Monday, January 21, 2013

Obama Inaugural Speech Is Not Anchored in Reality

Like many conservatives across America, I choose not to watch Obama's second Inaugural Speech. I chose to spend the holiday with people and enjoying my favorite restaurant. However, I did read a transcript of his speech. I wasn't impressed because what his speech is hollow and empty because I know that while Obama gives good speeches, it is not anchored in reality. He presents a progressive interpretation of American history and its future which is not anywhere close to the truth about the history of the United States. He also cannot give an accurate or honest description of where America is at the present moment. The best example of this is when he talks about the economy, unemployment and being able to persue the career of your dreams: 
An economic recovery has begun. (Applause.) America’s possibilities are limitless, for we possess all the qualities that this world without boundaries demands: youth and drive; diversity and openness; an endless capacity for risk and a gift for reinvention. My fellow Americans, we are made for this moment, and we will seize it - so long as we seize it together. (Applause.)
For we, the people, understand that our country cannot succeed when a shrinking few do very well and a growing many barely make it. (Applause.) We believe that America’s prosperity must rest upon the broad shoulders of a rising middle class. We know that America thrives when every person can find independence and pride in their work; when the wages of honest labor liberate families from the brink of hardship. We are true to our creed when a little girl born into the bleakest poverty knows that she has the same chance to succeed as anybody else, because she is an American; she is free, and she is equal, not just in the eyes of God but also in our own. (Applause.)
We understand that outworn programs are inadequate to the needs of our time. So we must harness new ideas and technology to remake our government, revamp our tax code, reform our schools, and empower our citizens with the skills they need to work harder, learn more, reach higher. But while the means will change, our purpose endures: a nation that rewards the effort and determination of every single American. That is what this moment requires. That is what will give real meaning to our creed. 
Despite his speech, Obama was never serious about improving our economy or reducing unemployment.  Obama promised at the beginning of his term as President that unemployment would not rise above 8% if we let Congress pass the bailout/stimulus bills. As of today, unemployment still isn't down to 5.8%.