Wait - I don't mean it really. Allow me to explain. I had the deep honor of watching the history making inauguration today with a Kindergarten class from my neighborhood school. When I entered the classroom, to be completely honest, I wasn't thinking too much about today and what was happening in Washington D.C. I knew I would be able to catch up on the festivities when I got home through TV, Radio and the Internet (especially through my friends on FB). I was most concerned about what the school and the class were doing so that I could evaluate it for my little girl.
However, I had the superb luck to enter a classroom in which the teacher realized that today, a day in which our generation will speak for the rest of our lives, a day in which we all should be stopping our daily activities to provide the attention and the dedication that is so deserved, a day in which television is ok in the classroom, a day in which the subject matter is important to all of us, especially the bright, eager young minds of kindergartners, today is a day that is so special that it transcends the importance of reading, writing and 'rithmatic. Hats off to Ms. Baumann for allowing the children and allowing me to partake in what can only be described as a monumental day in the history of the United States of America, but more importantly, the world.
My visit began with a circle that brought tears to my eyes. We hadn't yet entered inauguration mode although the tv was quietly playing in the background. I learned about what each child had done that weekend and watched in awe as several would sign the appropriate phrase for "connection" meaning that they too had done something similar. I became introduced to each one as they greeted the student to either side with a morning salutation that demanded eye contact. I tried to find my place as they quietly went in groups to perform their jobs during their work cycles; each dutifully accepting the challenge of each task while still seeking his/her individuality in its completion. I was re-assured as I watched these young children go about their work on the academic principles upon which we rely on our schools and our teachers to impart. I was humbled on this day to see the respect, commitment, ethic and virtue that makes our country great illuminated in the actions of every child in the classroom and so much re-enforced by the teacher and her aide.
As 10 a.m. approached, snack was distributed and we all came together in front of the TV. When Ms. Baumann asked what we were doing, one child promptly responded "It's Politics Day" and Ms. Baumann elaborated in a massaging manner with a syllabic clapping of "In-aug-ur-a-tion" day. "Yes that is five syllables. Very good."
I have to say that the Cheetos were probably the most interesting topic for the children that morning. I noticed several comparing shapes and all garnering the beautiful orange mustache that can only come from truly partaking in the finger licking, lip smacking enjoyment of a bag of Cheetos. However, a calm ensued, be it short lived, as the President took his oath. It is my guess that all of them will remember Politics Day and the true monumental achievement and hope that exists for us, the proud citizens of the United States of America. Thank you Ms. Baumann for allowing me to experience history in a location that I truly believe was the most fitting - among the beautiful children of today and the leaders of tomorrow.
Politics Day, The Inauguration of Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States of America, January 20, 2009
It will be taught for infinity as one of the great moments of time,
A day in which the land of opportunity was again defined,
It is so much more than the first African American President,
Although that in and of itself to history will be lent,
It is about a man who has restored faith in a country evolving,
During a time in the world where many things are revolving,
It is a day in which politics seemed inconsequential,
A day in which Americans, regardless of religion, politics or belief, recognized again our potential,
A day in which we once again were reminded of the virtue of "the land of the free"
A day that we all hope the realization of our dreams we will see,
And by "our", it is not meant mine or yours,
But those of our collective which opens the greatest of doors,
"Hope, unity, faith, mindful, grateful"...words that inspire were spoken today,
As well as a promise to keep evil, terror, greed, thoughtlessness at bay,
A true leader stepped forward and on that we should all be able to agree,
Barack Obama, we stand with you and are ready to continue making history!
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