Whoopie! President Obama

[ellen_datlow]

I was just about to go to lunch with Gahan Wilson (who was picking me up at my apt) when I realized that I was going to MISS THE SPEECH!!! I got downstairs and we talked about the disappointment. However, as we meandered down Hudson Street looking for a place to eat (now that our regular joint, Florent, is gone), we got to Dublin 6 which announced in small signs outside--come and have a drink/food and watch the inauguration. How could we resist? We didn't. I wanted their Irish breakfast but they only serve it on weekends (I forgot)but made do and arrived JUST in time to see Obama sworn in and start his speech. We and the other patrons applauded loudly and I was just about in tears. And worried the whole time that something bad would happen. However, the overview of the crowds of people attending the inauguration almost made me forget my fears.

He made me and Gahan especially happy by giving a shout out, not only to Christians, Muslims, and Jews but to non-believers. We think this is the first time a president ever did that and it was a breath of fresh air. Thank you, President Obama.

Comments

[vee-ecks.livejournal.com]

This atheist was grateful for that, too. And yeah, I'm pretty sure that is the first time ever.

[wolfsilveroak.livejournal.com]

This is the first Inaugeration I've ever watched. I missed the Speech, but I understand that it'll be rebroadcast. }:)

[n5red.livejournal.com]

You know Gahan Wilson? Wow, I am impressed!

[doortoriver.livejournal.com]

It was a FABULOUS inauguration. In fact - at the risk of sounding sincere but cliche - Obama really managed to represent the heart of this country.

[satyrblade.livejournal.com]

Never before in my life have I witnessed so many Americans so proud to share our common heritage... certainly not within the last seven years.

It's gonna be a rough four years, but we're off to a great start.

[kylecassidy.livejournal.com]

What a name. I was a hug fan of Matthew Looney growing up in the 70's. It's nice to know he's still lunching. And now I see there's a movie about him. What a joyous thing.

I ran around this morning photographing people clustered in front of televisions.

[mattkressel.livejournal.com]

I was writing and missed the damn speech cause I lost track of time. Thank goodness for the internet and streaming video!

[albogdan.livejournal.com]

I've never felt that good listening to a presidential speech. Couldn't stop smiling.

[jimvanpelt.livejournal.com]

Lunch with Gahan Wilson. That's cool!

[mssrcrankypants.livejournal.com]

And worried the whole time that something bad would happen.

I felt this, too--a kind of clenching in the gut, even as I was being buoyed by the wonderful rhetoric and powerful delivery. And I'm afraid I'm going to experience some of that fear every time he makes a big public appearance. I hope it subsides.

[al-zorra.livejournal.com]

We did the S.O.B.'s Obama Lunch and Celebration with some friends, hosted by the owner, who is someone we have known for many years now. Somehow we didn't expect S.O.B.'s to be packed to the gills. Maybe because we always go there at night? Fortunately the owner gave us a table even though we didn't have reservations. We didn't think we'd need them. Who besides us would go to S.O.B.'s at 11 AM?

It. Was. Amazing.

Such diversity. So many people I didn't necessarily know but recognized as we've encountered each other for years in the street and in local stores. Some of our friends and neighbors from our building were there too.

I've never watched an Inauguration before. For one thing I was in class or working. For another, I have lived without television most of my life. And with Those Who Are Forever Gone (But. Not. Punished. Yet.), there is no way I could have stood to watch. We are in a different age for sure.

S.O.B.'s is hosting a party all day and night too -- free, no admission.

Love, C.

[0ccam.livejournal.com]

Gahan Wilson the cartoonist in Playboy (and elsewhere)? That Gahan Wilson?

Next time you see him tell him that someone on LJ really really really likes the one he did about the fortunes in fortune cookies that depressed everyone to the point of suicide.

I appreciate the inclusion...

[themadblonde]

but am no more thrilled @ being called a non-believer (I believe in many things) than I was @ being called a person-of-no-faith (recent attempt @ inclusion by a Rev. @ a Matthew Sheppard vigil). However, it's a step, & a step in a new direction for the faith-based majority, so I try to take it in the spirit in which it is meant, & keep up my efforts @ education & enlightenment.