New Beginnings: Inauguration 2009

So here we stand, with the inauguration of president-elect Barack Obama just hours away and I can honestly say that I am proud to be an American. On my way back home from campus, I noticed a few small things: never have I ever seen the city a) filled with soooo many people and b) so clean! I've never rode on the DC Metro, a transit system that I've rode for about ten years, and seen so many smiling, happy faces. It is truly a great feeling, to see all of these people gathered in the Nation's Capitol to welcome a New Beginning. I've honestly never witnessed a greater feeling of unity within this city and it truly amazes me. :)

Dear 2009,

You've finally arrived. After a long wait, you're finally here. 2008 brought me through a lot. But with every experience comes a lesson. 2008 taught me who I can trust and who really cares. It taught me that not everyone is in your life for the same reason: some people are there to reveal something about yourself. It taught me to live life on my terms, and not be concerned with what others think. Laughter is truly the best medicine. Life throws so many twists and turns, it's almost impossible to plan for everything: the best way is to just go along for the ride.

So to you, 2009, to you I say welcome to a year of new beginnings. 2009, you will not take advantage of me. Say hello to a strong young woman who knows her limits. 2009, I will not be broken again.

“Each time we face our fear, we gain strength, courage, and confidence in the doing.”