today barack obama is being sworn in as the president of the united states of america.

alot is being made of obama-mania and righfully so.  we can talk about the historical impact of having obama elected, we can kick bush in the ass on his way out, and we can get caught up in the fact that “tons of youth are watching the inaguration on mtv.”  it is an exciting time – that is for sure.  but all of the talk of hope, change, history should lie within ourselves…shouldn’t it?

it’s incredible to see history change right in front of you.  it’s an incredible testament to hard work, commitment, and the drive to succeed.  obama’s story is one of struggle and hard work.  i’ve been following blogs, facbeook notes, and general conversations about the obama inaguration and i’m floored with what i’m hearing.  just as a heads up – obama isn’t magic…he’s just a dude that’s getting a job promotion.

over the last few days i’ve heard people talk about hope and change.  i’ve heard people talk about obama helping the united states pick themselves up out of a crumbled economy, a broken national spirit, and a disasterous recent history in foreign policy.  while he might be able to make a dent in regards to these things let’s remember he’s taken over “a crack house” not a “mansion.”  and rather than focusing on the change he’s going to bring – what change are you bringing?

it’s okay by me to be excited about obama.  it’s okay to tell young people that “dreams come true” and obama is proof.  but please, don’t lose the real message – be the change and hope that you want and feel.  what are YOU doing locally?  how do YOU contribute to both the macro and micro cultural environment that you’re a part of?  what is possible for YOU?  how do YOU effect/affect others?

YOU be the change.  YOU be the hope for others.  YOU change the world.  let obama enjoy his new home office – i bet he has some redecorating, painting, and rearranging of furniture to do.