not his income or his religion -- each person IS.

This historic Inauguration means that America has a chance to really see what an intelligent and fair person can do! It also means that many people of different races recognize what MLKing meant by the words "I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character." His desire for a future where blacks and whites among others would coexist harmoniously as equals is coming true.
Elle in Atlanta

in response to uso and collin is correct he is half white he is not the first full blooded black president. the first bi-racial is correct. why dont they mention anything about the white side? humm?! i guess being half black cancels out the white part.

I retired from teaching 2 years ago, tired & burned out. I've been "hiding out" in NV ever since, even though I know I have a "gift" & had been nationally recognized & honored in 2000 . Obama inspires me...I cry & realize I can't "hide" any more. I need to get back to teaching.

America I really want to say NOW; that, only now do I feel we
have started on the way back to this country’s leadership status
and greatness and I would like to say; that, President-Elect Obama
has given us his short comings up front; he doesn’t have to lie
about his past for the rest of his life. Now with all he displays as
supporting evidence of competency and ability as a leader; he
therefore does not have to lie about himself

I, myself, for the first time in years, am starting to feel proud of my
country once again. So especially, now with the political situation,
and with having both Barack and Michelle Obama, as they give
their patriotic expression, with the move they have started, this
impresses the hell out of me and I think this is what our country
has needed for a long, long time. It is becoming really evident
“YES WE CAN.” America can be a great country once again!

As a Jamaican/US Resident married to a US citizen with American-Jamaican kids, there is an tremendous sense of hope tied to new possibilities in minds of the international community. The fact that the first president that my kids will know about is President Barack Obama is extreamely important. Anything is possible.

My four year old son watched the entire coverage of Obama Express today and asked me what color was Obama. I replied, "he is exactly like you Jalen, black and white." He replied, that is awesome! This is what the inauguration means to me. I can tell my five kids, you can be President and it makes me so proud. For Obama to inspire a four year old, it shows that all America can be inspired to make a change!

Anyone who bah humbug's this inauguration is going to miss The Moment we have been waiting for. My first presidential election was voting for George McGovern. I never dreamed there would be a choice like Barack Obama and I am oh so grateful. In the words of Phil Lesh, "After 40 years in the desert, our time has come!"

Hi Larry...enjoying your show here in Canada! Barack Obama's inauguration means to me (and I believe, other CDNs) that there will now be a 'leveling agent' in place...at the top of the strongest nation in the world today. We will all be leaning towards the USA to see how leadership which is intelligent, caring and fair, can bring about great changes among people. God has already blessed Obama, his beautiful family and all USA citizens.

Inauguration of Barack Obama is the call to reinvent our lives and enlightenment which inspires our own contribution for making the difference in the world.

I hope that we will start being accountable. Stop the greedy political atmosphere of getting rich at the cost of our integrity. Nothing wrong with doing well as long as you aren't being unfair with the people who work for you, you work for or buy your services. Hope, Intergrity, accountablility, responsibility. I hope...

This feeling I have is very much like I felt when as a child I would lie on the floor and listen to president Roosevlt. AT that time my favorite three men were President Roosevelt, gene Autry and my father. Here I am 73 year old white woman from Georgia remembering how I felt then,the loyalty,the hero worship and trust in my president,the same way I feel now

This inauguration means a turning point in the direction of our country and a new chapter etched in the history of this great country. I believe it is the beginning of a new era and I am so excited about it. I would love to be there to see such a historical and memorable event.

This inauguration represents a new beginning for our country. A country that is so energized it just leaves one in awe., including myself.God bless this inauguration and this nation.

This inauguration is the epitomy of HOPE! I have a 9yr old daughter and to go on this journey with her has been an awesome experience. It has put an "I can do it too" spirit in our young people and although we have told them this for generations, they (we) are witnessing the dreams and hopes of our ancestors come to pass. I am so glad to be alive for such a time as this!!!!!

It means a new beginning. I hope for Ameica's future, Mr. Obama will be able to do all that he has promised to do. It's been a long eight years, it's time for a change. I hope and pray it's a great one. Thank You

The one big thing that Obama could...and should have done for our country, he did not. Mr. Obama said that he called himself an "African" American because that is how the people in America viewed him. I believe that, but Mr. Obama could have made that bridge between races smaller. He could have said, "Do not view me by my race. I am of half African decent, and half European decent. View me as an American man that has the honor to be your next President of America, who has experienced BOTH sides of my racial heritages." I hope he will still say this, and bring our country's healing of mankind one step closer. Caryle Jinright 1-17-09

Larry, I grew up in a small town ( Wilson not far from D. Gergen's home) in North Carolina in the 50's and 60's when Whites told Blacks that we could do or be anything we wanted to do as long as it was OK with them.

The inauguration of PE Obama tells me that I was right in thinking that they were wrong.

It means a change back to a time of sensibility, responsibility and caring.

I am so over this "over the top" with Obama! Enough Already! Let him take the oath and get to work and stop all the Hollywood showmanship before he gets too sickening for words.

As a Canadian I am as excited as all of you, our southern neighbours, about history in the making with the swearing in of a Great American , Barak Obama.
I think he will make The US proud once again and indeed the whole of North America.
I stand with you at this proud time in your history as I have close family all over the US who have served and still serve in your (their armed forces, marine corps, as fishermen, nurses, fighter pilots, and the list is endless.
Two of my uncles moved to the State of Maine many years ago where they raised their families with pride and always with the Stars and Stripes flying on their homes. I have my own Stars and Stripes that I will be flying in my home town in Newfoundland on Canada's east coast.
We proudly housed many Americans on 9/11 and many days after.
I meet lots of your Military personnell as they stopover in Newfoundland on their way overseas and I always say hello to some of the proudest American men and women I have ever seen as they proudly serve their country and help protect all of us.
I stand with you all with pride in who you are and proud of one of the Greatest Americans we will see in this century.
THE STARS AND STRPES FOREVER !!!!!!!!

Larry, I don't understand how anyone in America can be anything but excited and hopeful. We, the United States citizens, have grown quite tired of the conditions of our nation, one of a a state of "Stagnation." It's time to embrace our diversity and inclusion......we have desired it for such a long period. That's why we are hopeful, emotional, and fully engaged again!

It's a humbling experience to welcome a new president who is not only intelligence, but one of integrity, character, and who's fully qualified. We congratulate President Elect Obama, America and the world.

Regards,

Chris

With all of the problems that our country is having with money, my question is why are we spending sooooo much money on this inauguration? The money being wasted could be used to help many Americans that are in need right now. I think that it would be a real great thing if Obama was to say, stop the celebration and just have the ceremony for the swearing in. Also, not everyone is able to partake in the celebration, especially those of us that are not famous or rich......

Larry,
I sat-in at segregated lunch counters in Virginia when I was a freshman in college. This inauguration will allow me to finally exhale. Today I saw a picture in the paper of Obama with two workers at a plant in Ohio and the look of pride on the face of the African American man brought tears to my eyes. I think we're turning the corner as a nation.
Elizabeth

"I am a South African this reminds me of our transision in 1994. Today South Africa has NO enamies arround the world, and this is my vision for the United States of America" We have challenges like any country does, Obama will bring a whole new meaning to world peace.

It means - I hope – that a new era in America is dawning. Someone who can speak and think at the same time. It means a breath of fresh air.

As a black Canadian, we are so far away from seeing a black person rise to power in our country, dispite being known around the World for being neutral and accepting. This is why so many of us around the world are joining many Americans in celebrating this event – at this moment at this time we are living vicariously through you!

This inauguration has been long in the making. When I saw the clip where Obama announced his presidential ambitions, I quickly learned everything I could about the man. It has been an honor to follow his long campaign and I hope for America and the rest of the world to be blessed by his administration.

Why would Roland Martin describe Obama as an assassin? What a negative term. Come on Roland your vocabulary is better than that! You are a journalist!

I am so happy to see so many people from different "make-up" come together to celebrate this historic moment...However, I pray that these same folk will carry this level of excitment into the next week, month, year, etc. and hold themselves ACCOUNTABLE for making a positive change in their own lives and the lives of those around them.

This election has been terrific and very historical. From the Emantipation Proclamation to MLK to Barack Obama. I am nine years old and I Know almost all of the "I Have a Dream "speech. I am so glad to be alive to witness this. I Know some of the Gettysburg Address. I have seen the" I Have a Dream "speech. I have read and seen the full circle of history.

A friend approached me before this past presidential election and said "Oh Joel, I am so afraid that Obama's not going to win." I asked why and she said "You know that Bradley-affect thing." And I responded "It's gonna be a landslide you watch, Obama's going to win big. People change and I truly believe that America has changed." I knew America could change, because I had changed.

You better believe that I was relieved when the returns came in on the 4th of November. I knew it! I was overly emotional as I watched CNN. Every minute of every hour, as the tears streamed down my face and my heart swelled up with pride I felt a new beginning was at our doorstep and I was so proud of my fellow Americans.

I was finally witnessing the end of my lifelong journey to overcome bias and attending President-elect Obama's Inauguration would be the peak of that journey, which started in my early childhood.

I was a follower in my youth, my older brother was my protector and I spent my younger years catching up with the guys. During the 50's and early 60's racism and separation was much the norm. I can remember how freely the "N" word was thrown about; or how you would cross the street if a black person approached; or reciting those ignorant racial rhymes when those around me felt like singing them.

We were poor and growing up in a tenement which more or less put me in the same class that the people were in that I hated and I wondered why I hated them. But why?

In my teens I began to separate from my brother and his friends and began to forge my own friendships. By the age of fifteen or sixteen I became a community organizer. I liked being active in my community and when a group of hoodlums trashed a local cemetery and toppled the headstones and defaced some others, I organized a group of kids to go into that cemetery and upright the toppled headstones and clean the defaced ones.

Part of this community organizing brought me to a local church where I met with the pastor and expressed to him my feeling that kids had no place to go after school and instead resorted to creating havoc. He asked what I wanted to do about this and I said that I wanted to open a youth center in the church basement. He gave me permission and I went ahead with my plans.

The name I decided to give this gathering place for kids was, ironically, the "Open Mind" youth center. It was in this youth center that I came head-to-head with my racism and bias, I was dancing one night to my favorite singer at the time, Diana Ross, and I stopped in the middle of a song and asked myself "how could this be your favorite singer, I'm a racist?" It was at that moment I had begun my journey out of bias and into reality. This place had opened my mind.

Since that time I have lived the life of a person totally void of bias and a friend of all people. As a matter of fact when in 10th grade, I signed up for the first Black History class in high school. I was the only white kid in the class and the black kids all wondered about why I was there and I told them when asked that "I was here to learn."

This trip to Washington, DC would be the pinnacle of my life's journey out of bias and into a life of mutual respect and empathy for others. I have great hope for America.

Joel Conklin
Villa Grande, CA

Larry thank you for drawing all the different perspectives

The choice of Barack Obama as the new president in The United States has made me a believer of USA yet again; I would have never in a million years believed that America would choose a black president in my life time, but the American people proved me wrong, and I can't be more happy for all Americans and people throughout the world for this. Hopefully now Barack will step up to the plate and show the world how a great American president can be. Best of luck, mr. Obama!

i am 53' born when KING was alive' I understand the history and lived it. I am so surprized and happy that I lived to see the dream come true. Obama is a real figure and man who bring hopr to so many. He believes in the country that we are so proud to live and die for. America is a great country and we will see that Barack knows and believe we can. Yes we can. Gloria

This historic inauguration means we have a renewed sense of well being, unwavering faith in things to come, a sense of inspiration and hope for a brighter tomorrow for me, my son's generations,other generations to come and the entire world. I am a 29 yr educated african american and Obama has inspired me and totally transformed my life and ways of thinking. Obama is in indeed the man for this hour for such a time as this. You may not have voted for him, but this is a great time in our nation's history. The MLK Holiday and Obama's inauguration is symbolic of our nation's past history and is evident that CHANGE has finally come to America. MLK was the dreamer and President Obama achieved that dream. May God bless Pres. Obama and VP Biden and may God bless their family and the wonderful United States of America! The best is yet to come!

To me it means a Bitter Sweet Moment .. ( Sweet because a African American has finally been able to over come the racial issues and now have become equal in all retro aspects in the Political World.)

but

( Bitter because what Obama is setting out to do which is to unify all races and Nationality together Globally will ultimately bring about that suddden Peace And Security which is mentioned in the Bible which would still only be a temporarily fix for the human race. This will no doubt lead to Armeggedon....

I'm 35 years old. In that time I've always loved and held dear to me the values that this country were founded on, though rarely have I witnessed those values in triumph. In fact the opposite, in my mid- twenties i became an Ex-Pat because it seem that the American dream was and/had been stomped out. JFK, RFK, MLK, and even Malcom all leaders of the people... All Assasinated.
Witnessing Barrack Obama Rise to power is the first true proof in my life time that those values of the Declaration of Independance, The Constitution, and a country for the people by the people aren't just words in history books, a true living idea. It has made so proud to be an American.

I am so happy to see BerackObama become the 44th president of the United States. He will make all americans proud.

It means the world of a difference in the way I look at life. It is an overwhelming, exciting and very emotional experience. The fact that the big day is the day after Martin Luther King's Day has added to the history created.

i want to just congratulate barack obama for his success to become america's first african american president i have no objections, to his being a president but i do hope that he will stand up and stand with israel and keep israel/america together in the longest historic relationship its very important to do that also i hope he can find the means to be able to override the microchip inplants that has been told to have passed the law to be in effect for may 11 2009 for entire united states to be implanted with microchips we are not ready for that thats the bibles book of revelation that talks about that and the more so i am not ready and i wouldnt take it, but i do support president obama no matter what he does i hope he does it just right

We are trying to get an E2 visa to invest in and create jobs in America because we love your great country .
i was watching CNN today and cried more times about what i see and hear today and the months before .

and i'm a man !!
but there crying lots of men in Amerika these days.

I understand the historic importance of this inauguration, but in light of the economic morass that our country is in, I think the cost of the inauguration is obscene.

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This is an exciting day for America and the world. This is exactly what Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was talking about in his speech in Washington back in 1963. It doesn’t matter if your a Republican, Democrat, or Independant. We first — are Americans. That is something we should never forget. We have come a long way in America, Racism and Prejudice has “no place” in America anymore. This historical event will start the healing of the wrong doings from the past — especially from the African-American community.

Let’s not underestimate the power and significance of this historical event. Everyone — I mean everyone should have friends in their lives from every ethnic background.

If not, you have work to do.

Obama provides a unifying factor not seen since 9/11. I believe he is the right man for the job to get America out of this crisis.

