A Day of Travel

Sunday morning -

Our flight was scheduled for 6:45, which meant that we had to leave very early for the airport.  it seems that the importance of this event meets me everywhere.  On the shuttle to the airport I was asked about my trip and its purpose.   When the driver found out I was going to the inaugural, he became animated and asked lots of questions.  The interesting thing was that before I could answer, another gentleman began talking about the election and its significance.  He was a Afghanistan immigrant and was delighted to see an African American elected president.  He spoke with strong conviction of how wonderful the US was to be able to elect a president who was not from a wealthy background and had political family heritage to lean on.  he commented that this could happen only in America.  As I sat and watched the dialogue between these two men, I realized how this was an example of how this election had changed America.  I did not need to say anything.  It was said for me eloquently.

My ride to Chicago and then to Philadelphia proved to be a very emotional one for me.  Interestingly, I had not shed a tear after the election like so many of my friends.  I understood the significance of this election and felt great joy.  However, as I sat on the plane, thousands of miles in the air, I became overwhelmed with joy, pain and pride.  The election of the first African American has become real and deep for me.  While there will be millions watching the swearing, I can only imagine the millions of invisible ones witnessing this experience and weeping with joy and pain for the may years of struggle.  All the ancestors will witness this event and the importance of this weighed heavily on me on the plane ride and I wept.

Since landing, I have met so many who are making the same journey to the Capitol.  Many have no tickets to any special events and are here just to "feel" and witness the experience.  The old and young, black and white, rich and poor are here to celebrate the occasion and to savor his historic moment that will be shared with their children and their children's children.  

Clearly the joy, pride and excitement is here!  Tomorow, after a good nights rest, I will travel to the Capitol to get my tickets.

Dr. Shirley Weber

Dr. Shirley Weber