Saturday, December 5, 2009

The Obamas and Children

Sometimes you shape the narrative by simply living your life. As Gandhi said..."Be the change you want to see in the world." It is in that spirit that I have watched the Obamas over the last couple of years and how they interact with and involve children in their lives.

Its become cliche for politicians to talk about valuing children as our future. But I seldom see them given the priority these words imply. That is why the photos I'm about to share speak to me so much more loudly than words. They indicate a lived-out value of children. And they inspire me.

First of all, a few of my favorites from the campaign.

Photobucket

Photobucket

Photobucket

Photobucket

Since moving into the White House, the Obamas have hosted many events for children.

Like the one in February when middle school children were invited to a presentation about Black History Month.

Photobucket

And to plant an organic garden at the White House.

Photobucket

And a Healthy Kids Fair.

Photobucket

And Bring Your Kids to Work Day at the White House.

Photobucket

Of course, there was Halloween.

Photobucket

Photobucket

And who can forget the fun of the White House Easter Egg Roll?

Photobucket

Photobucket

And finally, there was Astronomy Night at the White House.

Photobucket

Did you know that Michelle Obama has started a mentoring program that matches local girls with White House Staffers? She said it was one of her top goals when becoming First Lady.

Photobucket

Back during the transition, we saw the Obamas interest in visiting local schools. That tradition has continued since they moved into the White House.

Photobucket

Photobucket

Photobucket

I think we should make Michelle Obama's title "Hugger-In-Chief."

Photobucket

Photobucket

Photobucket

But then, I don't know what this guy's title should be.

Photobucket

Photobucket

And finally, lest we forget the two children who currently live in the White House, here's a pictorial look at the bending of the moral arc of the universe towards justice.

Photobucket

Photobucket
(Sasha's first day of school in DC)

1 comment:

  1. Your sentiments are profound and your post is great. i particularly like the juxtaposition of the last two images, Rockwell's painting and the photo of Sasha's Secret Service accompaniment. However, I am concerned and worried if he has as much compassion for the children of Afghanistan.
    -David J. Levy

    ReplyDelete

Why Christian nationalists fear freedom

For years now a lot of us have been trying to understand why white evangelical voters remain so loyal to Donald Trump. I believe that the an...