Feeling Vaguely Patriotic...

Those of you who know me well, will know I am politically uninvolved. A registered Democrat, I was happy that Obama was elected. The historical significance of the moment was not lost on me. But living overseas, I observed the elections like I observe my closest friend's children who live in the US - from a distance, knowing that they are special, significant people, but not really feeling close in any meaningful way...a sort of curious observation.

So imagine my surprise when running on the treadmill during my morning workout in Singapore. I was moved to tears by watching the innauguration coverage on CNN. Seeing the masses in crowded into the Washington mall, seeing the wonder and elation on the faces in the crowd, feeling the energy as the oath was taken - it provoked a most unexpected response. Relief, joy, hope....and possibily even something patriotic??? If my response is this, I can only imagine the energy in the US.

Beyond the historical significance, I see around me every day, people's perceptions of America changing. There is a belief and a hope for the future not only for the US, but also for the world in these dark times. For the first time in many years, I am feeling vaguely patriotic! No longer embarrased by the world press. No longer shielding the cover of my passport in airports. And shedding the sheepish self-consciousness of being a world-traveling American who mumbles their country of origin in overseas introductions.

Having personally endured 9/11 in NYC, BKK riots / protests / coups, and then observing other terrible events and crimes against humanity on the world stage, I am proud to see something so positively momentous happen in my lifetime.