Witnessing history truly has its bittersweet moments. Today, January 21, millions tuned in on the observance of Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday to watch President Barack Obama be sworn into office for the second and final time. While many onlookers reminisced on the past four years, others thought about the past 50 years; an achievement once a dream, now a reality.

“We have always understood that when times change, so must we; that fidelity to our founding principles requires new responses to new challenges; that preserving our individual freedoms ultimately requires collective action,” said President Obama.

“‘Faith in America’s Future,’ the theme for the 57th inaugural ceremonies resonated in the hearts of many Americans today, commemorating the perseverance and unity that has long been a staple of our country, comradery and individuality. The past was linked to the future; challenges made clear upfront, but most important, Obama showed transparency demonstrating political astuteness and forcefulness.

The thrill numerous Americans had four years ago, returned today. A renewed hope and sense of pride swept over this nation, returning promises of a strengthened economy, equality for all and a glimpse of faith in America’s future never before proclaimed.The completion of a first term in our rearview, President Obama has made certain, his second term is about reclaiming ‘Our America’.

“My fellow Americans, we are made for this moment and we will seize it so long as we seize it together.”

– Barack Obama