Yesterday was a great day in the history of America.  A great day to be an American.

A great celebration of the power of our democracy.  A peaceful transfer of power between two people that have the most power in the world.

A great celebration of civil rights progress.  A celebration that it is possible for anyone to become president of the United States.  In 2007 I would have said it was impossible for an African-American with the name Barack Hussein Obama to be elected president.  In 2008 it happened.  America has come a long way. 

A great speech delivered by a great orator.   But I am not really sure if many people heard what President Obama said. I don't think they wanted to hear the words.  They were celebrating.  The words were sobering.  Change is yet to come to America.

What I heard President Obama say is that we needed to stop acting like children.  Children label things so they can understand the world.  Adults should not.  The labels of Democratic or Republican.  Conservative or liberal.  Rich, middle class, or poor.  They need to go away.  Yesterday there was a disturbing mixture of hatred and glee directed toward George W. Bush.  It's childish poor sportsmanship. Stop it.

What I heard President Obama say is that the people that take risks, the people that do things, the people that make things are the people that make a difference in the United States.  I agree.  And the United States can not take away the incentives for individuals to make this country great.

What I heard President Obama say is that each citizen has a responsibility to this great country of opportunity.  A responsibility to work hard.  A responsibility to be fair and honest.  A responsibility to be tolerant. 

What I heard President Obama say is that the greatness of our country must
be earned. That we all have a responsibility to make it happen. It takes work.  Hard work.  And sacrifices.  Americans did not want to hear that yesterday.  I hope in the days ahead they will. 

America is a great country.  A country that can adapt.  President Obama provides an opportunity for renewal and change.  My hope is that Obama makes a great president.  I hope for real change.