The Obama Presidency Quarterly, Winter 2009 Issue:
President-elect Barack Obama has not even been inaugurated yet, but there is already controversy surrounding the January 20 event. The controversy stems from Obama's decision to have conservative Saddleback Church pastor lead the inaugural prayer. This has prompted criticism from individuals on all sides of the socio-political spectrum.
Well, here's my opinion regarding the matter: I'm pleased with Obama's selection of Warren. For starters, Obama, a religious moderate, will prove that he will be a president who genuinely respects the role of faith in American life and that he will listen to those with differing viewpoints. Secondly, Warren's acceptance of Obama's invitation will illustrate the fact that while there may be divisions amongst conservative, liberal, and moderate Christians, as well as those who practice other belief systems, we are all Americans who deserve to have our unique voices heard and that our elected officials and religious leaders alike recognize this. Thirdly, this will show the electorate that the incoming administration wants to "bury the hatchet," so to speak, with those who have been critical of its leader in order to work together to deal with the serious issues facing this nation. Finally, and most importantly, having diverse religious and political views represented at the inauguration will symbolize the desire for unity and solidarity that most Americans feel.
Our wonderful country is obviously facing difficult, uncertain times. In order to get through them, we have to put aside our differences and give this new president and his cabinet the chance to do what needs to be done, which is to ensure that-- as Obama said in his 2004 Democratic National Convention keynote speech-- we are "not a blue America, not a red America, but a United States of America." This is the only solution, for, as the other Illinois politician who became commander-in-chief during a tumultuous period said, "A house divided against itself cannot stand."
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