Welcome to the Whitehouse Jed Bartlet, I mean president Obama
January 20, 2009
Welcome to the Whitehouse Jed Bartlet. When the West Wing was up and running as a TV show, I remember watching and saying to myself, oh, if only the US had a president even half as smart as this fictional character. I think it’s happened. Forget that President Obama is African American. That’s only mildly interesting. More important, are his ideas. Finally, an articulate, compelling, intelligent president. A man who speaks with conviction. I was amazed by this speech. Lines like: “We remain a young nation, but in the words of scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things.” And “To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.” Wow. It had meat. This guy actually said something. This guy has a vision for his country that might include words like honour, and integrity. He seems to really like words. He certainly understands the power of words. He also seems to have a pretty clear idea of what’s going on in the world. Obama made promises to the American people, and to all the people on the planet.
While the booing of outgoing President Bush was not very classy, I can certainly understand it. Going from Bush to Obama is like going from Mr. Magoo to James Bond. It’s been a frustrating eight years for a lot of Americans. Historians will pronounce their judgments on the Bush boys, and I can’t see it as being good.
I love it that Obama got out of his car (twice!!!) and took a walk up Pennsylvania Avenue with his wife. That image, for me, that somewhat courageous walk did it for me. Pity the poor secret service agents who must have protested and then hearts pounding, done their job.
2 Comments
1. Mike Gravel had this to say: Jan 21, 2009 ~ 11:52 ~ #
It’s amazing to see how this man has inspired people around the world. People in France weeping at his speech, celebrations across Africa, etc. It’s astounding. And of course, the cynics are maintaining their sneers. He has done what a great leader should – inspire people to be better, and to do better. He’s changed the mood of a nation, and affected the mood in countless others.
His speech was an inspiring call to action. Here is hoping that the Amercians rise to his challenge and don’t just assume that Obama will fix everything.
2. thomas had this to say: Jan 22, 2009 ~ 10:55 ~ #
And now, at the end of the month, we look to Canadian politics…and the politicians who are not Obama. Just a little charisma would be so welcomed…Maybe they’ll be inspired also. Maybe they’ll demand speeches that actually say something. Maybe they’ll insist on working on their own speeches. Maybe they’ll look to the good of all Canadians instead of participating in a political circle-jerk. Oh, I know I’m dreaming….