Getting ready for change

Here in the States the big news is of course the changing of the governing powers. I am glad to be seeing a change in the administration. The excitement is building as we get nearer to the Inauguration next week. I must admit I am pretty excited about the new President and am hopeful that his words will be followed by actions that confirm the rhetoric from his campaign. I will pray for the President and the members of his administration, much like I prayed for the Bush administration.

Now I do not feel much sadness at the change, in fact I am glad that the Bush administration is “out” of power, but I do feel great sadness at the opportunities that were lost over the last eight years for real positive change to have taken place. I have to ask is the world safer then it was? Are we more secure then we were do to any of the actions taken? Are people in this country and around the world closer to achieving peace and understanding? My answer is unfortunately a big NO.

Do I think that one person can make that much of a difference in the lives of so many? Yes is my answer! I am hopeful that my new President will be able to bridge many of the gulfs that surround us here in the US but also those around the world. I am hopeful that people will find a renewed commitment to making a difference in the lives of those around them, in a positive way and yes I am hoping for a kinder, gentler world in which to live.

Will all of this be done by the actions of one man? No, it takes all of us to commit to change and to be willing to work harder and longer to make change happen. I am. For the first time in a very long time, hopeful that people will be able to work together a bit better, listen actively, and keep an open mind to what others are saying. We do not have to agree, but we do need to be willing to find common ground in which we can live, work, and play. I pray that we can find those places and that our actions, thoughts, words and deeds can reflect a new sense of purpose and that the Spirit will move among us, guiding us as we work for peace.