This morning I attended the annual NAACP Breakfast for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in Fernandina Beach, FL. The feeling of joy and excitement was palpable. The joy for me is that we will soon have a president who will not rush into war, who will create more jobs, who will foster bipartisanship, who will focus on what's important, who will be a truth-teller and encourage transparency, and who will motivate us all to be a part of this journey in our own communities. I look forward to the leadership of President Barack Obama. I will no longer have to sign my e-mails "Politically Disturbed".

president barack obama will be forging tentative policies for the world on the 20th of january from the american capital.i am writing this from a small country (as big as Delaware),Nepal, to request the president to think of my country also while forging policies towards many countries around the world.america needs to have her own foreign policy on nepal and on all other smaller countries .America has failed in south asia like in many othere countries, and this is the time to be compationate towards them and create america's own policies for the reigion.

This means that my 2 African American sons can see and witness that hard work do pay off and that anything is "POSSIBLE".

This inaguration means that we will now one again have a president who has an IQ larger than a 5th grader. One who can pronounce the word nucleuar correctly, and who will work to bring the country together, not divide it.

Hurrah for humanity!!! No more labels please – our President is American! Put an end to appending labels such as Asian, African, Latin, which only emphasize division not diversity. Let us remember that here is no red or blue America. Likewise, now is the time to affirm that we are Americans – THAT IS ALL THE LABEL WE NEED!

I marched with Dr. King and believed in the dream. I marched against the Vietnam war and worked for peace. I was on the White House grounds during John Kennedy's funeral.and mourned the death of hope. I rekindled the flame in my soul during Barack Obama's campaign in North Carolina. There is nowhere else on earth that I can be on January 20th than Washington DC. This inaguration is the culmination of 65 years of my hopes and prayers for my country. Thank God it has finally come and I am going to celebrate this day for a long time.

TO ME IT MEAN THAT PERHAP ,PERHAP. THAT GREAT BANK OF JUSTICE THAT ISSUE THE NEGRO A BAD CHECK ITS FINALLY OPEN.

The inauguration will cause people of all races to become very emotional, because it's as if we were part of a national family which had been full of pain, and will continue to be for some time to come. Yet, this is a step toward healing our family, and it gives us hope toward the future. When this thought hits people, they often begin to cry. Then, we just realize what potential our country has. We begin to believe in ourselves again as a nation of freedoms.

I voted for president-elect Obama because of his values and the desire he has to make our great country even greater. As an African American, it bothered me when people made the comment that African Americans voted for Mr. Obama only becuase of his race.
I recall standing in line for 3 hours with my nephews to see former president Bill Clinton. Guess what, he is not black but I voted for him.

When Ray Charles' rendition of America the beautiful was played during CNN's Obama express today, for the first time in my 47 year life, I truly felt that God and America were shedding their grace on me.

We are one!

Where's the birth certificate?

Larry,
Raised in a christian home since a child. I have always hated slavery.

I was always thrilled when god deliveref Israel from slavery. This inaugaration consumates a long held prayer and dream. The whole world will be affected/ America is truly in a position to become a greater blessing to all nations.God will always put his approval upon love and compassion. His blessings will bring the answers to the problems the president and the people face. president obama presents himself with integrity, intellengence and a common sense perspective. I thank god for this man. lee

THIS INAUGURATION SIGNIFIES TO ME THAT THE PEOPLE OF THE UNITED STATES NO LONGER WANT TO BE DIVIDED. FOR A LONG TIME NOW I HAVE WONDERED, WHY MUST I BE THOUGHT OF AS "BLACK AMERICAN" OR "AFRICAN – AMERICAN". I AM AN AMERICAN AND THAT'S ALL THAT MATTERS. WHEN SOMETHING HAPPENS TO ONE AMERICAN IT HAPPENS TO US ALL. I THANK GOD FOR HIS DIVINE HAND LEADING US TO THIS DAY. MAY GOD CONTINUALLY BLESS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

Barack Obama is a seed that fell on good ground; he grew and blossomed beautifully. Change has come to America and I am excited to witness this God spoken event. Let Jesus lead you in everything you do, and you won't fail. I Love You.

Being a young person and first time voter, I am absolutely thrilled to see a single man instill so much hope in Americans again. It not only makes me proud to be a Democrat, but proud to be an American.

Larry, this is one of the most unbelievable moment for me. i remember before leaving africa, i had an argument with some boys after i mentioned that there will be a black president in America oneday.They said to me " you are dreaming, cause that day will never come'. In my heart, i gave up the hope and said to myself, may be, that day will come when the world is about to end. I was wrong, cause that day came so quick that , today we have an african american president -elect Barack Obama.....Amazing

obama becoming president means i can tell my four boys that they can be president if they want . and it also means that if that was a dream that i have for them it wouldnt just be a pipe dream , it could be a reality.

What, who, when oh yeh!! right after Obama spoke as I had tears in my eyes then heard the words "OK Lets Get Out of Here" CNN broadcast...who said it? Sounded like Obama.....my tears came again but with a realization that his personna is a facade. am I wrong?

The Obama inauguration means that a new president, who won the election by 54% of the electorate, is getting sworn in; period. After the hype is over I think Obama has a lot of work in store for him, and he will soon realize the seriousness of his position he holds. I can't wait for the inauguration is over so I don't have to hear about it any longer

I am more inspired that I have felt in a very long time.
I can't wait to watch the inauguration with my fourth grade students!
To share this with them, to know that I am watching this part of history with children that see a bright future in front of them because of Obama and all that his election has meant for our country. My students have grown up in difficult times. It seems that we all see light, excitement and new possibilites. I feel very happy.
P.S. Don't like the guests comment of assassin to describe Obama,
There are so many better words to describe our President.

He is the anti-christ.
He will be eliminated.
African-Americans will suffer!

Start the Day with the Lessons of Yesterday
In life, we often see the mistakes of the past as ends in themselves without knowing that they could become stepping stones for the best that is yet to come in life.

All that have happened yesterday is past and gone
We can never change them for they have been done
We can only entrust them to God, the Almighty One
And see beauty, for new life might have just begun

All things that happened to us yesterday
Have many things in them for us to tell and say
Lessons to learn if we only ponder and pray
Why God allowed them to happen to us that day

Let this wisdom we've got be our guide on the way
And look forward for the dawn of a brighter day
For we never know the great surprises they pay
If we start the day with the lessons of yesterday.

The inaguration of Barack Obama means a lifting of a dark shroud that has enveloped this country for eight years. The period of secrecy is finally over and there is a feeling of inclusiveness and HOPE. It is as if we have been holding our breath for a long time and we can finally breath again.

My family in the U.S.V.I (United States Virgin Islands) in St.Croix is crying and thankful for Barack Obama and his Inauguration. It means a lot to us. On Tuesday our house is enjoying this honorable day. It is really a day to remember so that when, I have children I can tell them about this historical day.

I am proud to be just a human being. I know Americans feel a special pride with the dawn of a new era, but we in the rest of the world do share that pride because we do endure our own struggles in life and I feel proud, very proud of the Obamas – sorry his grandmother was not able to experience this momentous occasion in the flesh, but I am sure she is smiling from above. WONDER WHERE DR J. WRIGHT WILL BE ON THE 2OTH.

Regards

Obama is about spirituality. His primary purpose is to unite humanity in this world. He is not concerned about colour or status. He is one of the most integrated individuals America has ever had. It is not about
religion which terrfies many people. It is about the human spirit that Obama understands and transcends all prejudices. The president we need for the 21st Century, and God bless him.

'THE PROOF IS IN THE PUDDING...' COME ON GIVE THE GUY A CHANCE. TIME WILL TELL THAT THIS MAN WILL INSTILL SPIRIT AND HOPE BACK INTO THE AMERICA FOR ALL AMERICANS. WHEN YOU EXPRESS AND LIVE IN DOUBT; YOU ARE PAVING A PERSONAL ROAD FOR YOURSELF...IT'S TIME TO COME TOGETHER FOR AMERICAN HUMANITY.

As a Canadian neighbour, I don't want to seem too critical, but having been around since Eisenhower, I've seen a lot of Presidents come and go, some certainly more impressive than others, but all but a few seeming to give it their ALL.
At this time I really believe the United States Of America has done something right, and I pray for Mr. Obama's safety and success. May God Bless you all.

This Inauguration to me means a fresh start.– A New Beginning. There is something about Barack Obama that inspires me to strive for the best. Although I never met him, I feel like I know him personally and like he knows me. I now truly believe that we as a country can come together and make progress.

For me its a renewed interest in government. Getting more involved, more informed and more educated. It is hope for a new kind of government, a government that is truly for the people. To see people so excited about this man, this new President, young and old, black and white, rich and poor. There are a lot of expectations resting on Obama's shoulders. We are expecting great things from this man and his administration and I have a feeling we will see them. I have great pride and admiration for our new President. May God always protect him and his family.

I am a naturalized citizen of the United States. I have reminded my children never to say that they cant ever reach their goals. Obama brings to all of us what America is really all about. A country where you can reach your goals and have the power to do so.

Obama is no different than any other past president who was innaugurated, other than his color. There should not be all this extensive, and very expensive security. He should be treated just like any other president was in the past. Just because he is black, we should not have to cater to this as much as we are. Do not misunderstand me, I wish no harm to this man in any way. I did not vote for him, but like other americans we have to give him a chance. We play the hand we are dealt. It would be nice to think that our country has learned to come together as one, but there are still many racists out there. Best of luck to the Obama staff. Brian

I feel sorry for the person that thinks this is hipe about obama .He did not know what he was voting for its not about obama its about us as americans finally coming togrther for the good of our country as a united country. we are one and stronger together than we are apart. ahouse divided can not stand. with all the problems facing our country we can not keep fighting each other. If we pull together with Gods help we can over come all the things that face this nation. President elect Obama is the guide the leader for our nation aand we need to really listen andstop hearing only what we what to here. There are some bitter pills that we will have to swallow we are not going to want to do but like all sickness we can not get well unless we take our medicine.so open up america less take abig gulp and get it down our thoart. we will be better for it.

Typical of the Commie News Network, trashing any post that doesn't exalt the Messiah.

I believe that this country has twe crisis issues. In 8 years George Bush has bankrupted our economy while fattening his cronies pockets; and made every one in the world hate us. I do not believe that anyone else in the presidential race has a better shot at fixing this.I hope I am not naive and that he doesnt let us down. Some people are exited to see him take office because of his color. I think he has the charisma of John Kennedy, the intelligence of Warren Buffett, and the courage of Norman Schwarzkopf; oh and he is african american too. My family is white and I have not been more proud of our country since long before Bill Clinton was getting a little from an intern.

Barack Obama understands that this country belongs to the people who inhabit it and has reminded "we, the people" to embrace this great nation and work together to make every dream a reality. Hope is renewed as we embark together on this new American journey.
Connie Swett
Wenatchee, WA

Larry,

Obama brings "Hope" to the average American. Many of us believed if we obtained a good education and work hard that we could achieve the American dream. It appears that the dream has dissipated. The inauguration of Obama will reinstill the American dream.

For the first time in my adult life I feel the same excitement that I used to feel on Christmas Eve as a child. I have watched CNN all day today while The Obama Express rolled in DC. My cheeks hurt from smiling, my heart is filled with hope and I am filled with pride to live in the USA.

If Obama doasn't go after the war criminal in the name of America and justice, all this Hip hop would be like Hollywood party and the biggest sore eye for American in the world for the generation in the future.

I think that our President Elect is what this coutry needs right now. This is "our country" and we have to help and get out of the rut of blame. Blamers are sitting back and not doing anything about what is troubling them.

On the same note, I believe that Bush did all he could at the time he made his choices. A lot happened, and may god Bless him with comfort and Peace.

We as citizens CAN very well make differences, it might take a lot of work and time, but we (including myself) can do more to support our leaders and become more educated in areas that we think should be different.

As I sat this morning watching one of the most historic events of our nation, tears filled my eyes when President-Elect Barack Obama addressed the nation from Philadelphia. My thoughts were that of what a great place this "man of hope" can take us. But then a great sadness filled my heart, the thought that the two most important people in his life, his mother Ann and grandmother Madelyn, were not there to share his success of life, the success that so many others have failed to accomplish. But then, a sense of peace came over me, knowing that Ann and Madelyn had front row seats, with God in the middle, his hands on their shoulder, saying: "Girls, look at the baby boy I gave you that others criticized and judged you for having, he's President of the United States, good job ladies"

Does This Mean Canada Is Not Up For Sale? (That's Canadian Humour)...

this inauguration is the most exciting 1 yet..were actually living the dream that Dr.Martin Luther King Jr. wanted..There is actually change in America after a very long time..As MLK said "I have A Dream"..The dream has finally been fulfilled

The color skin can sometimes seem to blur perspectives of the individual and the class struggles

this inauguration is the most exciting 1 yet..were actually living the dream that Dr.Martin Luther King Jr. wanted..There is actually change in America after a very long time..As MLK said "I have A Dream"..The dream has finally been fulfilled..

When asked what does the inauguration of Barack Obama as the first Black President of the United States means to me one word comes to mind, reciprocity. For too many years the black man in America has been synonymous with all that is dark ugly, illegal, depreciated, and detrimental to modern civilization. Mocked for rap culture, malediction, and broken families, the community has been known as a headless snake with an absent father. Obama puts a head not to a snake but a robust stallion ready to take charge and be realized for its great contribution and remove the ominous veil that has been swathed over black men for over a hundred year. Obama’s inauguration means that now not only “The Dream,” of MLK will come to pass, but the works of abolitionist such as Frederick Douglass have now come full circle. That the plight of Sojourner Truth has come to an end and the end of the rail road truly has made its proverbial last stop at the White House. On January 20, 2009 Obama will lift up the eyes of black men across the nation and make us proud because he now will have shown America, just as Jackie Robinson, that blacks are part of America, not a threat to America. That black men are proud, patriotic, intelligent, professional and prolific members of this great country and we desire to help make it better.

~Je Griff~

I am a 74 year old who went to high school in a small town. A person would have to drive 50 miles to milwaukee before you would see a person of color. During my junior year a family living in the country, for reason unknown to me took in a colored boy and enrolled him in our school. He was a junior the same as I. The big question was can he play basketball Hu? Can he play basket ball ? We didn't care what color his skin was. Kids judge a person by what they do and can do. Every one has their own opinion as to how and why Barak Obama became president of the united states. My opinion is because of competitive sports in this great country of ours.

Roland Martin is truly and idiot. "Assasin" is the best work he can use to describe Obama? I can't count how many times he has put his foot in his mouth. I really wish CNN would drop this fool.

Larry,

For me it feels almost like a parallel to many years ago. The excitement that was felt when John F. Kennedy was elected and the promises of change got our country moving at that time . I think Mr. Obama is speaking to us in the same kind of excitement and motivation John F. Kennedy did by saying that we as Americans, by working together, can make good changes in our future and all things are possible.

I am truly proud of Obama's accomplishments. This is a truly special moment for the Black community; we have survived so much turmoil in the past, and we will continue to survive no matter what the the future holds. Obama reassures us that our praying isn't in vain.

Chanta
Huntsville, AL

This Inauguration is historic for a number of reasons. Obama is not only making history for the United States, he has set the standard to challenge everyone to work together in order for America to continue progress.

