This time instead of shock, we have comfort; instead of fear, we have peace; instead of doubt, we have hope. We have passed our greatest test in modern times. And we are whole, for now.
The day before, a day full of pomp and circumstance, tradition and ceremony, we inaugurated a new president. We survived the challenge and watched the Tyrant slink away in disgrace. We completed the peaceful transition of power, though indelibly stained in the books of history, under security no previous inauguration has ever sat beneath. Two weeks ago we watched a violent insurrection against the very principles that made yesterday happen, uncertain of the outcome. Those that would destroy our country to get their way rather then share it were defeated. This time. We must not let our guard down.
The day after I feel like a New Year just opened in front us. It's a new day in Washington, the clouds have lifted, and we can start to heal the nation. I know everything is not fixed and we have a long road ahead. I know these troubles, and these people, won't go away over night. But I also know the hope I felt 12 years ago, at Barack Obama’s first inauguration, is back. That we have set our feet on the right path again, stepped away from institutionalized injustice and sanctioned prejudice. Like then, it is tempered with the knowledge that there is no magic wand to wave away the troubles. We are still in the midst of a pandemic. We are still on the precipice of an economic cliff. There are still dark shadows on the edges of our nation, waiting for a chance to rise again and threaten who and what we are.
On this day after we must be vigilant. Our Democracy is fragile, more so than we could have imagined a month ago. It must be tended and cared for and nurtured. Because if we take it for granted, the shadows will win.
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