01/21/2021
On January 20, 2021 President Joe Biden, after taking the oath of office, delivered an impeccable inaugural speech and gave the nation and the world a reason to exhale and rejoice. The nation's capital, now cleansed, was about to be renewed. There was bleakness from the absence of traditional crowds and the heavy presence of military troops. In the days leading up to 01/20/2021 threats of violence nationwide had to be taken seriously. All 50 state capitols had to be fortified. The National Mall and Capitol more so. Of course, the pandemic too, ruled out tradition. But creative minds produced a patriotic substitution of adequate compensation and as we watched the "coronation" of the new leadership we couldn't miss the beauty of it all. Physically, emotionally, conceptually. The sea of flags to represent absent citizens, aerial visuals of vibrant patriotic displays in front of the Capitol, and the solemn audience of members of Congress, Biden/Harris extended family and past presidents (minus the most recent) succeeded in marking the beginning of a bright and hopeful chapter.
The next day everyone was talking about Amanda Gorman. The 22 year old spirited young poet dressed in bright yellow who delivered a heartfelt original poem titled "The Hill We Climb".
When day comes we ask ourselves,
where can we find light in this never-ending shade?
From those first lines she mesmerized us, gave us all goosebumps.
Everyone also gushed about the fireworks that brought the historic day to a close. President Joe Biden. Vice President Kamala Harris. Change is upon us. A peaceful transition was accomplished.
How sweet it is to wake up to the words "President Biden ..." on NPR's Morning Edition. Today, his first full day at work the new president signed executive orders to undo Trump era laws. And as the day progressed it was the Covid situation that took center stage. The best minds, the most respected experts are on the team that will steer the Biden/Harris pandemic approach. Dr. Fauci is back at the lead with a platform at the government level to address the nation's concerns.
That's not the only good news on this topic. New infections in the nation and our state have been declining in the past week. Kinks and hurdles regarding administering of vaccinations are being addressed. Biden's goal of 100 million doses in a 100 days is now viewed as modest. There's talk of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine which is likely to become available in a month or so. Today, Daryl will get his first shot of the Moderna vaccine. As an educator he is part of the essential work force. UCSB has its own clinic to administer shots for its employees. A big day for us!
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