President Barack Obama promised America a short speech and proved true to his word. Brief as it was, however, his inaugural address was full of confidence and optimism, promises of hope and peace and restoration for millions of individuals. The new president's voice was not only broadcast throughout our nation, but also was met with resounding applause around the world.

Students at Sacred Hearts Academy were among those excited on Jan. 20 as they witnessed the swearing-in of the first African-American president. Students were not disappointed in their expectations of Obama's speech.

Junior Mariah Maniulit was inspired by Obama's outlook of hope. “;In his address, Obama stated that even after the war and economic recession, America's capacity to help itself has not changed, and our people are still capable of working as hard as before. I was unsure of what might happen in the future with today's serious problems, but this statement helped to renew my faith in America's future.”;

Students have hope for Obama's ability to fulfill his promises. “;Each president guarantees prosperity and growth but often fails to uphold these promises. I have faith that Barack Obama will stay true to his word and end these political disappointments. I would like to have a government which truly works for the people, instead of one that goes against the people's wishes in starting a war,”; junior Christinn Pacheco said.

After hearing the president's speech, students retained few doubts about Obama's capacity to deal with the economy, war and environment. “;In comparing himself to George Washington, the new president made a strong statement about his ability to lead America and his perseverance in these times of trouble,”; junior Megan Rolfe said. “;I feel positive that Obama will end this war, and then my mother won't have to go to Iraq.”;

“;Lately, I have been quite disappointed in our government and society. The United States has frequently been reduced to greedy people who create restrictions on 'free worship' and invalid lawsuits for easy money,”; junior Briana Schiff said. “;In his speech, however, Obama said that all 'deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness,' leading me to believe that the government will be reformed for the better.”;

Some felt that Obama's speech was not only a promise of peace, but also a call to action. “;As Obama explained, 'Greatness is never a given. It must be earned,'”; junior Jenna Los Banos said. “;If the citizens of the U.S., including those who have minimal political power, can set aside their personal desires and strive to improve the country and the world, America can achieve greatness. We can also reach out to other countries in need of help.”;

“;When he stated that he can't make everything work by himself, President Obama was urging us not only to wish for a better future, but also to become proactive in our own communities through community service or recycling to help the environment,”; junior Kanya Gagarin said. “;We can definitely help to make our hopes for a better world become a reality, but only if we are united and lay partisan tendencies aside.”;

Junior Melissa Bell agreed: “;Obama said that our 'patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness.' This means that if we all use our strengths to support each other and fight as one nation instead of dividing ourselves by race, political parties, status or religion, we can put an end to the war and build back our economy.”;

Students at Sacred Hearts Academy were highly impressed by the new president's speech. In his words, many found inspiration and hope for the future, as well as motivation to take a greater part in their communities. Hopefully, their newfound faith is not misplaced, and Obama will prove again truthful by fulfilling his promises and solving the problems of the economy, war and environment over the next four years.