Obama's Inaugural Address

I unfortunately missed most of the inaugural address, so I cannot really say whether I agree that Obama's rhetoric was lacking or not. However, I completely agree that this particular inauguration was an extremely important moment in history, and the speech should reflect that importance. Gerson seems to think that Obama did not live up to this. I never really thought about specific phrases or words in a speech making it seem more important or meaningful, but it is so true. Everyone remembers specific lines like Kennedy's "ask not what your country can do for you" speech or Martin Luther King's "I have a dream." This was a major moment, and the words spoken should have an effect on the people listening. Gerson does not seem to think that it will be memorable in this aspect.
However, it will be memorable in his ideology. Gerson says that Obama mentioned going back to old values which is something that the country needs. He agreed with his emphasis on loyalty, duty, and responsibility, and I do too. Also, Gerson goes on to say that he hopes that Obama will stick to what he says about religion and faith-based institutions. I hope that decisions made will reflect some sort of belief or faith or this country will only have more problems. I completely agree with Gerson that Obama's religious comments during the address only added to it, and it is important that he acts out what he says.