The inaguration to me is history in the making. I am very excited even though I can't vote because I am only 10 years old. It is wonderful to see Martin luther kings dream finally come true and get a great step higher.

As a proud American this is a great day for a country that forced my father to ride on the very back of the train after he served in world war II. I'm sure it is difficult for someone who was never forced to the back door of restaurants to purchase food for their family, stand up on the back of the bus when seats were available on the front, to drink "colored" water and always be a target of racial epithets and disrespect, to really understand why my heart is bursting with joy. God bless the president elect, those who don't understand why so many people are ecstatic and may God bless America.

Hi there, Larry,
I will be going to Washington from Montreal, Canada along with several other busloads of Canadian Obama supporters and I am very, very excited to go. This is very important to Canadians as well. The dream of Dr. King Jr. should be the dream of all of us. And you, Americans have shown that ‘a man can be chosen on the content of his character other than the colour of his skin’.
God Bless America, and God Bless us all!!

Another phenomenom which has not yet been touched on is the response of the Canadian people (I am one born in Toronto and a resident of that City all my life). It is positively overwhelming. Busloads are leaving for the inauguration. School children are composing songs, poems and letters to President Obama. We are all in love with the guy and know that what he can do for the USA will hav e a similar affect on our country, its closest neighbour. We wish him well, we pray for his safety and I can assure you that the entire population of this country will be glued to the set all day Tuesday. Regards, Dorothy

I see average citizens being more engaged in the political process than ever. An entire new generation of politicians are in the making and I am confident that the United States and the world will become a better and more just place for everyone. How refreshing to have an articulate, intelligent leader again! He is a true inspiration to all those who will follow his example.

As a black Caribbean man, I am totally excited to see we have come from being slaves to a president. Congratulations to Barack Obama.

From Barbados
We love you!

Dear Larry: This is a time in our nation that comes around just once in a generation or once in a lifetime. I am so proud to be alive during this time in history to be able to witness this. I have read many books on Lincoln and he has always been one of my favorite presidents. But, now I have a new favorite. The theme of this is Lincoln and that really gave me pause to wonder, because Lincoln freed the slaves and Obama has made the dream of Martin Luther King come true.

I'm in Dubuque, Iowa, a state where Spike Lee is quoted as saying "maybe three African Americans happen to live" way back on a very very cold night, I joined many other Iowans in the Barack Obama caucus group to give him a very very "warm shoulder". On that evening I was asked to give a little speech as an Obama delegate candidate and in the speech I proclaimed "Barack Obama will be our next president". Remember, this was during the "Iowa first in the nation caucus". Well, it warms my heart to see President-Elect Obama during a very, very cold night in D. C. being given a "warm shoulder" by the entire nation. May that spirit live on!

LARRY KING. please this Gose to JEFF JOHNSON, you got the SPOT on with your point aboutt what this inauguration means to you and i wan to say i am Proud to be BLACK as you are!

Regiina. Abuja, Nigeria.

High intelligence has finally become in style... I certainly hope that all students take notice.

I think of the biblical, "The last shall be first" - I see this as no less than a step toward the Millennium.

The color of skin can sometimes seem to blurr perspectives of the individual and the class struggles

I am thrilled to be celebrating the Inauguration of President Elect Obama with my 31 4th graders, wearing red, white, and blue and toasting our new first family with sparkling water. They are proud to be the visionaries of change that Mr. Obama has inspired and have lined up service projects that will go on well past Inauguration Day. It doesn't get much better than that!!!

Hi my name is Margaret Elliott, I live in Mayo, Maryland. Wih all due respect to the gentleman who says he voted for Barack and is not cool with the media coverage. I am usually the one who is not excited about the media's way of over doing it or wearing things out. I on the other hand feel this is not only a historic event, the hope the election of this man is what our country TRULY needs. Iconsider myself a sceptic and I see the glass half full now. Thanks for your time!

I WOULD LIKE TO HEAR WHAT IT MEAN TO LARRY KING.

This inauguration means that our dreams can become reality.

While my dream to retire in less than six months after almost 40 years of employment disappeared with the financial disaster at the end of 2008, along with my dreams to be a volunteer in assisted living institutions in 2009, this inauguration is not just of a new President, but the inauguration of hope for a people. I am encouraged and I believe that change has come to our nation.

DID you get my post I posted on here a short while ago?

Adrian Fenty and Barack Obama may have a similarity both are bi-racial, and that is all. The two are politically, intellectually and socially polar opposites. Obama is friendly and embraces the importance of organized labor and Adrian Fenty does not. He treats organized labor/city workers in the District of Columbia with no regard and no respect...... Obama will learn in due time to disassociate himself from FENTY,

This is a great time for our country. After the hype, we all have to reme mber that Obama is our promise to fulfill. We have to be ready to support Mr. Obama in bringing our causes to congress when necessary.
We have to remember to stay involved on all levels. We have to remember to be patient and continue to maintain the faith that brought us to this moment.

Remember!!! Obama cannot do it alone. But he is and will be our great leader.

Congratulations from Mexico. We all (in the world) have great expectations on Barack Obama, he is making history and I am glad to witness this great day. USA will be a great Country again.
Viva Obama!!!

I have noticed many of the reporters as well as Michelle and Mrs. Biden are wearing shades of purple. My thinking is the message of one party one nation one party is represented in the color blue the other is red. If you combine red and blue you get purple. Is this the meaning of the purple color I am seeing so much of today?

I am a Canadian. I am deeply moved by Obama for so many reasons. When I was a young child, my parents drove to Florida and I vividly recall stopping somewhere en route to rest and walking into a park where the water fountains had signs above them. My father pointed to a sign and told me it said that only White people could drink from it. I saw a lot of Black people drinking from another fountain further away. I remember thinking that this was very strange. My parents told me how wrong it was and I watched my dad go up to the other fountain and drink from it. Some White people screamed at him and I was scared. But he just went back to our car and we kept going. How far America has come since then! I am so impressed that America has evolved to the point that someone like Obama can rise to a position of leadership. I congratulate your country, our good neighbour! I feel privileged to be watching and celebrating with you.

If today we as a people could ask Dr. King the question, "Am I Your Dream or Your Nightmare". Yesterday the answer would have been Nightmare. Today we can say Dream! Not just he dream of Dr. King, but of all those who have suffered and died for our obtained liberties. The country has voted with their heart. This day is the manifestation of our proclamation of Democracy. This move is as spiritual as the parting of the red sea.

Larry needs to remove that Martin commentator who just identified Obama as an assasin. Just absolutely bad timing.

Wes G.
Mansfield, TX.

This inauguration means that America practiced its democracy by having a vote. We voted to elect an American into office to serve us,
Hopefully one that makes some changes !

but within that we voted for an AMERICAN.... not africanamerican.. not german american... not Italian american. In all truth I'm sure most
african americans have been in AMERICA longer than my grandparents and many other imigrants. that consider themselves American ! not what ever country they originated from !

You cant stop the racial., if your still promoting it.

I voted for an AMERICAN to serve his Country !

It means a lot to me. You will not understand if you are not African American, and I don't expect people to understand. Words cannot express it. I was watching CNN when W. Blitzer announced it that Tuesday night. When Barack won, I cried, laughed, and hollered at the same time. I have been watching CNN all day and I heard the introduction today that CNN played when the projection popped up. Everytime I hear that introduction, I get excited all over again. It's sort of crazy, but it is very exciting at the same time. I AM SO HAPPY. I can watch this over and over again.

I work at a student program at Dulles Airport, I have for one never seen such an amount of people in my life, but what I thought was so shocking was you could feel the electricity of excitement in the air. It was amazing

What this inauguration mean to me? It means that all the slaves, former slaves, all of our grandparents, the civil right workers can FINALLY REST IN PEACE. When I think of all of the suffering and pain they endured but kept faith and determination and the will to struggle and sacrafice to over come their conditions so that their children can one day achieve freedom. Something they were deprived of. This inauguration belongs to them as well, it signifies their prayers have been answered.

Art Powell

As the granddaughter of a Southern share cropper it feels like I am now a complete citizen of this country. My desire to participate in the decisions of my community, my country and lend my talents, voice and activation in daily experiences has become a reality. My only regret is that I can not be in the atmospheric aura of the inauguartion location.

First and foremost, it means a message to the nation of inclusiveness. A message that the "White House" is not just a symbol that represents the interest of white people. One of the best analogies that I have heard thusfar is that little Black kids will see each other differently and little White kids will look at little Black kids differently. This inauguration does more than anything I know to promote the idea that there are no limitations to what one can accomplish in this country regardless of race.

Larry, it is my personal opinion that the reason Obama was elected President is that Black people in our country voted him in. If it wasn't for his skin color, he wouldn't be our next president. Again, that is my personal opinion. It is not my intention to say the man is not intelligent and resourceful. I think he is, but so were the other candidates running for president several months ago. I wanted Hillary Clinton to become President.

The inauguration means to me the resurgence of optimism and the expectation that I can once again be proud to be a United States citizen.
I feel that evil, deceit, greed and a total disregard for the American people is leaving the White House and hopefully, goodness, integrity and a commitment to the good of ALL the people is entering.

I came from a verry pregeduce family, and even my husband. I am so Proud that i got to live long enough for me to see such an event. I am so happy for them little girl's that get to live a real Cinderella Life.
This change has been needed for over hundreds of years,and it is a wonderfull event.
I am sorry that people keep saying African American,,

This inauguration is a chance for us to show acceptance not tolerance.
The days of tolerance are over not just for African Americans, but for all people. I hope its also going to make us a freer nation in many other aspects of how our society restricts many freedoms.

THIS IS THE SINGULAR MOST EXCITING INAUGURATION IN MY LIFETIME SINCE JOHN .F KENNEDY. THERE IS A CLEAR PURPOSE AND PATH TO OUR FUTURE THAT IS INSPIRING AND UPLIFTING AS WELL AS A CLEAR PROMISE FOR OUR FUTURE THAT HAS BEEN LACKING FOR SO VERY LONG.

I AM A 74 YEAR OLD WHITE DESCENDANT OF THE REVOLUTION THAT FORMED OUR GREAT NATION. AT LAST, I SEE A HOPEFUL FUTURE, AND I AM SO GLAD IT HAS HAPPENED IN MY LIFETIME.

SINCERELY,

SLY

Barack is only moving by the spirit of god . I'ts time for a change I love this world we live in ,but let us be happy for a change

I always believed that a government should serve the people that it governs, and this has come in the ideals of President -Elect Barack Obama. President Lincoln and Martin Luther King Jr. saw the ideals and their dreams were a passion and have been made a reality. Truely, this is the beginning of a UNITED STATES OF AMERICA where people are beginning to unite.

For my grandchildren and others this is great and wonderful. However
if the cost of all this is between 125/175 Million ., We have greater needs within all states . Why couldn't Obama show his immediate
urgency to make this much more simple and all the historical events
will fall in line in the coming weeks and months in his decision making plans.

I am rare speechless, but for this topic I am too excited to speak. Before 1993 I wrote a poem about a black man ruling the nation. So yes, I thought that it would have happened in my lifetime...

The one big thing that Obama could...and should have done for our country, he did not. Mr. Obama said that he called himself an "African" American because that is how the people in America viewed him. I believe that, but Mr. Obama could have made that bridge between races smaller. He could have said, "Do not view me by my race. I am of half African decent, and half European decent. View me as an American man that has the honor to be your next President of America, who has experienced BOTH sides of my racial heritages."

Larry, where are the American People who voted for Pres. Bush 8 yrs. ago and again 4 yrs. ago? It worries me to think that the 50% that voted for Obama in 2008 might sit back and wait for Obama to make a mistake, and then overlook any good that he might have done too. That would be sad. I hope AMERICANS will publicly thank the Bush's for all their years of service, and then focus on encouraging Pres. Obama to be THE BEST THAT HE CAN BE, in his years of service.

What, who, when oh yeh!! Right after Obama spoke as I had tears in my eyes then heard the words “OK Let’s Get out of Here” CNN broadcast…who said it? Sounded like Obama…..my tears came again but with a realization that his persona is a facade. am I wrong?

I cannot wait for tuesday to get here. I cannot make it to washington for Obama inauguration But I will be in front of the T.V until it is over . I will be crying with all the rest . I am 72 and I never dream we would have a black presdent . O yes I will have my pop corn.

As an African American and a US Citizen, it is becoming somewhat insulting as we watch a continual parade of blacks coming on your show to discuss what it means for Barack Obama to be president....as if anyone is going to say anything different than the other 10 before!
What would really be impressive is if you actually reflected America and the people who voted for Obama by managing to find some white people and white celebs and politicians to interview....now that would be journalism.....think about it!

If today we as a people could ask Dr. King the question, "Am I Your Dream or Your Nightmare". Yesterday the answer would have been Nightmare. Today we can say Dream! Not just the dream of Dr. King, but of all those who have suffered and died for our obtained liberties. The country has voted with their heart. This day is the manifestation of our proclamation of Democracy. This move is as spiritual as the parting of the red sea. To blacks this is the forty acres and a mule.

I will be watching the Inauguration with my 31 4th graders wearing red, white, and blue and toasting the new first family with sparkling cider. My students have been so inspired by President Elect Obama that they have become visionaries of change by making a list of service projects that will continue well past Inauguration Day. I am so proud!

I am a 51 year old white man born in 1957 and remember as a kid how the local theater would only allow blacks in, if they sit in the back upper level of the theater. The election of Obama makes me so proud to be an American. I feel as though our country, after 232 years, has matured enough to finally live up to the promise of our founding fathers.

Maybe it is divine intervention that MLK Jr. and our new first lady share the same birthday.

I am a 66 year old African American female from Texas. "PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN" has taken on a new meaning for me. I see Barack Obama as a man who is Black and White and when he says "Yes we can," he really means WE! He is bringing a true feeling of hope. I believe he will also energize Americans to roll up their sleeves, take responsibility and make America great again!

It means to me that God chose the type of man who
would be able to touch not only our hearts but also
our souls in order for him to be able to lead us to the
promised land.

I voted for Obama and still have great expectation. But as he stays silent while 1100 Palestinian and UN civilians including many children being slaughtered I become less optimistic about his promise of "change" and especially about improving our international reputation.

Why label President Obama – African/American?
– and then we complain of discrimination? Did he not say there is no red or blue America? What about calling him the first brown president -since half white and half black makes brown! I voted for a president who is American not for his color!

I have always LOVED my country that my father fought so hard for in 2 wars, I have always known that this is the best place on the face of the earth. I sit back and think about the journey that this country has made... and I warmly smile, and say " I am proud to be an American more then I ever have before" History has been made, and I get to be a part of it, and share this extrordinary moment with my 2 African American boys. They have witnessed with hope in their eyes that ANYTHING is possible, and they can now dream bigger then ever before. It's a brand new day! A new Declaration of Independance. A chance to forge ahead leaving yesterday behind us. To live the dream that Martin L King Jr died for. It finally came true. I am, we are... truly blessed.

