Despite being cozy and warm watching today's celebrations in Washington D.C. on my TV this morning, I felt compelled to clear the snow off my car and drive to downtown Stamford and join fellow citizens at the public library where the inauguration ceremony was being shown on the auditorium movie screen.
The room was full--standing room only and everyone appeared moved by the event. We listened in attentive silence, clapped and cheered as history shifted its axis, then stood and sang the national anthem together as the ceremony came to a close. It was a wonderful way to experience this day. Several shared their story with me and enjoyed hearing a snippet of mine as we recognized how clearly we come from such diverse backgrounds yet all our heart's desire peace, opportunity and community. God bless President Obama and give us all the courage and wisdom to work together toward needed changes that will heal our nation.
By the time the ceremony was over, the snow had melted off this statue of Abraham Lincoln which stands in downtown Stamford's Veteran's Park. It is a replica of a statue by artist Borghlum which was donated to the city over 20 years ago. It represents the quiet moments President Lincoln was known to spend sitting alone in his garden after reading the lists of fallen/wounded soldiers during the war. When the statue was presented to Stamford, I was invited to sing at the press conference gathered for the unveiling. I sang "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" and then "God Bless America" as the statue was revealed.
Very special moments. Who knew then that this day would really come? Thank you God!
