2.25.09

I was very inspired by President Obama's speech on Tuesday, especially since he mentioned education policy and reform which is my area of interest.

It is an excellent address: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/24/us/politics/24obama-text.html?ref=politics

Something he said that particularly struck me was, "As we stand at this crossroads of history, the eyes of all people in all nations are once again upon us, watching to see what we do with this moment, waiting for us to lead" (2008, 8).

Leadership is actually a topic I touched on in a previous post and it continues to resonate with importance as I continue my studies.

He alluded to it again in saying, "there is no force in the world more powerful than the example of America" (8).

I think a lot of policy makers and critics are afraid of certain policies because of their almost obsessive drive to preserve the status quo. "Why fix it if it ain't broke?" they say. Well I say this: when it comes to the realization of human rights and potential, we can always do better. Change will occur anyway; if it ain't broke now, someday it will break. Dynamic actions based on local needs allow for sustainable growth, real problem solving, cultural sensitivity, and human development. Of course, it also leads to an unknown future; hence the principle of choice is manifest. My argument is that the "don't fix it" approach is one based on fear and that any decision based on fear will never allow for the true realization of potential and will only have temporary results at best.

Obama also stressed the importance of personal leadership and the responsibility it carries. He said, "Those of us gathered here tonight have been called to govern in extraordinary times. It is a tremendous burden, but also a great privilege, one that has been entrusted to few generations of Americans, for in our hands lies the ability to shape our world, for good or for ill" (8).

To me, this statements echoes with words from the leaders in the Book of Mormon. They had to be leaders amid trying times, but they were dedicated to edifying values and human potential. They recognized the mantle of responsibility that comes with leadership.

Each of us can relate to those leaders and we should. Our times can be a painful reality, but I am convinced that, out of the most painful realities come the most satisfying destinies. May the Lord keep our dedication to our values; may He keep our leaders; may He keep us as leaders; and may He keep us in our efforts to fulfill our potential and return triumphant.