As we all know, history was made Tuesday afternoon when Barack Obama became the 44th President of the United States. But what does this really mean?
In reality, none of us know what will happen next. We won't for a while. Obama might already have an 80 percent approval rating, but we will have to wait to see how that pans out. We need to remember not to get ahead of ourselves.
Whether you voted for Obama in the 2008 election or not, it is certainly up to your discretion how to view this presidential moment. It does not make you more or less of an American than anyone else. I just hope you at least take something from it. Recognize what occurred and acknowledge the transition. Be active and participate in what's going on.
Personally, I enjoyed watching the inauguration festivities and post-game analysis on television. I believe it's a good time for change and electing an African-American as president surely qualifies as so.
Similar to Obama's inauguration speech, I hope we all take a sense of responsibility as we move forward.
In regard to the inauguration, however, take it for what it is. My interpretation or meaning of what occurred Tuesday will certainly be different than a fellow citizen who suffered through segregation during the 1950s.
But that's why I think there are so many different balls following presidential inaugurations. Everyone celebrates the occasion differently. Everyone expresses different emotions and feelings. What we can share in common, however, is that we are all affected by this transition, good or bad.
It's without question that the majority of Americans followed the inauguration, but not everyone did. I may feel excited that we have a new president and Cabinet, but you may not. And that's OK.
Maybe the only thing you'll remember from Tuesday is Obama and Chief Justice John Roberts struggling to say the oath.
The important thing is that we create our own meaning and individual interpretation. That's what makes America unique.
As I reflect back on Tuesday afternoon I will forever remember the cold temperatures, intense security, the sweet new Cadillac limo and Dick Cheney in a wheelchair. But for you it might be what designer Michelle Obama chose for her inaugural dress or George W. Bush's grim look.
Whatever the case, be involved and acknowledge these changing times in America.
I recognize the 1.7-mile motorcade tradition from the Capitol Building to the White House, but I could certainly do without it. I think it's a tad bit ridiculous but it is what it is.
For me, this inauguration represents progress and evolution: progress in the sense that someone other than a white man is president and evolution in the sense that we have a new fearless leader. Besides, different doesn't always mean bad, it just means different.
During one of the evening balls, Vice President Joe Biden said he came to the Senate at the age of 29. Questioning what has changed, he simply replied, "Well I'm not 29 anymore."
And his statement embodies what Tuesday's inauguration means to me. It's a representation of evolution in America. Biden is no longer a 29-year-old Senator. He is 66 years old and the current vice president of the United States.
In the end, I just hope you aren't completely dormant during this transitional phase. Get involved. Share your feelings. There is much to talk about.
You may wish Bush was still in power or McCain was actually the president, but like I have said before: It is what it is.
Personally, I feel the inauguration is an example of progress, but more importantly evolution.
And you?
Jason Marer is a junior majoring in social studies education and writes 'Think to Exist' for the Daily News. His views do not necessarily agree with those of the newspaper.
Write to Jason at jsmarer@bsu.edu
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