This is a wonderful day in history and in the world, I think President Obama has an Anointed Spirit of calmness, like your parents saying ok, we're going to work together and everything is going to be fine, as long as we stick together like family. I feel like whatever he wants be to do to help turn things around I am willing to do. I cry when he was elected and I will cry again on January 20. I had a flashback on what Dr Martin King said, 'we as a people will get to the Promise Land' and we will see that Promise on Tuesday, January 20, 2009. What a Wonderful Day. I pray for Mr President Obama and the First Lady Michelle Obama that GOD will protect them from all harm and danger.

I am so proud, and I Love them BOTH.

I was Rosa Parks National Security Director and Personal Bodyguard from 1994 until 2005. Mrs. Parks had grabbed my hand and told me that the election of a "black President would happen in your lifetime but not in mine." I could not see anyone at the time other than Colin Powell who could aspire to this unobtainable office. It was reported to me that Mrs. Parks said Senator Barack Obama would one day be President when she first heard him speak in 2004. I saw him speak at her funeral and shook my head, YES, she was correct. When I heard him announce his candidacy I knew she must have been prophetic. It was happening. I never imagined this mountain-top would ever be climbed by an African American. I was the police bodyguard to Mayor Maynard Jackson, the first African American Mayor of Atlanta, I met and protected the King Family as well and I met many of the civil rights heroes. This inauguration is a fulfillment of a dream, a climb to the mountaintop, now we can all see the promise land, we still have a ways to go, but we all will get to the promise land, the swearing in means we are now walking together to that promised land in a great nation called, The United States of America.

This inauguration is an exciting time in our world history. It means so much to me to witness such a beautiful moment in time. President -Elect Obama is not Jesus, he is not God, but I am in awe of such a great person who has been raised for such times as these we are living in right now. I believe he has been purposed for this time in history to make a difference in not only the United States but around the world. He is an instrument of change, he can not do it alone, but with all of our help as citizens we can be world changers, yes we can and yes I will. President-Elect Obama is so inspirational, he inspires me to be the best that I can be in whatever I do. This inauguration is awesome to me.

It means having a President that sincerely cares about America. It also means Martin Luther King Jr. dream is finally being fulfilled.

YES WE CAN

PRESIDENT ELECT BARAK OBAMA WAS UNKNOWN TO MOST
But PEOPLE STILL CAME OUT IN LARGE NUMBERS TO VOTE

HE IS A MAN WITH GREAT HONOR AND INTEGRITY
A MAN WHO PROMISE TO BRING HOPE AND UNITY

HE HAS PROMISED TO FIX OUR HURTING ECONOMY
FOR ALL AMERICANS TO FINALLY BE DEBT FREE

OBAMA BELIEVES IN ORDER FOR AMERICA TO FULLY RECOVER
IT CAN ONLY BE ACCOMPLISHED IF WE HELP EACH OTHER

JUST LIKE OUR FORMER GREAT LEADER MARTIN LUTHER KING
BARAK ALSO HAS A VISION THAT WILL PAVE THE WAY FOR US TO BE FREE

HIS ELECTION HAS BROKEN ALL CHAINS AND COLOR BARRIERS
WHICH ULTIMATELY PROMISES ALL AMERICANS A BRIGHTER FUTURE

OUR NATION HAS NOW BEEN GIVEN A OPPORTUNITY TO HEAL
THIS MAN OBAMA IS NOT AN ILLUSION; HE IS DEFINITELY FOR REAL

YES WE CAN; YES WE DID!
BARAK OBAMA IS DEFINITELY IN
WRITTEN BY: SHIRLEY FISHER 1/1/2009

how bout the fact that obama's not african american but afrocaucasian american?????

Obama being elected is the single most important event next to the emancipation proclamation. As an interracial male and Pastor I see Martin Luther King's dream finally coming alive. Now maybe Sundays will no longer be the most segregated day in America but instead be One Nation under God indivisible with liberty love and healthcare for all.

Rev. Mark-Anthony Rassmann

As a black American I feel the history of this inauguration, this election. I did not feel it until 11pm, Eastern Standard Time, on the evening of November 4th win the networks announced he was the 44th President Elect.

What the election of Barack Obama means to me is that America is becoming the America described in its governing documents and written beliefs. That all men are created equal and they have certain inalienable rights. That people do look at the content of your character not the color of your skin or ethinicity. This election also means the possibility of government returning to the people, for the people, by the people the way in which it was intended.

This inauguration means a dream come true and a hopeful future for our younger generation. I am so happy that my 85 year old mother is here to witness this most historic day...living in Mississippi she never thought she would see an African American President. I am so excited that she is here to witness this moment in history.

When I was a child, my grandmother, who was a minister, use to preach from the pulpit and say, "America will not prosper until it truly live up to Lincoln's quote that "All men are created equal", and allow a black man or woman to become President. Politics was quite important in our family and as an adult, I stressed the importance of this with my children, and one of my adult offspings has Down Syndrome. My son has voted since he was eighteen years old, and was so excieted to cast his vote for Obama. My body shivers to know that I can share this great event watching with my offsprings. I feel such pride, and an urgency of peace within that his presidency will transcend to other nations, that once again, we are that great nation that can be respected.

The inauguration means to me looking at the past of former slaves into the future of people with hope in their belief of Dr. Martin Luther KIng's dream of equality and the pursuit of happiness for all Americans. History is being made and President elect Barack Obama is the appointed leader who will lead Americans to the best of his ability. I am thankful to be apart of this dream and the hope that surrounds it.

I live in a very tiny island in the Caribbean called Barbados. I am perhaps more excited about this than any American. I am just real proud of this man, and as a black person I consider this to be "öur moment in time". He was sent by God.

it is now clear that America offers oppourtunity for all, is it up to each one of us to either choose to carry guns or carry books

I believe that the Inauguration of Barack Obama will be one of the moments in time that when all the great things that happen from now on can be traced back to tuesday 1/20/2009. That will be the day that the country changed. There will be children that will be influenced by all this and grow up to be inspired to be our future leaders.
Barack Obama will be a hero to many young people , like Lincoln was to him.

A most inappropriate comment from the CNN political commentator about comparing Obama to an "assassin." Talk about trying to be so relevant or different as to come off as frightening. I she crazy saying that on the air?!

Many of us in the State of Washington worked on Barack's website
via the blogs to speak with all Americans on who Barack was...
Now, we are on the blogs happily watching and writing about
Barack who has become President of the United States...

WE ARE THRILLED, we have happy tears in our eyes....
What it means to me, America now has the leadership
to steer us towards our own destiny of what America
truly was created for:
A country A home of the Free and the Brave
A county where everyone of all walks of life
can create their lives with freedom and inspiration

Barack Obama has given me HOPE INSPIRATION
DESIRE TO HELP our Country get back on her feet

I also will roll up my sleeves to help in our country's
recovery from all the set backs we have had in our
economy and prosperity

America is Back !

I highly admire Obama: he's honest, a thinker, a reader, wise, respectful, and seems very capable–I trust that he will make one of the best presidents that we've had. Not only is this a change that will be great for the US, but it will help turn around this world's desperation and depression . . . I feel as if we're throwing off an incompetent and moronic dictator.

When in England I found myself explaining how "We the people" started as, legally, "We the 35-year-old white males who own land" and how people have used the brilliant tools of democracy, which don't help us sitting on a shelf, to change that to include women, and African Americans. I love Obama for bringing out the best in America, period.

Larry King

Thank you for the opportunity to be heard on a national level.

I feel that people all over the world are passionate about the proposed changes that will be implemented on the president elect, Barrack Obama.
I as a African American women have witnessed much political and heart change over the last six decades. It's a paradign shift that we as a people are welcoming in.

We as a people are proud.

what obama being elected president personally means to me is that you, me, anyone can succeed. no matter what challenges you face in ife, and the 'deck of cards' you were dealt. also, hopefully americans can now travel abroad without fear of being hated and having 'tomatoes thrown at them.'

More than I can express. I give my shoulders to Barack Obama to stand on. The shoulders of a middle-aged Asian American who , although suffering no prejudice of my own, saw, heard, experienced so many expressions of prejudice and hatred toward black Americans . I was a child of the South when the civil rights act passed, and I knew that those rights were enacted thru blood and tears. My unexpressed guilt for not creating change myself is gone now. But I've done my part and I breathe a free man, freed from the weight of living in apparent unending prejudice. It is my hope that In time, a new generation will stand on Barack Obama's shoulders as we lend him ours. Good health, good luck to Obama, his family and staff. TOM T.
PS Thank you for this opportunity.

It makes me proud to have such a great family representing Americans all around the world. It's been a long time since I've felt this pride and it's a good feeling. I have a lot of hope for our country and I'm still surprised and happy that a black man is finally going to be our leader. I'm an old lady and remember the fight for civil rights in the '60s quite well. It took a long time, but America is now ready to shine.

History has repeated itself and by that America will
have a new begining with a new era to a new melinium
with a new president ....

I couldn't be happier, I haven't been this excited about the future of the United States of America since the election of JFK.

I appreciate Mr. Obama's calm demeanor, it makes me feel secure that he has a plan and he's going to accomplish it. Plus, it's the first time in my 40 years of voting that I really felt like I was a part of the process, and that my voice will really be heard in Washington.

We are all Americans, not Red or Blue, and it behooves us all to chip in to make our country healthy again.

I was at the event in Wilmington today. It was surreal to see on this unusually cold day, Joe Biden who so many here have met personnally and call simply "Joe" leave to become our next Vice-President, and Barack Obama our president elect speak. They inspired and energized those who were there, and lifted the gloom of these difficult times. As Joe Biden said, as cold as it has been (13 degrees today) spring will certainly come.

Finally we have a President who gets it! He understands how the majority of Americans feel, and maybe we can finally work together republicans and democrats for the greater good of this "Great" country!

The inauguration of the 44th President of the United States, Barack Obama, is surely to go down in history, especially since it is the first time that the United States will have as its president someone with an African-American heritage.

We are a gay couple and we surely feel that this Inauguration and this Presidency will mark the downfall of bigotry and blatant discrimination towards gays and lesbians. It's like we, gays and lesbians, are finally seeing the "light at the end of the tunnel."

Thank You.

To me, this inauguation is the fulfillment of our nation's mission and destiny. Our Founding Fathers pushed the slavery issue into the future, where Abraham Lincoln dealt with it. Barack Obama brings together the genes and the dreams of our American Founding Fathers and of our African slaves. I am so deeply moved and inspired!

Mr. Obama said that he called himself an "African" American because that is how the people in America viewed him. I believe that, but Mr. Obama could have made that bridge between races smaller. He could have said, "Do not view me by my race. I am of half African decent, and half European decent. View me as an American man that has the honor to be your next President of America, who has experienced BOTH sides of my racial heritages."

Larry, I am more optimistic about the future of this country more than ever, I think there is so much HOPE among the people that the positive mindset will push us forward!!!

It means to me what my father really said to me is the truth: If you work hard you can achieve your dreams. I really proud to be black and this is a significant moment in Black history. Historically we are a people of strength and endurance, the struggle of those who came before will be realized on the day Obama takes the oath to become the 44th president of the United States.

what it means to me is that after 2 tours in iraq my husband may not have to go back and it might mean better help for the troops suffereing with ptsd and it might mean that miltary families might get better benifits and support including the army national guard and it means hope and our nation going in a better positve direction

Obama is going to be great president for our country.( 9-yr. old grandaughter)

All I can say is how PROUD I am not ONLY of Obama, but also of our country as a whole. I'm excited to finally read a new scenario in my history book! YES WE CAN!

more than just a moment in black history, Barak Obama means a change of idealogy in the white house. A change that reaches across america's borders to every other country that is affected by american politics. A change in the way the rest of the world sees america, as well as the way we see ourselves. Barak Obama does not represent the mentality of the traditional american politician. He dose not represent traditional american capitalistic motivation. he represents a set of principles that are set forth by the prophets and apostles of old. he is a person who is motivated by love and concern for the people of this world, as well as that which is good and fair and right. i truely believe that he follows in the footsteps of martin. in order to effect a significant change in the world, we must change the philosophy by which it operates. Barak Obama represents that change.

As an African American, the inauguration means a time of inspiration and aspiration. Forty years since I graduated from high school, I experience a dream come true that was once thought of as an impossibility. It's an opportunity for Americans to catch the wave of unity that can bring us together as one nation under God because we will not return to this time in life again. It will go down in history as the "Re-birth of America".

Larry,

His swearing in means alot to me and to the world, This is truly a piece of history in the making and I am happy to be alive to see this dream come true. Its like JFK was reborn again and it seems when we are in troubled times something or someone comes to the rescue and that is barack obama he is the hero of our century we are facing economic hard times jobs are shutting down and we are in a recession this is the greastest moment of my life to see a african-american president sworn in on the steps of washington. God bless Obama/Biden this should be the greatest era of my lifetime now that he is president.

All I can say is how PROUD I am not ONLY of Obama, but also of our country as a whole. I'm excited to finally read a new scenario in my history book! This is just amazing...

Spoilsports, stand aside for a moment. We must acknowledge this historic time, to embrace it, to delight in it, in order to make the most of it. The enthusiasm we are experiencing is genuine and is cutting through the tired Paris Hilton glitz of popular culture. Best wishes, President Obama. Let's all get to work.

For some of us, this is a dream, not yet a reality. So all the hype is because of the years of not believing this would happen in our lifetime, My mother is 83 years old and she too is in awe of the fact that a true change has occurred in America in her lifetime.

Dear Larry King,

The inaguration of President -elect Obama is special to me. If MLK was alive, he would be very happy. I'm glad that America has her first African-American President. I heard that at one gas station that people were beting a dollar of when Obama would be assinated. VERY WRONG!!!!!!! I know that secret service is going to be heavily protecting Obama at the Inaguration. I know that 40 years ago, this would NEVER BE POSSIBLE!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am the great-great granddaughter of a slave. I will pray and watch this miracle in my lifetime. However, I am more interested in what the chief butlers and house servants have to say. Larry could you interview the longest serving White House servant? Where are they? For me this is more of a story of the past than the future. This is more about a dream deferred; that has now been realized.

At a time when unity is a far cry.
In a world where hope calls for emergency.
Barack's inauguration is one of unity and hope, for the American people and friends of America.

I think this inauguration marks a transformational moment when the vision of the founding fathers of this nation has been exceeded by the power of the democratic ideas they assembled. I believe many of our founders would applaud with amazement and delight the way in which our democratic system is tapping the talents and capturing the hearts of this nation and the world, and they would have to admit that they might have hoped, but never would have anticipated such remarkable outcomes from the ingredients they assembled in 1776.

