no point really

I’ve never been into politics very much nor I have I ever watched an inauguration (on TV or in person). But, for some reason, I am attending the inauguration of the one President I can’t stand more than Clinton. I will admit (as it is the obvious truth) that this was a monumental election in many respects. Voters turned out in hordes, a woman was in the running for the office of the President, and a black man won (by both popular and electoral vote) the seat of the President of The United States of America.

This does not change any of my views on the entire thing: I do not believe President-elect Obama was the right choice for our country, I do not believe that voters wielded their ‘right to vote’ (a whole different topic) for the right reasons, and I do not think our country will be happy with their choice in 4 years. No matter what my views, the election is done and me complaining about it will do nothing. So I won’t. But, I will talk about the opportunity I have to witness history!

Today, at 6:30am PST, I lifted off the ground and began my flight to DC to participate in the University Presidential Inaugural Conference and witness the inauguration of the forty-fourth President of the United States. This isn’t a trip I normally would have opted into, but I won it through one of the honor societies I am a member of at my school. Due to this fact, I decided to attend the conference and see what it is all about.

Although, as I already stated, I’m not a fan of politics or Obama, I’m extremely excited to take advantage of the opportunity to see our nation’s capitol and witness an inauguration live. I’ve received many recommendations from friends of places to go and sights to see. Along with witnessing the inauguration, the conference I’m with will have private access to the Smithsonian Museum on the National Mall, view the inaugural parade as the President and Vice President make their way from the United States Capitol Building down Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House, visit the National Mall’s monuments and museums, and attend the exclusive Black Tie Gala Inaugural Ball!

Though, out of everything just listed, the thing I’m most anticipating is not even on the list: the fact I will have a few days off of work, life, and school (which started yesterday). I enjoy my life immensely, including work and school. But, sometimes a break is more than needed; its required.

So, while I’m in D.C., send me suggestions of places to visit and/or sights to see. I’m here for almost 5 days and have several specified free times. Also, come back to my blog a few days after I get back to look at some pictures & videos!

Posted by Nathaniel Keifer