Like many others I watched President Obama’s inauguration. He was calm and collected, unsmiling, powerful – almost too much so. And then he slipped up twice while being sworn in – a human touch.

His inaugural address was magnificent and despite my skepticism I was impressed by the level of trust, sincerity optimism and gravity Obama delivered in his speech.

Here are some of the best bits (from a transcript):

As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals. Our Founding Fathers, faced with perils we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man…

Here is a fundamental point which must be addressed. For too long we have been fighting terror with methods that are destroying the very liberties we are supposed to be defending. I almost did not believe that a man in power today would say such a thing. With great power comes great responsibility.

We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus – and non-believers.

Did you hear the last part? “and non-believers” Exclude non! Religious discrimination is evil and must be stopped everywhere.

…know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy.

This part of the speech was addressed to other countries but in stating this principle it is an important recognition that it applies to the states as well. The last eight years have been all about destruction and fostering more destruction.

…we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.

A lovely phrase. Powerful.

To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you…

We pledge…

All in all it is very hopeful to have a thinking man in such a position of great power and I am looking forward to the change he promises.