Obama: Words into Action

First, no matter how many times I listen to Obama speak, I totally enjoy his eloquence and ability to get to the issue. After eight years of George W. Bush wrestling with his inability to produce a coherent thought (okay, I exaggerate), here comes Obama who not only recognizes the complexity of the problems that the US faces, but analyzes them and (hopefully) is able to propose a solution befitting the problem. What a contrast with Bush who saw everything in black and white.

Second, after only two days as President, Obama has hit the ground running. In less than 48 hours, he has addressed Gitmo (to be closed), lobbyist (restrictions put in place), salaries for high-ranking staff (frozen) and most recently the new (dream) team to be leading the State Department. Looks like Obama is walking the talk so far.

Third is a general observation after the inauguration. What impressed me, yet again, as someone who was observing from a distance, was the fluidity of the transition of power. It was basically Obama and Bush walking shoulder to shoulder after the oath of office was taken. For dozens of nations elections and transition of power are anything but peaceful and orderly. In the States two men who disagree on so many issues gave everybody a lesson in democracy. No revolutions, no violence, no manipulations. It is a government of the people, by the people, for the people and it works.