A Walk to Remember (January 20, 2009)

From Julie Schifeling ‘96 MA ‘03…

The long walk on Inauguration Day

The day started at 5:15 a.m.  Catching the Metro at 6:30 a.m., we slowly made our way to the Capitol.  I met some wonderful people.  One young woman is a 4th grade teacher in Alabama, and her class was going to be told today where she was.  She was busy collecting memorabilia to share with her students when she returns home.  I met several people from Chicago, one who had ties to Peoria, and another whose niece graduated from Bradley.  I met a gentleman from Los Angeles who, when I told him I worked at Bradley, went on and on about what a great school Bradley was and what a good basketball team they had this year.

After a very long walk, we were directed to the gate for purple ticket holders. Unfortunately, we were given the wrong directions, as were silver ticket holders who were cutting through our block’s long group.  It actually became a dangerous situation, with paramedics called in to take care of folks who were overcome, due to the crushing situation.

For the most part, everyone kept a great attitude and looked for ways to help each other.  A nice man found a way out, so he and I were able to escape the madness.  As we walked around, we found another way to get to the purple gate. So, after waiting in one line or another for over 2 1/2 hours, they finally let in the purple tickets holders, and we were able to be there for the entire swearing-in ceremony.

Anticipating the swearing-in

The atmosphere was electric and awe-inspiring.  Almost from the moment I reached the Capitol, I could feel the tears beginning to swell.  From the opening remarks, to hearing the great Aretha Franklin, the swearing in of Sen. Biden as our next Vice President, and music by Yo-Yo Ma and Izaak Perlman, the anticipation continued to build.

Having lived through the assassinations of RFK and Martin Luther King, Jr. as a child, I truly have no words for the feelings I experienced today.

Living in the moment

When President Obama was sworn in, everyone cheered, hugged and shed many tears.  Everyone was a friend today. When President Obama began his speech, everyone stopped talking and listened.  With the hundreds of thousands in my area alone, that in itself is remarkable. President Obama has mentioned often that we are one America, and today I saw it and am blessed to have been a part of it.  I don’t know how I will ever be able to thank Brad McMillan for this incredible opportunity.

As the ceremony came to a close, folks began to walk to their various destinations.  I’ve never seen such an incredible mass of humanity move quietly as one, offering to take pictures for each other before moving on. Everybody was talking to each other and sharing their hopes and their joy at having had the opportunity to witness history.

Although the first part of my day was a little chaotic, getting back to Virginia was quite easy. I was finally able to sit after being on my feet for almost five hours.

More later…