Well, that pretty well sums up my experience in Washington. Just before I sign off and end this blog I want to say a couple things in reflection of my experience and thoughts.
Some of you may ask why this was such a special and monumental experience for me, considering that I am not American and really have little or no ties to the US. Other than the obvious - he is the first minority President of the US, he is a very young President, and Canada is highly dependent on the US and has strong ties with the US - why does this experience matter?
Well, when I see ordinary people doing extraordinary things it inspires me. When I look at Barack Obama's background, his struggles, his vision and his perseverance, this inspires me. Obama success reminds me to always pursue your dreams and fight to make them come true, despite whatever obstacles may be in your way and despite the cynics and discouragement you encounter. As Beyonce said at the Inaugural Youth Ball, "Obama inspires me to be smarter, be better, do more, get more involved and instigate change."
Lastly, Inauguration Day was particularly special because over 2 million people, from around the country and world, gathered for one common cause with hope, excitement and inspiration in their hearts. On this day, there was nothing but unity, smiles, laughter, and hope amongst the crowd regardless of race, age, sex, background etc. All stigmas and prejudices were left behind as one man managed to unite millions of people on this day.
In conclusion, thank you for reading my blog and thank you to everyone you made this trip possible. I hope that in reading this you managed to take a little something away from it – possibly hope, inspiration and the drive to excel in whatever endeavours you choose.
Some of you may ask why this was such a special and monumental experience for me, considering that I am not American and really have little or no ties to the US. Other than the obvious - he is the first minority President of the US, he is a very young President, and Canada is highly dependent on the US and has strong ties with the US - why does this experience matter?
Well, when I see ordinary people doing extraordinary things it inspires me. When I look at Barack Obama's background, his struggles, his vision and his perseverance, this inspires me. Obama success reminds me to always pursue your dreams and fight to make them come true, despite whatever obstacles may be in your way and despite the cynics and discouragement you encounter. As Beyonce said at the Inaugural Youth Ball, "Obama inspires me to be smarter, be better, do more, get more involved and instigate change."
Lastly, Inauguration Day was particularly special because over 2 million people, from around the country and world, gathered for one common cause with hope, excitement and inspiration in their hearts. On this day, there was nothing but unity, smiles, laughter, and hope amongst the crowd regardless of race, age, sex, background etc. All stigmas and prejudices were left behind as one man managed to unite millions of people on this day.
In conclusion, thank you for reading my blog and thank you to everyone you made this trip possible. I hope that in reading this you managed to take a little something away from it – possibly hope, inspiration and the drive to excel in whatever endeavours you choose.
Safia,
ReplyDeleteI am glad you were able to attend the historical event - I am sure your blog entry will inspire many of us :)
Best,
Shalu
Thanks Safia I did not know that you write so well. It definately made me think as how to pursue my dreams and not to sit idle.
ReplyDeleteFarooq