I cried today

My brother and I some times comment on the ease in which our father can cry, kind of like those sappy Hallmark commercials. However, we love him for it.

I wish I could blame it on pregnancy hormones, but I am not quite sure how long AFTER delivery that I can actually use that as an excuse. Therefore, I will have to face the facts that it might be genetic and I am more like my father than I thought.

For today, I cried. Bob asked me why I was crying and all I could say was I am not sure why.

I have to admit that I was pretty much glued to the television today. No, there were not all new episodes on HGTV or FoodNetwork, but I was fascinated by all of the Inauguration events that were taking place.

I know that I have not lived as long as some, but I do not remember a time when there were so many expectations, so much celebration, so much media surrounding the festivities of the president elect. I also never thought that I would see what happened today in my life time - not only an african american president elected and sworn into office, but the hope that many have placed upon his shoulders. Many have been calling this an historical event. Yes, I would have to agree. However, what really made me cry today was seeing the mall filled to the brim with people. For some/many that have never been to the mall, it might seem pretty trivial. I had to explain to Bob why I was so amazed at the sight of it. Even on TV it looks pretty massive, however, I have been to the mall on several occassions and found it a wonderful, peaceful and LARGE place. However, every time I have visited, it was during the spring or summer when their were leaves on the trees. The foliage does provide one with the sense of intimacy. The feeling that even in a vast area, there is a cozy, safe feeling. Seeing the mall without the foliage, you could just see the never ending sea of people. People who came from all over to witness the historical moment. It was seeing all of those people, people hoping and wishing for a change, that made me cry. Maybe finally, our country's top officials can work together for the good of the people - for it is the people that put them where they are. I some times think that those in Washington forget that. Actually, I think that many politicians starting from local government to Washington forget that.

I have hopes for a new era. I know it will be hard, but I am hopeful for our future and the future of our children and our children's children.

I know it might sound cliche, but it is the truth. It is how I feel and that is why I cried today.