good vibrations

I attended the recent inauguration of the 44th President of the United States. What an amazing experience. Of course, it was exciting to witness history up close and personal. However, what truly amazed me and touched me was how the individuals in attendance at the event acted towards each other - towards complete strangers.

We waited for hours in lines. It was extremely crowded. It was bitterly cold. It was quite confusing to know where you were supposed to go and what was happening next. Just getting to the Mall was a challenge. All factors that would typically inspire people to get frustrated or be pushy and rude. But this was not the case. Not at the Inauguration. Not at the concert the weekend before.

People, complete strangers, were looking out for each other, were helping each other out. We all felt some bond that we had each others' backs. Not simply because we all, in theory, have the same political views and our leader won the race. Far from it. It's like we all felt responsible. We had a reason to care again.

Individuals came from all corners of the country to witness the event. And we somehow were all aware that we all had different reasons for being there. That we all came from different perspectives and experiences. But that didn't matter. Those days at the Capitol, we were all there to be Americans and to celebrate what this country truly means - that every voice counts and every person can make a difference.

Believe me, I know how idyllic and sentimental this all sounds. But after hours of standing in the cold and the absolute confusion that broke out when the gates were finally opened, and yet, the person in line behind you makes sure you get through security first because that's what's fair and right, I don't know, it's easy to believe the best in people again.

A friend I went with asked at one point, "What could possibly explain how unanimously positive everyone is right now? How can you explain that this is even happening - a junior senator winning the highest office?"

My answer is this: there's something about his image and something in his rhetoric that empowers people. He's no god. I don't think people truly see him that way. It's not him everyone is putting their hopes and beliefs in - it's in ourselves. It's been a long time since someone has held us accountable or challenged us to be better and to rise above the adversities we face in life. And I gotta say, it was exhilarating to feel that energy and spirit in a crowd of millions.

So no matter your political beliefs, this is a chance for all of us. To step up and take responsibility. For what we each believe in. To stop blaming whoever is in power for our problems, and instead, take action ourselves. Hopefully looking out for our neighbors in the process. If one man's speech can bring the best out in everyone, imagine what we can do when we actively seek to be the best we can.