The inauguration was not Obama’s party. I didn’t go to celebrate his policies of change and I didn’t go to affirm his “visions of hope.” I went because it was only the 57th time in world history that power of such magnitude was transferred or reaffirmed peaceably between opposing parties. Men and women who clash everyday about entitlement programs, gun control, climate change, and budget crises sat together on stage taking part in this distinctly American tradition. It was a powerful experience.
I wanted a different man to take the oath of office on the 21st of January. He fought to win this election, but my candidate lost. As I stood in the bitter Washington cold, waiting, I looked at the red, white, and blue boldly piercing the sky. My patriotism didn’t keep me from Obama’s inauguration – it drew me. I didn’t go to honor one man. I went because I believe in preserving my country and what she stands for: liberty for all.
