Obama in 2008

There don't seem to be words in summary
Of all the feelings that today has brought
The events that took place beforehand
Or history the many institutions have taught

For it seemed that these readings were one sided
Some topics that one never did see
Omitting what is a reality
That indeed freedom has never been free

I think back to the turbulent sixties
For much of that time I wasn't around
Or the last place in lived in California
The voices, the conversations, the sounds

The area that the family moved to
Fair to say there could be a fuss
For on a deed conveyed a message of intolerance
That some of another color we really don't trust

Memories of the ones I saw as courageous
From a plethora of different places
Ponder if any are still living
And the look that might now be on their faces

My parents who though never to speak it
Still seemed to suggest caution and uncertainty
If we would ever get past prejudice and indifference
What really could this nation be

For they saw what happened to the voices
Who stood up despite obstacles in the road
The violence that gripped humanity
Realizing that there was a heavy load

In a more recent image
Those oh so cold January days
When Iowa was where I was situated
The people that came my way

The lady who was dealing with cancer
With bills that she found tough to pay
Still hopeful for th next generation
That indeed there would be found a brighter day

So the nation has a new page to be written
My only caution while looking ahead
Is not to forget that there is yet some work unfinished
Before injustice and hatred can be put forever to bed