From a Little island in the Caribbean called JAMAICA, i just want to say thanks to CNN for making it possible for me to get the most coverage of the OBAMA effect and that all jamaican are Happy for the president elect and i will be home on the 20th tune to CNN for the the ceremony. I feel so great to know that a african american has reached that far something we have never imagine this goes to show that we can be what we want, so lets all shout in tune and say YES WE CAN YES WE CAN YES WE CAN. Thanks to CNN thanks CNN thanks CNN for ur coverage

Seeing Barack become President for me means that we each have a chance to REALLY take part in our country now. We can each learn how to become better stewards of the environment, of each other, of the way we live. Barack believes in personal stewardship. We can believe along with him and change our country and make a better world. We have a great opportunity to become responsible citizens under a great President. Let's help him. He cannot do this without us!

l see the grace of God upon Obama.i only ask Americans to please take this opporturnity to bring our country back with love and hope,without finger pointing.God will see us thru.

Our's happens to be a caucasian family, and I wish my father was alive to see this day. My father spoke out, in spite of his family and culture in the "50s and 60's regarding the prejudice in this country. He drilled into me that all people are equal. He was career Air Force and knew that it matters not the color of a man's skin when you are flying together, fighting together, working and living together. Mr. Obama is an intellegent, thoughtful individual that I am convinced will represent us superbly in our global community.

For myself and my family it shows my daughter who has a white mother and African American father that anything is possible. She sees at 10 years of age that history has been made and this election has made her take notice of the political process and the swearing in of the 44th president . She goes to school in a community in Oklahoma where in her elementary school there is less than 1% minority. This is a republican state but we are family that are democrats and for the 1st time in his life my husband went to the polls and voted at 38 years old.

This is what the dream was all about.

Larry,

His swearing in means alot to me and to the world, This is truly a piece of history in the making and I am happy to be alive to see this dream come true. It's like John F. Kennedy was reborn again and it seems when we are in troubled times something or someone comes to the rescue and that is barack obama he is the hero of our century we are facing economic hard times jobs are shutting down and we are in a recession this is the greastest moment of my life to see a african-american president sworn in on the steps of washington. God bless Obama this should be the greatest era of my lifetime now that he is president.

While Obama's sense of involvement is infectious, there remains many who feel somewhat left out from this inauguration. Many of us volunteered at a local level yet opted to stay home after being soundly thrashed by Washington area hotels. There is a bitter irony in Obama being so inclusive while hotels from DC to Maryland gouge visitors out of 5 night minimum stays at sky high prices for $100 rooms in an obviously horrible economy. It seems no matter the campaign, the fat cats always win.

It means all of us must work with him to bring the change we all need. It gives us pride, and motivate me to do my part.

I am currently tuning in to your show and an individual writing in has made the same remarks I've heard repeatedly. A woman who sent an email proposed, in her own words, that this is indeed a new day for race relations with the inaugeration of Barack Obama and the dream of MLK can possibly be realized. Honestly, I am tired of hearing such comments. Although this will indeed be a great time in history, his inaugeration will not cure US racial ills. I'm an African-American student who recently moved into a new predominantly White Sacramento neighborhood. My male and female neighbors often put their backs to the car, frightened when I walk past. They do this to my mother too and she is 50 years old. Very liberal looking young people, they too probably voted for Obama. Also, let's not forget that Oakland California is still simmering from the police shooting of a handcuffed African-American man. It is superficial to think that this this event, although an extremely progressive step ahead for African- Americans, is going to solve problems at the level of the layperson and race relations. We, of all ethnicities, are looking to him instead of inside ourselves. A priori assumptions about his impact on race relations in America are not realistic.
Barack Obama taking office means alot to me personally, but it does not mean "racial unity" or anything near it.

For me, the inauguration is historic and joyful. I have 15 brothers and sisters, all of whoom has at least a masters degree. We are doctors, lawyers, educators, and social workers. I am 64 years old but I never in my lifetime believed that we would ever witness this kind of an american mandate.

In short, this inauguration to me means a shift in perception, a progression towards the very foundation this great Country was predicated on, which is the fair and equal opportunity to pursue the American Dream. In essence, this inauguration ceremony of Barack Obama is the fruition of what Martin Luther King's Speech was several years ago, except redefined.

After eight years of being led by a President who apparently was in denial on every issue important to us it is with great anticipation that we can look forward to a better future. President Elect Obama and Vice President Biden offer to us a future in which we can project our great possibilities, as Americans, once again. Not since JFK have I felt hopeful about our future. Reagan offered us an agenda whch split us apart as a people; Bush senior was a little better; Clinton while I supported since I am a lifelong Democrat brought us immoral living and disension. Thankk God for Obama/Biden

This Inauguration means to me, that a melting pot of people are thinking clearly for themselves, and the rest of America, please give President elect Obama, a fair chance.
GOD BLESS AMERICA
DEBRA,
.

The inauguration of Barak Obama means to me that FINALLY our country's leadership will begin to focus on what matters most. Our similarities rather than our differences, important issues like hunger, poverty and joblessness will take center stage over the petty goals of politicians whose only concerns are reelection and corporate greed. Obama is an awsome, level headed individual who makes more sense and seems more trustworthy than anyone who has come to power in my adult lifetime. I am HOPEFUL and look forward to much better times to come.

I am very excited and optimistic as Barack Obama is sworn in as our 44th president. I truly believe that he is the "people's president". I am confident that he will lrepresent all Americans, regardless of race, creed, or party affiliations, and lead the country in the right direction. I have always expressed to my children that they can achieve any dream their hearts desire. Pres. Barack Obama is proof of that.

While I understand the black community's pride in Barack Obama becoming president, there is another point of view. As a white mother I am equally proud of his white mother and his white grand parents who raised this man to be strong, molded, encouraged and supported him in such an extraordinary way to produce the man that will be my president. None of this was done by the black community. This is the story that's not being told. As the grandmother of adopted bi-racial girls, it is much more appropriate to refer to Obama as a bi-racial president, not an African American president. This is why he truly is representative of white and black. It was the white connections that raised him to be what he is today. I really am upset by the media diminishing Obama's white roots. There is a bigger story to report on here, that is far more encompassing than restricting. him to being African American. In fact the black community had little to do with him being who he is today. He happens to have black skin. Honor the white parents and grandparents that were his anchor and loved him well. Phyllis Davis

One thought continues to occur to me- there is a good chance that this event happening now as it has (& with the continued, stepped up & integral participation of its citizens) means The U.S. stands a very good chance of not going the way of Rome (no offense, Rome). I have not felt so optimistic about the state of the country & it's world leadership capability/positioning in quite some time. Good luck and very best wishes, President Elect.

As a federal employee oversees, this inauguration is similar to a graduation commencement. It represents an end to struggles past and hopeful optimism for tomorrow. It also represents an opportunity to improve our image on the world stage. I’m amazed at the number Southeast Asians who have confidence in President-elect Obama and the concept of change he represents.

What does it mean to me..nothing.Lets not kid ourselves there will always be a racial divide in this country...It doesnt matter how many Blacks you Elect to the Presidency.As for all the media who cant get enough of the future President....how will they responds to his mistakes,because they will happen.Will they criticize or blame Bush..
It is well documented throughout history...African-American will screw up eventually when they are doing something in their lives....an example Jesse Jackson...but the list goes on and on...so let Mr R Martin in on that fact

President-Elect Obama means everything...to us in the USA and worldwide. He and his family are bringing dignity, honesty and caring to the White House – all of which have been non-existent for the last 8 years. I am a 66 year old white woman who voted for Mr. Obama because I believe in what he is saying. I am originally from a little town in NH and I was raised to be a loyal, hardworking and Golden Rule type person. It has been really hard to be loyal to Mr. Bush – I disagree with all that he is. He has shattered out beautiful country, made fools of us and especially a fool of himself.

President-Elect Obama and his beautiful wife and children will lift us up. Thank God they will pay attention to our military personnel injured returning from Iraq and get them the proper care they deserve.

I have watched everyhting today – train ride, etc. I will continue to watch every minute until he takes the vow of office and then thank God I lived to see it!!!!

God Bless the Obama's. Respectfully, Pat

Thanks, To me, this means that FOR THE FIRST TIME IN MY
71+ YEARS OF LIVING, I FEEL THAT ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE FOR THE BLACK RACE AND SPECIFICALLY FOR A B L A C K MAN.

I SPEAK FOR MY FATHER WHO HELPED TO LAY RAILROAD CROSS
TIES AND AND MY GRANDFATHER WHO WAS TREATED SO INHUMANLY WHEN HE WORKED FOR THE WHITE MAN AND FOR
MY BROTHER, WHO WENT TO THE WAR AND CAME HOME AND AS HE DEPARTED THE BUS WAS SPAT UPON-ONLY BECAUSE HE
WAS BLACK. MY FATHER-World war I-NAVY; MY UNCLE–Worldwar 2
and MY BROTHER-Korean War –ALL SERVED THIS COUNTRY AND WAS TREATED LIKE DIRT. MOTHER WAS SOLD A SIFTER-HOLED
INNERTUBE WHILE MY FATHER WENT TO DEFEND AMERICA. WHY

I feel more confident that my young son will grow up in a more caring, optimistic and unified country. I feel proud that we were able to overcome the obstacle of race in this election and, hopefully, that we will continue to really address and heal ongoing racial tensions.

I wish every slave or persons who has died for the cause, could come back this one time, and witness what is about to take place in a few days.....It's marvious in our eyes.

I beleive that the election and inaugration of Barack Obama as the first black American president is an inspiration not only for America but to the entire world. African leaders should see in this, a great lesson in democracy and the fact that the focus of a great leader should be the concern of his people and not his personal interest and those of his "cronnies". African leaders should not only celebrate this inauguration by drinking champane with their American friends and say how great a day this is but they should see this as the ultimate lesson id democracy and ask themselves what they can learn from this to improve upon the lot of their people.

I BELEIVE GOD HAS RAISED UP A PROPHET, AS HE DID WITH MOSES AND JOSHA.

Susan Dean,Yes Obama did say let's get out of here but if you saw he meant to get out of there to go and shake the hands of the people.You and I'm sorry to say had taken that the wrong way.

I am so proud and grateful to God for allowing me to be able to join the citizens of this great nation and the rest of the world in this historic event of the inauguration of our 44th President Barack Obama. I will cherished it for the rest of my life and hope to talk to my grandchildren and great grandchildren about! Congratulations, Mr. President!

First I think of my parents (Black Americans). My father who grew up in the South during a time when blacks were being hung and beaten and generally being kept from even thinking the American dream. My mother who worked her own way through College at Ohio State in 1930. My Brother and Sister who've past away to early. I wish they were here. I think of Roland Hayes, Malcom X, Stokely Carmichaela, and all the others who stood up, and during the Civil Rights movement, and Wish they could know what's happened. I am now so proud of my country. I'm Navy retired, and loved my time in the Navy, but have never felt so proud as now. The chance to change is more the opportunity for us all to change and all of us to feel that our country is what we've always though, but never was. Thank you.

Words,can not express,how I feel........Born in the deep South,in the late 40's In a segregated hospital,and segregated schools,to live and be able to witness,"A Change",for Everryone.and to make it better for my children(Hosea,and Jamillah) and my granson(Javon) is "Over Welming". I am so thankful,to be able to witness History,by having Barack Obama,to be our leader,He not only mean to me that he is Black,But that he is very smart,inteligent,and calm! God Bless The United States of America! I only wish my grandparents,and parents,were alive to witness something that they thought was impossible!

I am Justin Kiracofe. I am 15 years old and my parnets asked me to write an essay on what Obama's Inauguration means to me.
"Renewing America's Promise" was chosen as this year's Inaugural theme. This inherently suggests that our Promise was lost or had expired. I disagree. America's Promise has always been there; it has been abrogated by Fear, Greed, Corruption, Apathy, and as a result, a nationwide loss of Hope among average citizens.
Obama's election has brought great Hope to America and with it an awakening among its electorate of the Purpose and Opportunity born of the seeds of Hope that made this country the envy of many around the world and that brought them here with visions of attaining their greatest potential.
In electing Barack and Joe as President and Vice President, we have demonstrated JFK's edict, "We hold the view that the people make the best judgment in the long run" and Walt Whitman's proclamation, "The genius of the United States is not best or most in its executives or legislatures, nor in its ambassadors or authors or colleges, or churches, or parlors, nor even in its newspapers or inventors, but always most in the common people."
This Inauguration represents the reawakening of this country to its greatest resource; the power of its People, the strength of its Ideals, the Promise of its Hope to bring about Opportunity for all to reach their highest Potential and Purpose. My parents and grandparents are always talking about how great this country "USED to be." This Inauguration represents the beginning of our return to that greatness domestically and on the world stage as well as a renewal of our collective pride.

Larry, I am 50 years old, white and a woman. I have two boys,15 and 18. My oldest is in college at the University of Oregon. Being able to sit down with my two sons and watch a black man, and his family, move into the White House is the dream that Martin Luther King should have been here to realize. It is monumental. I am making sure that my two sons realize what is taking place in history, in thier lifetime, and trying to explain to them what I have experienced growing up in the 60's and how I feel about racism. I want them to realize the sacrifice of so many, that not only died for this day, but for the millions of people, black and white, who have spent their lives dedicated to the realization of Dr. Martin Luther King and the other civil right leaders in this country and the world. I am proud to be an American today. I cannot say I have ever felt that. I cannot say that for my lifetime I have ever been SO proud to be an American. I am PROUD to be an American today and I just can't wait for Tuesday! Thank you for all your dedication to getting to the truth., I watch you EVERY night! Sarah Chrischilles

Larry, what is the matter with the main stream news people and you?
I know you probably won't put my comments on air because I am not in the
Obama love fest. I do not need any more history lessens from this
man, I grew up in the sixty's
This man knows we are broke and they keep spending tax payers money.
Does everyone realize that we are paying for this 300 million dollar party. this is not a coronation.this is not a monarchy.
I thought he was a man with change why couldn't he had a plain and
simple inexpensive inauguration Why and how could he spend so
much money on this.
Also does everyone realize that Congress approved a 100,000 dollar makeover for his white house quarters .Why couldn't he go to Kmart
and buy some paint and Kanes to buy furniture like the rest of us .This
man of change.
Everyone made such a big deal of Palins little wardrobe like you!
But this man is spending over 300 million for this and you don't say a word.
What is happening to this country. Wake up you fools
The mainstream press ,and shows like yours are so biased .
When will you all wake up and realize you are going to destroy our lives and this country and start telling the truth about all this .

Barack Obama's historic inauguration means to me (above many other things) hopefully a decline in racism/discrimination in America. I know that it will forever exist but racism is like a cancer. If left untreated, undiagnosed it spreads and destroys. However, if it is reduced, decreased, and controlled then obviously your health improves, your financial situation, your relationships, your opportunities..YOUR LIFE !

I remember shopping at Sak's in 2002 walking down 5th Avenue in a crowd of people. A salvation army santa was soliciting donations and a very obvious "out of towner" rudely replied to him saying "NO why dont you give me some money". A gentleman behind him walking alongside me said "oh be nice thats santa claus" and the out of towner replied.. "NO so what HE'S BLACK" I asked why is it that santa claus could not be black and he hesitated and said " well what color was Jesus?" I got into a very intelligent, but angry debate with the racist... but explained to him how unintelligent it was of him to equate our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ with a fictional character such as santa claus. I told him that Jesus regardless of what he race was loves people of all races, creeds, and colors and if he is stupid enough to make a correlation between the two then he should realize that a santa claus can be black, white, asian, latino, native american... He quickly rushed off to St Patrick's Cathedral with his sister or girlfriend.

