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(Originally posted January 20th, 2009)
 The picture is, of course, of newly
-inaugurated President Barack
Obama and Michelle dancing at
the first of the many inaugural balls
they are expected to attend.
What is remarkable about this
picture is that it could easily have
been taken fifty or perhaps even a
hundred years ago, except for the
race of the two people shown.
For Americans of African descent
, this picture must be a great
validation of all their struggle and
suffering. For others, this should be an eye-opener.
Surprise! Everyone can enjoy this elegant, historically rooted kind of dance; everyone can
look up to the United States' new President and his First Lady. As President Obama said in
his inaugural speech, dark times may lie ahead. But we can always look back to this image of
grace and affection, and no matter who you are or what your political beliefs, you can
recollect that there is always a place in our hearts for the occasion of pure celebration, guided
by good sense and a sincere desire for friendship. Who knows? Perhaps even ballroom
dancing will have a place now in the hearts of young people; it is no longer necessary to make
excuses for the morals or incompetence of our President.
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