Memories from Inauguration

January 20, 2009. It was a very cold, gloomy morning when I joined an estimated 2,000,000 people in welcoming our new President at the Presidential Inauguration. I was right in the middle of the crowd between the Smithsonian “castle and the Natural History Museum. Everyone was in good cheer despite the weather. Most of us arrived very early to find a spot on the mall. Many of us brought thermoses, snacks, and box lunches. I know I was wearing triple layers of clothing. It took a lot of effort to get there but it was worth it!

People were all friendly, polite and high-spirited. Although there were numerous security personnel around, (and thankfully, many bathrooms!), I saw no problems. Race, religion, age, political leanings; none of these mattered. We were all there for a single reason, to see the Inauguration of President Barrack Obama. The most amazing thing to me was when the President gave his Inaugural Address, it was dead quiet across the mall. The only thing I hear were a few “Amen’s”. Imagine 2,000,000 people all being quiet for 18 minutes! It is hard to keep a classroom of 30 quiet for that long!

I was glad I could be there. Consider taking your students to Inauguration 2013. It is an experience that both you and your students will never forget. I know I never will. Your students can be part of history or just read about it. See you there!