President Obama

Congratulations Mr. President

As I followed President Barack Obama's inauguration ceremony on CNN.com, I cannot help being inspired by his speech. I slept early to make sure that I can wake up to witness the live coverage (1 a.m, 21 January Malaysia time). I have never followed past American President's inauguration ceremonies in my life The moment can be considered historic because for many, President Obama is a symbol of change. For me I just wanted to see what is in store for us, the citizens of the world. after all he will feature a lot in our newspapers and television screens for the next four years (if he gets reelected it will be eight years). My interest will not be as deep following Tun Mahathir - Rob open arguments regarding what is expected of this percieved change.


Some of the CNN commentators commented that his speech lacked some memorable 'cliches' or memorable lines (like Kennedy's 'ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country), but I have to disagree with them. It contained some message for emerging nations, like Malaysia, with his offer of extending friendship. It is a good sign but we have to see if it is genuine. The line "With old friends and former foes, we will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the specter of a warming planet" may signal a change in the United State's stand in environmental conservation as previously they used to be dragging their feet in ratifying some treaties related to climate change.


He's different: I know some high profile left handers - but President Obama is set to be the most powerful lefty. (Picture source: CNN.com)

The line regarding government responsibility is quite relevant, to quote "The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works -- whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified. Where the answer is yes, we intend to move forward. Where the answer is no, programs will end. And those of us who manage the public's dollars will be held to account -- to spend wisely, reform bad habits, and do our business in the light of day -- because only then can we restore the vital trust between a people and their government." unquote.

A plus point in many ways is the new website for the White House was instantly launched - much more better than the previous website

Queen Elizabeth (souce of image USAtoday.com)

I look forward to see what President Obama has in store for us, the citizens of the world, whether he is just a marvellous orator or he will be able to deliver America's hopes and deliver his promises to champion world peace. It is too early now. But there is hope and this can be seen when he walked out of his armoured protected car with the First Lady along Pennsylvania Avenue and walked a few blocks in the open together with the Vice President. Courageous? or headache for the Secret Service? So for now I will be putting Queen Elizabeth on the top liest for most memorable lines delivered during her Christmas 2008 message ".... that people who seem most contented and fulfilled are the people who have lived the most outgoing and unselfish lives -- the kind of people who are generous with their talents or their time ... those who use their prosperity or good fortune for the benefit of others. When life seems hard, the courageous do not lie down and accept defeat. Instead, they are all the more determined to struggle for a better future, I think we have a huge amount to learn from individuals such as these." Compared to President Obama, her Royal Highness has ruled the Commonwealth nations so these are words of experience. The President may have read the Queen's speech? Once again, my congratulations to President Obama.

Comments

Pn Hamidah said…
Did he mention anything on the Israelis military aggression in Gaza? And withdrawal of US forces from Iraq?..." know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman, and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and that we are ready to lead once more"..Congrats then Mr. President Sir Barack Obama, The Commander In-Chief stepping into the dawn of new changes in the midst of world economic and military crisis.As the citizens of the world let us all pray and give him the chance to be that great symbol of change though beg me to differ with you Mr.DJ sir...My interest is as deep as Tun DR M.Thanks for this great entry that stimulates my humble and innocent mind.Have a good day.
Oppss...i prepared a comment bit it was too long, longer than my blog entry :) we all have the same aspirations and interest as Tun Dr. M but i shall agree on one thing. Tun Dr. M had his chance and we did well in the international arena under him. Now i believe its Prez Obama's turn and that same question hangs over our head... Can he? Is he for real? Did the americans put him there as a camouflage? Let us see and thank you for tickling that mind again.
Pn Hamidah said…
Mr.Desmond,
Thanks for the unexpected response sir..my earlier comment was not meant to challenge your views but given on good faith from my own viewpoint and perspective on US Presidency.I guess I should respect and understand your stand better on issues related to your official and social responsibilities towards the livelihood of those rural folks at large.Another major cause for concern coming from an experienced and loyal serving administrator that served the government of the day should be highly commendable.Thanks again.
Agen Hamidah - as you can see the President's inauguration has induced us to think and discuss which is good for the thinking minds. Do not worry - I welcome your point of view as it offers that 'other perspective'. some comments I get from others are non too kind than yours which i have not approved. The name labels sent to my comments box is not good for viewing :) thus your comments do give a refresher view. My longer comments was intended for one whose nick was YM whose comment which labeled me an %#3@8! and a xx#&* - it would not pass the Malaysian censor board :)
BorneoAngler said…
He love fishing?