The peaceful transfer of power is beautiful. Always.
Let me say that again: always.
I do not mean to in any way diminish the emotion of those who are less than thrilled with our new President. Liking or disliking has nothing to do with my point. Eight years ago I sat amidst a liberal audience. On Friday, I sat amidst a conservative audience. My reaction was the same: I was awed and humbled by the peaceful transfer of power…
… which is…
… always…
… beautiful.
My favorite moment is always right after the swearing-in ceremony…
The new President and his predecessor exit the other side of the building together.
At the top of the stone steps stand congressional representatives from both parties.
And then yesterday, down the steps came the two presidents — side by side… red, white, and blue.
The new Vice President and his predecessor followed.
The spouses came next, via military escort, helping guide those heels down the plethora of steps.
Then they all paused, as if recognizing the magnitude of the moment.
They paused and bantered and seemingly, genuinely enjoyed one another. While I would have loved to be a fly on a wall or a step or somewhere in the adjacent vicinity, I so wonder what they talked about. But whatever it was, it seemed to be good. They each seemed equally humbled and proud — aware of the uniqueness and beauty.
First the vice presidents and spouses walked away — escorting the old to a limo, waiting to deliver the predecessor to his next position. The new wished the old well; the old wished the new well. There were handshakes and hugs and all those fake kisses. But the moment was dear and sincere.
Then the presidents…
The two and their spouses walked to Marine One, the helicopter escorting the old to his next adventure. And at the end of both his tarmac and tenure, again, the new wished the old well; the old wished the new well. And both thanked one another for their service.
Their partisan loyalties… their emotion… and attitudes… none of it got in the way.
What a wonderful day it is…
… the peaceful transfer of power.
May our eyes be ever able to see what’s beautiful…
Respectfully…
AR