To the Editor:

On Monday, I don’t believe there were any Americans who watched the Inauguration Ceremony for the swearing-in of President Barack Obama for the second term, who was not moved with love and compassion for the First Family in one way or another.

This is a family so serene, unruffled, bright and deserving of the highest respect of all. Having Supreme Court justices present for the swearing-in ceremony afforded them an opportunity to think about the responsibility incumbent upon them to perform their duties in the most just, equal and honorable way.

The fervent and earnest prayer was delivered by Myrlie Evers-Williams, widow of Medgar Evers, who lost his life for the cause of freedom. The program participants all performed with a spirit of confidence that showed their desire to set an appropriate tone to preface the speech that would follow by our president.

Everyone who participated displayed a great sense of pride, honor and appreciation to be a part of such a historical celebration.

Another memorable occasion that factored into the spirit of the celebration was the honoring of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who lived, suffered and died for the cause of freedom. He fought for all Americans who were denied their inalienable rights.

However, today we must continue the fight to maintain the progress made thus far. We must continue on behalf of those of us who have been denied too much. And we must prevent the destruction of our accomplishments by legislators who still are unable to accept progress.

There must be some change in the thinking and actions of Republican legislators who were elected to serve the people throughout Virginia and our nation. Their constituents expect them to act responsibly and intelligently when speaking on their behalf.

This cannot be done by just saying “no,” often followed by some stupefied response exposing the ignorance of the legislation before them. Beyond saying “no” to everything possible, the non-performing, Republican-led Congress has accomplished nothing to their credit, except being very transparent in exposing who they really are — a financial burden on the nation for the last four years. No one has to be a genius to determine their intentions.

“We The People” should be proud that God created this great man born of a white mother and an African father, who has led this nation remarkably well in spite of so much planned opposition. He is a brilliant person with a heart of love, dedicated to improving the quality of life for all Americans.

America is beautiful, but it could be more beautiful if we only follow the lead.

Ruby H. Walden
Suffolk