A significant moment in history?

Today, Barrack Obama is swore in as the 44th US President. While I have an interest in politics, I am not an avid follower. However, I felt that it was important to watch or at least listen to the inauguration of now President Obama. I sensed that it could be one of the most significant events of my lifetime and I wanted to be able to say to my kids (if I should ever have any), that I remember listening to the speech and where I was when it happened.

Growing up, I used to ask my parents if they remembered where they were during significant moments in history, such as the Assassination of JFK or John Lennon or when Neil Armstrong walked on the moon. They could neither tell me nor did they seem to care. I don't want to have the same response if asked by my children.

After listening to this "historical moment in history", however, I am left to wonder if it really was that significant an event. Like all things that are built up for months, the final result is always a let down. Before it began, it was over. There was no great moment that stood out, in fact, the moment that I will remember most is the Chief Justice saying the oath wrong, and hearing Obama pause mid-speech until the Chief Justice realized his error and corrected the mistake.

While the memorable event, wasn't that memorable, I'm certain that there will be one or more defining moments during President Obama's 4 years in office and if there isn't may be that alone will define his legacy. Compared to the last 8 years of endless drama under the Bush administration, a calm, steady leader maybe exactly what America needs. Only time will tell.