I've said from the beginning that I thought Barack Obama would be less ideological and more inclusive than most were expecting -- especially those on the right, with their theories of terrorist sympathizing, Marxism, radical leftism, stealth Islamism, hating America. But liberals, too.
Whatever else it might be, choosing Rick Warren to give the inaugural invocation is a bold statement; and a bit startling, disquieting even to me.
It will surprise no one to hear I'd be happiest were there no invocation at all. Barring that, a self-important, mega-churched, evangelical gay-rejecter would not be my first through hundredth choice. Nor that of several others. On the other hand, it'll be Joseph E. Lowery giving the benediction. To that, I find myself looking forward.
Meanwhile, as he assembles a cabinet of people experienced and smart, but mainly of the middle, having now perturbed both lefties and righties with choices such as Vilsack and Holder, PEBO has been making good on his intention to reach out to the other side of the aisle.
More than ever, I'm convinced he's precisely what this country needs at this precarious time. The real deal.* The question is whether Congress -- so many idiots in such a small space -- will rise to the occasion. It's gonna be a hell of an interesting ride.
* a bluesy cultural reference to the title photo.
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