Let me wax political....

I and my kids watched the inauguration today and I kept reminding them that we are so fortunate to live in a land where the transition of power is peaceful, and even graceful. I was so moved as I watched the entire event unfold. As silly as it may sound, as former Pres. & Mrs. Bush embraced the Pres. & Mrs. Obama and climbed into the helicopter, emotion swept over me - no, I did not sit here and cry (I'm not that wrapped up in politics) - but I just felt such a thankfulness that as our former President flew away in the helicopter, no guns were fired, no rioting broke out in the street, just a hug and a wave goodbye. We take it so for granted, and yet we are truly blessed.

While I have my concerns about executive orders Pres. Obama will create and laws he will push for (check out http://www.fightfoca.com/ for more info), I am thankful that as he said in his inaugural address, "A man whose father less than 60 years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath." Our nation has come a long way in recognizing that "all people are created equal." For this, I rejoice and am grateful.

I'm thankful that Pastor Rick Warren prayed in Jesus name. I'm thankful he did not bow to pressure, but prayed to and through the very Name that gives us the freedoms we celebrate today.

Finally, I'm thankful that I heard our US Marine Band play "Amazing Grace" before the inauguration began. As the hymn began, I turned to my kids and said, "Guys Listen!" Lucas then piped up, "Mom! This is the song by Newton! I love this song!"

It reminded me of what I am really most thankful for:

"Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found
Was blind, but now I see!"