I said ALL OF THAT TO SAY... That in 2002 this fool did not want to see a BLACK SANTA CLAUS but now he sees a BLACK PRESIDENT !

At a time when unity has become a far cry. In a world where hope calls for an emergency. Barack's inauguration is an inauguration of unity and hope, for the American people and friends of America.

“A Kings Thanksgiving for Victory”

I was born in the 1950's. I have spent my adult life as a soldier of peace, sometimes confused but always keeping the faith in the front line trenches of the culture war against ignorance, bigotry, and small thinking. I am inspired and feel we have turned a corner in the culture war.

Speaking figuratively, my wife and I have been blessed and were able to send our child to President elect Obama’s inauguration. Her name is Hope and she will be an adult – eighteen – on January 20.

Living for today, hopeful for tomorrow

A new beginning filled with hope and optimism. Finally a chance with someone who cares about & understands the struggles we are all facing. I wish PE Obama and his entire team the best of health, patience, strength, and luck trying to repair the past eight years of disaster. May God bless us all.

Larry,

I eat, sleep and lived this entire election, that how important this election is to me.

The Inauguration of Barack Obama means "A Star Is Born" this is the day the Lord has made. This amazing time in history has brought America, a great nation together in the worst economic time ever. The words of Dr. King came to past and the timing is perfect.

Happy Birthday America, lets work together with President Obama and build a perfect birthday cake so all Americans can enjoy a bite.

I love you Mr. President, may God bless you and keep you safe!

Also comparing Obama to some of the great Presidents in our history is to be completely ignorant.So let him try to do his job first and then judge him.Lets see how many campaign promises he will break.
Change?How many Clinton staffers did he appoint?Change ...now that is funny...not even sworn in and already breaking promises...this is going to be really fun....how is the media going to get on his case
without being called racist?

To me this is the scriptures of the Bible coming to life in 2009. It is also the rebuilding of the United States. President-elect Obama's campaign of change is encouraging all of us to return to the concept of "it takes a village." Not only does it take a village to raise children, it will take the village to rebuild this country.

It means change but not for the better. Obama's policies concern me. He wants tro add a trillion dollars to the national debt. This has been a know fact since the election. However, the MSM failed to report on it because they were too busy smearing Palin. Closing Gitmo is dangerous. Remember 9/11? Government is never the answer. Love big goverment, high taxes, wasteful spending, social programs, and a weaker military. Obama is your guy. I hope he succeeds but as a Conservative I strongly disagree with his policies.

Everybody is searching for a hero. Authentic heroism and change comes from an infallible God. Obama is, like all of us, inevitably human. All this hype is intoxicating. Let's stay sober-minded, please America. I wish Pres. Elect Obama well, but let's not allow emotional hype to jade us. He is inevitably human, man does not save, God does. People are starving for hope, desperate for a Savior and rightfully so. Yet what we crave, even if we do not know it or admit it, is divine intervention in these treacherous times. That kind of saving power comes from a source much higher than President Elect Obama. Again, I say, in my unpopular, humble opinion, that Obama has been chosen for this role, yet we need to be vigilant and sober-minded. A man is not God.

I am from Alberta Canada.
I have been following this special time since last spring.'
There were tears of joy for him and America here too!

I have an American connection as my fathers family immigrated to Canada when he was a child.

My son now lives in USA and I have a grandaughter there too.

I think this is the greatest thing to happen to America since Kennedy.

I only want to say that Obama is one of a kind and so warm.

I only wish that you and your colleagues would also mention that not only is he Afro American he is white also and it was his white parents who raised him and taught him.

In due respect he is half and half and should be honored for being both.

It is history in the making but would it have been such a huge
thing if his skin would have been white even thought he would be half black

I only hope that everyone in America and the world remembers how great this day will be but also remember the white people who raised him.

With great honor AND RESPECT I wish Barack and his family g reat succes.

I believe this is going to be for the greatwhole world

I

Hello Larry,
I look into Presedent Elect Obama's eyes and I see a great SOUL.
I know that he is here to lead the American people and the rest of the
world to another level of Love and Peace.
As he starts his new journey, I pray that we all pray for him that with God's Grace, he is able to fulfill what he is here for. I pray that God keeps him safe and in good health and focoused at all times.
I pray also for his lovely wife Michelle, that she is given the faith and strength to help her husband with his trails, and for his 2 sweet daughters to always know that they are loved by him and thanks for sharing him with the world

This is a new begining. President-elect Obama is bringing a real since of humanity and realizisam to the white house. I believed in him and his casue. I confirmed accomodaition at the Gaylord in June of 2008 for my family and I. There will be three generations of us taking part in this historic event. I am TRULEY TRULEY TRULEY proud to be an American that just happen to African American.

See you in Washington

On Monday I became a US citizen.
Born in England I believe the Barack Obama becoming president says to the world that America has come of age.
He comes across as a intelligent well spoken leader and unlike others before him a great orator.
When I speak with friends and relatives back in England for first time since I've lived in the US they exited about our new administration.

I'm 15 yrs old and here's my comment:
"Renewing America's Promise" was chosen as this year's Inaugural theme. This inherently suggests that our Promise was lost or had expired. I disagree. America's Promise has always been there; it has been abrogated by Fear, Greed, Corruption, Apathy, and as a result, a nationwide loss of Hope among average citizens.
Obama's election has brought great Hope to America and with it an awakening among its electorate of the Purpose and Opportunity born of the seeds of Hope that made this country the envy of many around the world and that brought them here with visions of attaining their greatest potential.
In electing Barack and Joe as President and Vice President, we have demonstrated JFK's edict, "We hold the view that the people make the best judgment in the long run" and Walt Whitman's proclamation, "The genius of the United States is not best or most in its executives or legislatures, nor in its ambassadors or authors or colleges, or churches, or parlors, nor even in its newspapers or inventors, but always most in the common people."
This Inauguration represents the reawakening of this country to its greatest resource; the power of its People, the strength of its Ideals, the Promise of its Hope to bring about Opportunity for all to reach their highest Potential and Purpose.
My parents and grandparents are always talking about how great this country "USED to be." This Inauguration represents the beginning of our return to that greatness domestically and on the world stage as well as a renewal of our collective pride.

I must say I was never an individual who enderared politics but I have to say that this inauguration has implimented societal duties to my nation and myself. President-Elect Barrack Obama is an amazing individual who justifies the vitalness of human up-bringings such as morals and values and weds them through the substance of politics.

Finally an individual whose enrichening nature is gratified with this nation acceptance of their own accountability. This new direction is just the ingredient needed to initiate productivity with the content of our character. Thank you President-Elect Obama!

I am an Iranian, living in Toronto, Canada and watching this historic event being unfold! I still can't make sense of it all but there is something that just makes me to keep watching! I'm still in awe!
Before all of these, I had no idea what the word 'inauguration' means!
But now it is the word I will remember for all my life and tell my children about it.
When all of these historic events became just a memory, I can say I was in a time that history was made!
My cable box is set on CNN to record this inauguration, so when I'm back from school I can be part of it, too!

There is a Sanskrit proverb 2000 years old. 'Ramo Swasti, Ravana Swasti'. Transliterated loosely, it means"OK with Obama, OK with Bush".
This derives from two notions:
1. Nations are like elephants going their own way. Rulers are those that jump on to the running elephant. They get thrown out sooner or later. Another jumps on. Rulers can not change the direction or purpose of the elephant. This shows that no ruler can change a nation.
2. This also shows the helplessness of the ruled. They can not influence the thoughts of rulers. The rulers are always controlled by the coterie around them.

Obama who is certainly not Mandela, may not be able deliver on the expectations of the people.

But certainly he looks honest enough to try. May the elephant go in his direction.

Oh, I also want to say they my 80 year old parents went out on a very cold night in Iowa and stood in a middle school for hours to get every person that was voting for John Edwards and any other Democrat to come over to their side...they are so very proud of that night, as I am of them. They were Republicans wht shoel time I was growing up and then my dad voeted for Bill Clinton...he was a huge supported of Obama and probaly says more about the state of the nation than anything in those cornfields of IOWAA! Sarah

IT GIVES ME A SENSE OF REAL HOPE. IT MEANS THAT WE HAVE IN HIM INTELLEGENCE AND LOVE WHICH IS A PERFECT BLEND FOR WISDOM SOMETHING THAT IS LONG OVER DUE IN THE WHITE HOUSE..

The inauguration of this media made celebrity with no experience means to me that alot of people bought what Obama was selling. The promise of waving a magic wand and making it all better...let the show begin!

We are in the midst of one of the greatest moments in this history nation. Notwithstanding the terrible economic situation this country and the world faces right now, this election has brought a most needed element of genuine hope, which I believe will turn this country around. Barack Obama is not the Messiah and will not be a perfect president. He will make mistakes; but he will be honest with the American people and with the nations of the world and that alone brings great hope.

Barack Obama is one of the greatest people I have ever seen. I am very impressed with his speeches and the way he delivers them I am even more impressed with the character of the man. All that he stands for and all that he wants to do with and for this country are ideas thought long and hard about. He is a real thinker and seems to understand the seriousness of our time. I am real excited about him, and the time we are living in. I see a real opportunity for our nation to become that shining light on a hill that the rest of the world looks to for help and inspiration.

The inauguration of Pres-Elect Obama means one thing to me. HOPE!
This is the first time in my life that I have been so involved and hopeful for all the American people. I believe that the reason that we are all so excited about this upcoming President is that he is "authentic" and "real", and I truly trust that he has the people in his best interest.

I am so excited, that I could literally dance on top of the highest building here in Washington, and I am afraid of heights.

Finally, we have someone with intergity, honest, respect, dignity, who makes you proud. You feel inspired to do whatever you can for our country.

I had no interest in the past, because, the same old white guy, with broken promises, lies, bias, deception, just made me sick, and I felt hopeless. Almost as if they all were cut from the same cloth. You saw all of them as the same. Liars, and evil men. For the first time, I am very proud, and proud of this country...

"It means waking up every morning with hope and excitement. It means a better future for my grandson who is an African American and even looks like Obama. Obama is his hero and light of hope. He is a 4th grader and believes in Obama's change for the better".

When I watch the films of the past depicting slavery, I cry. Now, Sidney Poitier to Sir with Love means even more. Now, as an African American one can truly believe that the sky is the limit. The children in my Sunday school class can now truly say, I can now dream to attain the highest office in the land and this is no longer just talk. When I look at the excitement on those kids face I know, that after Inauguration America is a changed place, especially in how we view each other and in race relations.

IT IS THE GENESIS OF "THE DREAM" AND THE RETURNING OF HOPE AND "THE LOST GLORY" TO THE WORLD; WHICH ITS MYSTERY, STILL REMAINS DIVINE.

ORAKWUE IKEGWU

HAWAII.

The inauguration mean so much to me. To give a African American a chance to be heard in a political point of view. The world need a change and i think that Barack Obama is the perfect person for the job he is so inspiring and he have things to say that people want to hear also have a meaning to what he say and i believe what he say is going to change America for the best.

One of your fellow CNN correspondents, Soledad O'Brien, stated on the air during Barack Obama's whistlestop tour that our Constitution is "FLAWED!" I think she was quoting Obama. This, in my opinion, is disrespectful and unpatriotic, especiallly at this time when Obama is about to take an oath to honor and uphold our Constitution as President. I believe such a sentiment on Obama's part, and evidently CNN's too, is a sign of things to come. I for one do not look forward to what lies ahead for all of us. Coupled with the apparent fact that Obama is not a Natural Born Citizen as required by our Constitution to be President, our Constitution is soon to be trashed. I leave to your imagination what will replace it!

I wonder what Rev. Al and Jesse Jackson really think of this,
How much money will these guys be losing out on because they cant say that a black man in america cant make it. The reason Jackson was crying so much the night of the election is that he saw the money getting pulled from his hands. Why has Al not said a thing about it?

Hope and change, boy a lot of people are really putting this up on a pedestal, but in 4 years of nothing has changed and hope is not there, this guy will be from hero to zero in no time.

Americans better be prepared for an upset.

"Obama: Conductor of the Aboveground Railroad"

If anyone ever wants to 'change' his or her mind during this 'journey' to American equality and return, Obama will pull out his vernacular and say, "Better isn’t good enough!"

Societal evolution.

I'm amazed by the media's almost exclusive predominance of economic and political, cultural and racial commentaries and coverage surrounding barack's innauguration; where is the spiritual component to this event? there is a steadfast and stellarly guiding spiritual strength that guides not only barack obama and his family, but the millions of us who support and dream Dr. King's dream coming to fruition in America's forty-fourth President– for the betterment of our nation and for a better world. Where is the coverage and discussion, the exposition of spiritual and religious inclusiveness in this historical moment and time?

Barack Obama as the first African American President has given so many persons here in the Bahamas a feeling of hope for an even brighter future. Wish that the Bahamas 1st. Prime Minister Sir. Lynden Pindling was around to see this.......because His Faith Moved Mountains also.

It simply means that Life has two main views and aspects to it i.e.-Dreams and Visions. The Bible tells us that "Where there's no Vision the people Perish"! Obama had Vision and never swayed or allowed anything or anybody rob him that Vision. Being the President of America may not be that Vision it's only a tool to aid him attain his VISION.That's why he remains humble , calm, sturdy and focused. He knows exactly what he'll like to achieve hence he's unshaken demand for the funds he needs to move on. Whereas Martin Luther King Jr. only had the Dream and Dreams don't always become reality in one's life time once he voiced it he was robbed of it by being murdered. He was robbed of his dream because he voiced it. Joseph in the bible, had a dream and as soon as he voiced it his brothers tried to rob him of that dream by selling him but God's plan in his life prevailed. Obama's Vision is yet to be revealed and will involve everyone in America and around the world to bring it to reality. With Jesus on his side YES HE CAN AND YES, WE ALL CAN!!!

The inauguration of Barack Obama as our first African-American President is historic and indescribably terriffic. It will be the first day of long-term posive change for all of us. Barack, his wife Michelle and their two daughters are positive role models for people to emulate from. It also proves that young people from all backrounds can accomplish great things if they aim high enough. Thank you and God Bless us all !

As the nation inaugurates President-Elect Obama to the highest office in America, I get cold chills all over my body. I’ve been waiting to see this day come for a very long time. You see Larry; no one would allow me an opportunity to share my book because they all told me this day would never happen.

