Today is January 20, 2021.
Today the United States of America is taking a deep, cleansing breath, then swearing in a new President. It’s a historic moment for many reasons.
This morning I watched as our sitting President, Donald Trump, left the White House for the last time. I have to tell you, it made my heart swell. Not only am I excited for this new season of change, but like most Americans, the sheer magnitude of Inauguration Day leaves me in awe.
Our nation, though somewhat tarnished at present, has been a shining jewel of how to transfer power peacefully. No coups, no fighting, and none of the other nasty ways new regimes come into power. I’ll admit that last week had me a bit worried, but this morning looks so serene.
Looks can be deceiving.
As our nation wearily stumbles into this day, there is so much division, so much pain. Our next President, Joe Biden, will have a full plate of complicated problems to contend with, made even worse by those actively hoping he will fail. He will be much like his predecessor in this way.
As I sit and watch our nation prepare for this day, I am warily hopeful. Although I am comforted to see this day proceed with dignity, my Libertarian brain is concerned about the cost of our recent turmoil, both literally and figuratively. Our national debt is spiraling out of control, and with talks about more spending every day, I fear we are reaching a financial cliff. Added to that is the specter of looming “national security“ measures to protect our nation from domestic terror. Hopefully, these measures will be tempered in an attempt to heal the ever widening rift that has been festering like a boil for quite some time.
But, even as I acknowledge our failures as a nation, I can still see our greatness. Whether we survive as a nation or not, our foundation was laid with great hope.
Hope for a better life
Freedom from persecution, both political and religious
Hope for the future
The promises of freedom and hope still bring people to America and stir the hearts of Americans already here. May we never forget the things that make us truly great while working hard to make it great for all people. We are abundantly blessed.
May God look kindly on America today and bless us into the future.
