Quotes from the Inauguration

Some quotes from today's inauguration speech that I think are worth considering for any person or group of people seeking to make a difference in the lives of the poor, the sick, the widow, the orphan, or the downtrodden (or for that matter anyone chasing a dream).

"On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.

we understand that greatness is never a given. It must be earned. Our journey has never been one of shortcuts or settling for less. It has not been the path for the fainthearted -- for those who prefer leisure over work, or seek only the pleasures of riches and fame. Rather, it has been the risk-takers, the doers, the makers of things -- some celebrated, but more often men and women obscure in their labor -- who have carried us up the long, rugged path toward prosperity and freedom.

(we must remember) what free men and women can achieve when imagination is joined to common purpose, and necessity to courage.

...(they knew) our power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please. Instead, they knew that our power grows through its prudent use; our security emanates from the justness of our cause, the force of our example, the tempering qualities of humility and restraint.

...the spirit of service; a willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves.

Our challenges may be new. The instruments with which we meet them may be new. But those values upon which our success depends -- hard work and honesty, courage and fair play, tolerance and curiosity, loyalty and patriotism -- these things are old. These things are true.

This is the source of our confidence -- the knowledge that God calls on us to shape an uncertain destiny.

Let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested, we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back, nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations."

Barack Obama