Approximately 18 years ago I had a dream that one day these United States of America would put aside the issue of race and elect its first African American as President. The dream was one of the most fascinating I had ever experienced. So fascinating, and moving, until I began to put my thoughts down on paper in hopes of sharing my vision with the world. I decided that my manuscript would defy the odds of the conventional mind-sets and brought to life the character Jeremiah Dominique, who could and would rise above the stereotypical temperaments. Even though the writing was a fictional piece, I set out to show the world that we as black men were capable of being leaders; to represent greatness, and could bring people of all ethnicities together as one. I kept in mind that there was a need for us to be trained in the areas of wisdom, self-esteem, morality, positive insight, good judgment, and intelligence. We had to be developed to represent an acumen that would be accepted and respected by all. And here's were the character Charles Reed better known as "Uncle Charlie" was tasked with the responsibility to groom Jeremiah for a journey that would eventually create a miraculous celebration that placed the entire world in awe. The manuscript was entitled "The Blassiah"–The Greatest Story of Faith and Hope Ever Told. Blas-si-ah is pronounced like Mes-si-ah replacing the "Mes" with "Blas".

Once the manuscript was completed, I began to test the waters in the literary community seeking constructive criticism. All doors were instantly shut closed in my face. I got responses that read "Are you out of your mind?" Several book publishers remarked "There's no way a black man will ever be elected president of the United States." While many Christian publishing houses wrote back stating "The Blassiah is Blasphemy." I laughed to myself "Don't they know that Blassiah is just a nick name given to Jeremiah by Uncle Charlie, so what's blasphemous about a nickname?" After countless, countless, countless rejection, finally, a small publishing company located in Huntington, West Virginia known as University Editions published my manuscript in the year 1992 ISBN: 1-56002-182-9. I must admit that my prediction was 8 years sooner. The book ends in the year 2000 with Jeremiah elected as President at the turn of the century when America was undergoing a rude awakening. Many false prophets had arisen claiming to be the savior; nevertheless in spite of a rapid transformation to Christianity, for the first time in the history of our country many people put the race card aside abolishing sectarianism.

President Elect Obama's Inauguration is my premonition come true. So many people, book publishers, etc. told me that I didn't get it right. They laughed at my writing, and said there's no way possible this day would ever come to pass. I know God gave me the inspiration to write The Blassiah because I always felt deep in my heart we would see an African American hold the highest office in the land. When I first saw President Elect Obama speak at the Democratic National Convention in 2004, I was sitting in my living room at home. I reached over to my wife and I said "you're looking at the first black president of the United States. He is the Blassiah! Once he announced his candidacy, I knew deep in my heart that he would win by a landslide. I also knew that God had his hand all over President Elect Obama's movement; just the way I wrote it some 18 years ago. I would like to share an excerpt from page 163 – 164:

Inauguration Day was the biggest, most important celebration America had ever seen. Millions of people from all over the country and the world lined the streets of Washington just to get a glimpse or a wave of the hand from this distinguished, honorable black politician who would soon be officially granted the title of "President of the United States of America". The National Guard was called in to insure adequate protection for this historic moment. Everywhere you looked, young and old, rich and poor, black and white, red and yellow, all shapes, all sizes, all creeds, all religions, all professions and all walks of life were on hand to witness this heroic triumph. Those less fortunate who were unable to be there in person were glued to their television sets or listened anxiously over the radio
air waves. Every major country from around the world was present to cover the story. All regularly scheduled television shows were interrupted to bring the live broadcast. Yes, everyone took time out of their busy schedules to pay tribute to a man of many wonders. One would almost think that the Messiah himself had
really come back to rescue a sinful world from the evil that had it in such an awful state. And when the President smiled, the world smiled back, for they knew he was a credit to his race and he had achieved the most remarkable accomplishment in the history of US democracy. "AND HIS LIGHT SHINETH AROUND THE WORLD!"

I've been carrying this story with me for a long time now. And I never could get anyone to seriously promote the novel. I thought I'd give it another opportunity as history unfolds Tuesday in Washington, DC.

One final thought should be posted. I do not care what color or race our President is....but isn't it interesting that there is so much talk about the joy of finally having an "African American" President, but not one word that we still have never had a woman president? But then, a Black man that owned even a tiny piece of land could vote 65 YEARS before a woman of any status could...... It appears women of all colors are still taking that back seat in the bus.

I am so excited about the inauguration of Barack Obama. After the last eight years of President Bush, he is a breath of fresh air. I am almost 80 years old, and at last have I hope for the future. Concerning the man who is sick of the hype, he doesn't have to watch.

Obama is a WORLD CITIZEN. This will change the way we interact with other nations on events that affect us all. America has tremendous problems today, but so does the world. FINALLY, we have an individual that can LISTEN to diverse positions and formulate policy around solutions that balance our needs as a nation, and a world.

JT

It is my greatest hope that Mr Obama will soon be heralded for being an erudite, humble, selfless, authentic, influential, American leader, father & husband without the need to qualify his greatness with reference to the color of his skin.

Larry,
There are three other persons that will not be at President-elect Obama's Inauguration in person.They are his father and his mother and most of all his grandparents who raised him to be the man he is today.His grandparents are the ones that gave up many things in order to help him go to College so everyone that praises Obama needs to give them praise too.

I am so terribly excited over the innaugration of Obama and Biden this coming Tuesday - I was lucky enough to be one of their volunteers from Pike County - I am 73 years young and I feel in my heart that our country will be in the best of hands - I love the idea that we will have a young family in the W hite House again and I know we have a peace maker in both Obama and Biden - I spent the day watching CNN's great coverage of the train trip for Pa to Wash DC .

I am 70 yrs old and it is a great honnor for me to see the inauguration Barack Obama.I thought that i would never see the day when a black mand would become president. I wish him the best and God bless him and help him make the best decision for our country.

THE INAUGUARATION MEANS RENEWED HOPE FOR AMERICA, IT MEANS THAT I CAN BELIEVE IN THIS COUNTRY AGAIN, IT MEANS THAT SOMEONE LIKE ME WHO GREW UP WITH MODEST MEANS CAN BECOME ANYTHING I WANT TO BE. THIS INAUGURATION MEANS THE WORLD TO ME BECAUSE FOR THE FIRST TIME I SEE SOMEONE WHO REPRESENTS ME!

The official cxeremony itself is no different than the other 43 times.

The part that he is black is.

There are alot of countries on earth where blacks were and are not slaves or second class citizens.

The problem is the way the black people were mistreated in the united states.

Hopefully the problem has been corrected,as the focus has now shifted to enslaving the white middle class,all by the very same people they elected.

This Inauguration is to me, the culmination of my Mother's dream. My twin sister and I were raised white children in the South during desegragation. Our Mother was a fearless little white woman from Queens, NY who faught , marched, and advocated for civil and human rights. Though she died in 1970, she will be with me, my sister, and our children and grandchilden on Tuesday. My Mom Dorothy De Forest is the hero who led me to this joyous place.

Hi Larry, thank you for the wonderful work you are doing, I must say congratulations to our president elect Barack Obama, my family and I are so excited to have him as our president , god blessed Mr. Obama and family god blessed America, I wish we could go to inauguration to witness and celebrate it too but we can only watch it on TV, I know president elect Obama will be a very good president for all Americans, Mr. president elect Obama we are so proud of you sir god blessed, please send a copy to the president elect Larry.

Thank You Larry.

Borrower Rate Reset to 3% will be like a Magic Wand to the Economy

We all recognize that the United States economy is paralyzed and it would take trillions of tax payers dollars to re-kick started. My idea will change and turn around the economy in 3 month instead of a decade just like a magic wand.
The executive branch in the Federal government need to order a mortgage rate reset for every borrower in residential, commercial, industrial and investment real estate from the current rate to three percent (3%) This reset to be effective within 30 days after the president orders it into law and it should be for next 3 to 5 years. Some negative impact but the positive will over power the negative.
Increase cash flow, this will increase spending and saving to retirements, it will be an incentive for home owners to stay in their homes and save their property from foreclosure, banks will reduce the inventory of properties that are being taking due to default.
Less stress on government paying out stimulus packages.

Joe Manuel Real Estate Broker Michigan

The inauguration stands for and represents a machine working for the better for the country and abroad !!!

i am happy there is a ceasefire in gaza,apparently.It would be a terrible distraction to january 20th. What concerns me is what is going to happen after that .

Growing up in the segregated south, I know first hand the struggles of blacks. As an African American Studies professor, I never thought that I would live to see a black man as president, it is one of the most exciting times in my life.

The struggle of Martin Luther King has finally yieled fruit – which is president elect Barrack Obama to the white house. Thanks to the American people who had proved to the world that color or tribe do not have relevance when taking decision. I hope my country Nigeria will learn from this historic moment.

This is the worse elect President I have ever seen! He has no experience dealing with crisis situations, no military experience. Very sad I must say. Two years in the Senate that it! Then the worst is, the news media carrying on like they’re drunk over this guy makes me want to throw up. I want to know what this guy has done besides bought his way into the White House. The next worse is Clinton, who totally stopped the defense contracts in California and Army bases around the country. All I can say we had a very good President this last eight years in defending this country against Terror attacks. I believe President Bush is the best President ever!!!!!!!

We now have the personality type, the calm thinker, the negotiator, and the communicator. Presidential advisers are in place to pick up the slack of what a POTUS lacks. Well for the first time since Washington, POTUS achieved finally FOR the people with the ability of 100% capacity. Now we have to fill this capacity with our support, sacrifice, and hands on government from the people. We cant sit back anymore complaining. We should read the paper everyday, actually talk to our represented government officials, attend town meetings, and be a hands on citizen for our communities. As a person of color, its a process becoming full circle. Slaves help build the White House. Elected POTUS that have been tenants in the past have owned slaves. What an interesting time we are living in and Im proud that my children are here to see it. They are not even old enough to understand but Im glad the first or second president they have ever heard of is President Barack Obama.

The inauguration means nothing to me because I have better things to worry about. But do ask Obama this for me: BofA got $20 billion additional bailout money but meanwhile the APR on my BofA Visa keeps going up. Incredible! Is BO going to bail me out as well before I go bankrupt? Quick slobbering over BO; he is NO Lincoln or JFK.

I think Obama is the best thing that has happened not only to black America but all Americans. Obama is a influence for many people that you can rise to the top from the bottom. I'm an 12 year old African American young man who is being raised by a single mother. I think when I grow up I'm going to be in a better position than I am now because of Obama and my mother. Obama's inauguration is going to give me a brighter future because my mom Michele Reyna is going to have a easier life,and that is not only beneficial for my mom, but it is also beneficial for me.

President -.elect Obama was a choice above and beyond the past cast of characters........and not to be characterized as .."better than what we had or better yet, lesser of two evils. He stands alone as the "favorite son", the peoples's choice.

I sense a genuine commitment of duty, with realistic goals and a connectivity to a majority of the National/World people.

America is the land of opportunity, which my family took advantage of to elevate their standard of living. .As a Mexican-American, 61 years of age, I have experienced opportunities beyond my wildest dreams. Had I written my goals at the age of two, in the prune orchards of Gilroy, California, I would have sold myself short.

I hope he re-energizes our "Civic Duty ", so that the people can participate in our recovery.

I have the confidence that President Elect Obama has the optimism that our great country needs to be even greater and that this is going to be the new beginning that we all need....It is great to be a part of this making of history...our prayers are with you Barrack family and Biden family....Bethlehem Pa

It means our country has a chance to redeem itself here and around the world . Barack will stand up for us as a nation that has needs of it' s own. I am confident that we can now, as a nation, as AMERICANS, rebuild our country and secure it's future for the next generations. It means we have a president who really cares about people and this country. ALL THE PEOPLE – NOT JUST A FEW. He will help the middle class get their work and jobs back so we can continue to provide the tax base in our cities and states.

GOD BLESS AMERICA!

P.S. The younger generations do not have all these race hang ups!
That is insignificant to most people 50 and under. Unless you are a hopeless redneck.

I grew up in Montgomery Co Md, 30 mins from Downtown DC. This area has always been a great area to be raised in because of the ethnic and cultural diversity. I have been to 2 inaugurations and for me the whole process gives me a since of pride and belonging. Obama for me is a man who has big dreams, along with his other fine qualities, and has earned the chance to show the nation what he can do. America is still young as far as history goes. I would consider myself to be a patriot. I have 2 former presidents in my ancestry as will as former plantation owners and abolitionists, which are a lot of opposing forces. I like Barack Obama and also liked George W Bush. I feel all my ancestors beliefs and opinions influence my opinions and decisions each day of life. In the words if Albert Einstein The mark of intelligence is objectivity. Godspeed to Barack Obama his family and incoming cabinet and staff. Thank you

This inauguration mean alot to me. To see a aferican american in the white house it got to be God, everything this man is doing you can see it is God. I just want the people to know treat him just like they treat the other president -.Roman was not built in a day. We need to give him a chance and pray for him on a daily basic and i want him to know to keep up the good work by staying humble just like Jesus did while he was on the cross.I am going to the inauguration i have no ticket i am taking a bus trip i just want to support and be apart history.

please could you correct the spelling yielded for me.

whatever you want

I remember being excited about voting when I was just 18 years old. It was the first year 18 year olds were given this responsibility. I have always taken this civic duty very seriously. This year when I voted by absentee ballot I felt this same excitement. It was a feeling of a chance for renewal much like all those years ago. As I left my tiny little post office in my tiny little town I realized I felt as if I was 18 years old again; full of hope and a bright future for our nation. I felt the magnitude of my one vote and how it could change the world as we know it. I was move to tears as I placed my ballot in that slot that dark November morning. I am sure I am not the only person from my generation who felt this way. We have hope again!

WITH PELOSI. AND BINDEN THAT' S CHANGE FOR THE WORST OH OBAMA IS NOT GOD

we are like the city on the hill. let's live up to it

The inauguration of Mr. Barack Obama overwhelmes me with such a great joy that I can't speak about him without tears streaming down my cheeks. The reaction from around the world speaks volumes. This WORLD wants CHANGE!! I know he will lead us like no other but as he has said many times WE need to do our part too. I hope this inauguration inspires people to help others, volunteer, sponsor a child who has Aids, lets do this together!!!

And to Mr. Obama my hero......Get Down With Your Bad Self !!!!!!!!!

"we are like the city on the hill. let’s live up to it"

Ever see what happens to a city when a black person takes control? Take a good look at Newark NJ and Baltimore Md.

Barack Obama told his daughter that he was going to be the first African/American in the White House. Why would he lie to his daughter. Barack is By Racial, not African/American!
Also, Everyone born is this country is simply American!
I don't tell anybody that I German/American! We're all American!

Larry, I really think it is now time to stop all the "Labeling." This means everyone at a level playing field. We have suffered enough as a country with placing people in categories or classes. When it all comes down to it- WE ARE HUMAN BEINGS-we all breath the same oxygen to live and have hearts to pump blood or give blood to anyone. NO MATTER WHAT!!

