President Obama Vows to Lead with Understanding than Brute Force

- Obama called for a political truce in Washington to end a culture of “petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn-out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics."
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By Philip Fernando in Los Angeles for Lanka Guardian

(January 21, Los Angeles, Sri Lanka Guardian) That nagging feeling of disbelief finally vanished. Barack Obama grasped the reins of power as the first black person to do so. A generational divide in American politics began in earnest as Obama vowed to lead with understanding rather than with brute force. It was a harsh testament to George W. Bush’s tenure when Obama said "Our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisions — that time has surely passed. Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off and begin the work of remaking America."

Over 2 million participated despite the frigid temperatures and the perceived harshness of the struggle precipitated by Bush who left Washington as one of the nation's most unpopular and divisive presidents, two unfinished wars and the embodiment of economic calamity that swept away many Americans' jobs, savings and homes. Obama's message resonated around the world with his avowed commitment to be embracing, more open to change. "To the Muslim world," Obama said, "we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect."

He did not hesitate to add "To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West — know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy." The warning to the trouble makers inside the country was equally harsh. "To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history, but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist."

Obama called for a political truce in Washington to end a culture of “petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn-out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics." He added that all Americans have roles in rebuilding the nation by renewing the traditions of hard work, honesty and fair play, tolerance, loyalty and patriotism. "What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility, a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character, than giving our all to a difficult task."

This was the first reconciliatory tone expressed by the country the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. Crowds were filled the Mall for an even distant glimpse of the proceedings. Many were just there to imbibe the sense of history. George Bush — following tradition — left a note for Obama in the top drawer of his desk in the Oval Office. White House press secretary Dana Perino said the theme of the message — which Bush wrote on Monday — was similar to what he has said since election night: that Obama is about to begin a "fabulous new chapter" in the United States, and that he wishes him well.

The quest for hope over hurt may take some time thrusting an enormous burden onto the new administration, though polls show Americans are confident Obama is on track to succeed. His approval rating stood over 80 percent. He has cautioned that improvements will take time and that things will get worse before they get better. After four days of celebration, the nation's 56th inauguration day began for Obama and Vice President-elect Joe Biden with a traditional morning worship service at St. John's Episcopal Church, across Lafayette Park from the White House. Bells pealed from the historic church's tower as Obama and his wife, Michelle, arrived five minutes behind schedule.

The festivities and dozens of dinners and Balls will not end until well after midnight, by custom, Obama and his wife, and Biden and his wife, Jill, went directly from church to the White House for coffee with Bush and his wife, Laura. Michelle Obama brought a gift for the outgoing first lady in a white box decorated with a red ribbon. To the dismay of liberals, Obama invited conservative evangelical pastor Rick Warren — an opponent of gay rights — to give the inaugural invocation. There was one sad note as Senator Ted Kennedy was rushed to the emergency as he was lunching with the President and invited guests. - Sri Lanka Guardian