Hello American,

Obama is the chosen one hand picked by GOD this is an example of what the book written by Rick Warren, "The Purpose Driven Life". Our maker and creator is trying to tell us that we all were created by him and while we are all individuals we are his human beings, I work in the public and deal with people from all over the world, and when I met people I see their souls, not black ,white or other but human beings. I treat them all with respect and dignity the way I want to be treated. President-Elect Obama see us all as human being not as a color and does not except other people ignorance and labels. America don't let anyone make you fell un-important with no purpose because we
all have a purpose, from the riches man to the poorest bag lady on the street we have a purpose .President – Elect Obama this is your purpose you were your parents purpose. America look in the mirror and look for the humanity in you not your color. God Bless America

God Loves you and us around the world

Back again, and hoping this blog is also an open conversation. In reading some peoples comments, I feel a need to say to 1 or 2 about the race issue and the African American enthusiasm. Yes Barack Obama's mother was white and he was raise by her parents. All Everyone knows this, and not one Black person I know, met or heard has spoken in any negative terms about it. This is Ok. This the real world. Barack Obama is a product of both races and that's a good thing. I was born of Black parents (mixed with nearly everything, and also have mixed chinese cousins, happy proud of them also). But for Blacks, Barack is the first President that in this historically racist country, is the first President that looks like us. Important, Heck YES. If you've ever been past up for a city cab, know that you did'nt get the job, because of your race, don't trust the police (who're paid to protect us all), history has made all blacks weary of them. When you know and feel that the elected officials set the tone for the country and how people people are treated by their officials, YES Obama it's unbelievably important to us. Again, with the deapest respect for Baracks parents and grandparents, Barack is the first president that looks like us. Hope is alive in America because with his color he was only now (and during America's worst times) able to go this far. Halletuia.
To someone who feels the cost of the Inauguration is way to expensive. Listen, the inauguration is the one thing that represents what America is all about. We're celebrating the process that definds us, and the success of our political system. The cost of 1 Cruise Missle cost in year 1999 was $1,500,000. The inauguration, 2 missles. That's one days firing practice. Changing the White House furniture, for our country, please thats a petty conversation (petty cash) 🙂 Everyone let us begin to enjoy our country, love each other, and hope we can all advance together. We have to many people around this world that love to see us fight amongst ourselves. Appreciate the moment, and know we're becoming a better country.

Have been watching your show here in Australia . Can't wait to see History in the Making ! !! !! We were in Hawaii on election day & that too was great.
Have a good day
Margaret Melbourne

At this historic Inauguration, all Americans should kneel down together and get up as one nation under God. If we unite under President Obama, we can and will bring back our country, to be the nation that our forefathers founded. Forget black and white, first and last and start to love your neighbor, work together and move forward into the light. This is the chance, that this inauguration is offering America. God bless everyone.

The election of President Barack Obama is the expression of the resolve and endurance of the American people for their love of freedom and liberty as an inalienable right that all people are free and created equal.

The inauguration of President Obama is not about the man himself but about the American people and their desire to remove all that is constantly obstructing the light revealing the course leading to that freedom and liberty that belongs not to us alone but to all people.

We, as Americans, understood that we did not invent democracy, or believe that democracy is limited by the mere pronouncement by any form of government. We, forever, desire to grow, prosper and live as free people, and offer the same to all without regard for color, religion, rich or poor, wise or foolish, and whether conscious or innocent of the rights and privileges attributed to that enduring liberty and freedom that belongs to all.

Therefore, the fight is not ours alone for that freedom belongs not to us but to all. Without or with President Obama, the course ahead will be difficult and tumultuous for mankind’s memory is short and the wisdom gained from pain and suffering fades promptly, including the luster and expectations from a promising leader. Only the endowing Almighty and Authority for our inalienable freedom and liberty can provide that “government of the people, by the [clean and righteous], for the people”.

Mr. King, I watch the many trusting faces as they look up to Mr. Obama, to some he is their Beacon of hope, and to some it seems, their Savior. Their hands reach out and I am reminded of those on a sinking ship reaching for a life line. However, the reality is, Mr. Obama is only human and the problems this world faces can only be resolved by Divine intervention from the One who created us. The truth of the matter is, Mr. Obama in the middle of calamity, has become the Captain of a sinking ship, in a perfect storm that threatens the very existence of not only the United States but all of mankind. The only way this world can survive is to start from zero, as the Bible mentions at Daniel 2:44 that “ In the days of those kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be brought to ruin. And the kingdom itself will not be passed on to any other people. It will crush and put an end to all these kingdoms, and it itself will stand to times indefinite; As humans those of us that compromise the Bible, and base God's word on their own understanding, will find it difficult to wholeheartedly believe the Word as literally written, for example: Psalm 146:3 says: "Do not put your trust in Nobles, nor in the son of earthling man, to whom no salvation belongs." This system has failed us. All of these things are a sign of the times as mentioned at 2Timothy 3:1-5. May God have mercy on us.

The inauguration means so much to me and the only way I could express it is through a poem.

The Journeys of Our People

Our ancestors came to America on a ship
unwillingly they were forced to make this trip
they were treated with no respect
sold to whoever wrote the biggest check
families were torn apart
a black man couldn't take a stand
regarded just physically
robbed of everything mentally
Harriet led many toward the North Star
our people fought for their freedom in the Civil War
Lincoln emancipated
we were elated
but
Jim Crow started to grow
you know-
the time when we could only enter the back dough
Rosa refused to move
they wanted us to ride on the back of the bus
the Montgomery Boycott made a national fuss
they wouldn't let us vote
the March in Selma, this idea our people smote
they wanted us to drink from a black only foutain
Dr. King proclaimed "Let freedom ring from every mountain"
in Birmingham they sprayed us with a water hose but
equality was a door our people refused to let close
we have traveled a long way under difficult circumstances
we have many courageous heroes who were unafraid to take chances
learn the lesson our ancestors taught
nothing changed until they fought, not violently but intelligently
remember to achieve anything of value, it will not be free of drama
to measure the distance we have traveled take a look at our black president,- Barack Obama!!!

Always inspired by the words of President Abraham Lincoln, a remarkable man spoke to me again over this past two years. This time Barack Obama spoke his timeless words, carefully chosen with the strength that inspired the country to hope once again for a better future.
Words on human nature, praise and ridicule, honesty, democracy, achievement and disappointment, patriotism and idealism. Chosen words that can paint dreams, heal injustices, and pass along truths to the latest generation. Words can interpret the present and speak to the future, and reflect on the past. Words can stir up the worst or find the best, destroy or build up, tarnish or cleanse. Words were a cornerstone of this campaign, and revealed how if misused they become weapons. The wise are impeccable with the word, and Barack Obama chose words of compassion, honesty and inspiration.
His confidence in ordinary people, and belief in the potential each one of us has, empowered the people of this country to believe in themselves, and succeed in naming him our 44th President.
Incorporating shared ideals and lessons of faith, that with determination from within myself, I could make a difference in my way. With my own resolution to succeed, and be a part of the effort to bring change at a time that we could not look back, I never heard no. I heard yes I can. I heard yes we can.

I feel that this election is proof that this nation has come a long, long way from the days of Jim Crow and segregation. It is proof that MOST people who lived during that time knew down deep that America's treatment of blacks was wrong. Many of the people who felt so much hate for non-whites during that era have passed on, and their children have grown up to start a healing process for a deep-seeded shame that resonated throughout their lives. Many people felt and knew that the way blacks were treated was wrong, but that's the way it always was, so they went along with it. Many whites were quick to admit they "liked" blacks, and were friends with many of them . . .but still felt superior to them, because they were raise to believe that. I truly believe they felt their belief was okay with God, because they filled up churches every Sunday. It is impossible for them to realize how proud a black American is at this historic time in history, when this country is finally putting the horrible racial scars of its' past behind, and allowing the words that 'all men are created equal' to become a reality. And what a beautiful, educated, man the people have chosen. A man who is a blend of both races, black and white, who is determined to change the way America views the African American, a man who is dedicate to promote love for his fellow American, regardless of what color he may be. What a wonderful time to e an American and to see so many people come together for the hope of a better tomorrow for everybody. I'd like to think that all past presidents, even though they were white, were for all citizens. Unfortunately, that was not always the case . . .President-elect Obama is not of the 'pedigree' that America selected previously . . .not of that status quo. . .but a regular man from a single-parent family who has risen to become our next president. Now the words of the declaration of independance has true meaning. God Bless America!

I am proud to be a U.S. citizen again. I am proud that the people elected Barack Obama and I am looking forward to the unity he is trying to inspire. It is the unity and the optimism that will save the usa. If we unite finally then we can accomplish much in this nation. That is the main thing he can offer us and if he pulls that off he will be a mesiah in my humble opinion. Afterall the saving is really up to all of us is it not? As an aside, I am appalled at the failures of capitolism from the standpoint of the rampant corruption in the system and the rampant crookedness inbedded into the capitolistic mechanics. Captiolism is a wonderful economic system if the crooks are not leading the system.

What this means to me? It proves that dreams really can come true ... just that some dreams take longer then others But we should never doubt the truth we feel in our hearts ... it will overcome! At noon on the 20th, I will feel blessed to be a witness to this great event and to the opportunities and hope that come with Barack Obama. I Know that the world will look more kindly on the U.S.A. as our future unfolds.

I was sent an invitation to the inauguration but will not be attending because of the logistics in D.C. and the inevitabiltiy of the difficult traveling circumstances. I wish I were going because I am very excited about the election of Barack Obama and I would like to see him in person. He didn't campaign in my state but I was very active in his campaign and worked hard for him. I am disappointed that many of the people I know here are still racist with regard to President elect Obama and can't see beyond skin color when they consider persons. I think that because we have elected Obama much of the world will become impressed with our great nation once again. Afterall most of the world is 'of color'. And any intelligent human can certainly recognize the superb qualities of Barack Obama. I am so relieved, impressed and thrilled that we as a people did the right thing finally by electing Obama.

POSSIBLITY!

America is a decent country. Americans are kind,compassionate people. I was an Exchange Student in Redwood City ,California in '66-'67. I came from a poor country called Ceylon, which has since changed it's name to Sri Lanka. The family with whom I lived for a year loved me and have stayed in touch with me for the past 42 years. They are white, very affluent, and very broad minded. They taught me that Black people are good honest and hardworking. However I have spent many years in Australia where I now live and in China, Hong Kong and Singapore where I have lived in the past, hiding the fact that I am Pro-American, that the American people and the American Nation I love and respect are both decent and non-racial....I cried when Barrack Hussein Obama was elected President, not only because what this means to the Black people in the US but also for all oppressed people the world over. And me... well I can now say, " I love America and America is a Good decent country. Thank you for the opportunity

i'm fifty and this was the most exciting election of my lifetime. i'm glad obama exists. i'm glad he's going to be a presence in our lives. under bush-cheney our rights as a people were diminished. our political system is morally bankrupt with lobbyist and politicians manipulating things to their own end. look where their greed has taken us. obama changes all that. obama is hope. obama ran a very different campaign and it speaks volumes about the man. his sincerity is true. his sincerity is visible, so visible. that's why this is sooo great! because of the man he is, the inspiration he solicits. being AA is only icing on the cake!

Larry,that picture of you is very predictable.The caption is "YOU ,you're the little punk that lit my garage on fire"
Hilarious.
The TY beanie babies of Obama's 2 girls,are they made in china?
There is a guy selling laser burned toast of celebs including Obama.
Why not make a toaster so that the red hot elements brown george bush's image into your toast every morning.?That way if you burn the toast you get to put it in the garbage and feel good.

While we can understand the natural pride of Afro=Americans at the election of Barak Omaka, we should remember that most Americans share in the American Dream. Obama's victory dramatizes for all Americans, regardless of race, sex, religion, background, that any American citizen has the prospect of becoming President. We thank Obama for keeping the American Dream alive and strong.

Poem by Laura Joyce Hunter (Copyright 11-4-07)
"Victory for Our New Hero" (Living Tribute To Barack Obama)

You Are the Hope God sent down to a New Generation And
You Are the Hope God sent down to an Older Generation
That once dared to Hope and up in smoke Went Our Heroes
One by One; Bobby, Martin Luther and John.

Afraid We were to Hope again dare, learning just to tolerate
The leftovers (some better than others) that were there,
Trying to fill Their shoes. It sometimes gave Us the hopeless blues.

When it comes to politics, We were tired of the lies, the greed, the scandals, the genocide, and the tricks.

Then came out of the clouds of People a decent Man
True to truth and His sweet little Family and all We hold dear;
To hope again do we dare?

You are our Martin Luther, Bobby and John all rolled up and wrapped into One Man Still Singing Their Liberty Song.

You are for TODAY.
We circle You with prayer, so no One else dare take again
Our dream away. Weary are We from believing again and again,
Only to have to cry a lament.

But alas! Your Forefathers did not die in vain. In fact, their blood runs through Your sweet living veins.

Speak it out! Let Us With You shout!
Let us Believe Again:

YES, WE CAN!
YES, WE CAN!\
YES WE CAN!!

I am a member of Love Center Ministries in Oakland California and one of my Pastors (Pastor Ronnie McFarland) had a beautiful Prayer for President Obama I wanted to share with you.

Prayer for President Barack Obama

We pray Lord that you protect the President and his family on a daily basis. We pray that he will realize his personal inadequacy to fulfill his task and be dependent upon you for wisdom, knowledge, and the courage to do what he knows to be right. We pray that he would reject all counsel that violates your principles and that he would trust God to prove him right. We pray Lord, that he would resist those who would pressure him to violate his conscience and that by Your power, Lord Jesus that he reverses the trend that has over taken this nation. We ask You, Lord that he would be ready to forsake his personal ambition and political causes, if to do so would be for the good of the country. Lord help him to rely upon prayer and the Word of God for his source of strength, courage, and wisdom for decisions in his daily walk. Father please restore dignity, honor, trustworthiness, and righteousness to the office of the Presidency of the United States of America. And help him to remember to be a good example in his personal conduct for the fathers and sons of this nation to follow. Lord guide him and let him listen with his heart and soul to those whom You have appointed to know the truth concerning our land and world. We pray You will remain the most important influence of our Presidents life and in his decisions regarding our country. That he will love and practice mercy and justice that he will praise and adore You. That he will act wisely, that he will live a life of integrity both in public and in private. That he will sense and know the presence of God in his life and that he will hate what is evil. We ask Lord Jesus that he will not tolerate compromise in his life or in those who surround him. That he will keep his heart right with God and man that would repent of sin and fight against it and that he will hate and avoid pride, evil talk, and slander. That he will appoint blameless and efficient men and women to positions of authority and that he will maintain blameless and godly standards, that lies and deceit would be unacceptable to him. Please father; guide his path to build a righteous foundation for this nation. Lead him, Lord Jesus to be reminded daily that he is accountable to Almighty God for his position, and for the way he handles himself, for the decisions he makes will influence not only the present day, but also the future of the world. We pray in Jesus Name. Amen

Pastor Ronnie McFarland
Assistant Pastor of Love Center Ministries, Inc.

This inauguration is something that, as an American, I am proud to witness. Not since September 11th has this nation felt so united. Only one man could do that, and that man is Barack Obama. I have great faith in him.