Column by CJ Conklin

Prior to the Cats storming onto the field last year, the fans at Commonwealth Stadium erupted at the sound of Marcus McClinton shouting, “We believe” on the Jumbotron. In fact, we did believe. We had instilled trust into our team, and rightfully so, as we saw them conquer foes like Louisville and Louisiana State. The leadership of McClinton and his ability to make us believe is something we could not overlook in his character. As the 44th president of the United States was inaugurated on Tuesday, many Americans once again believed.

This election came down to more than Democrats versus Republicans. It came down to more than tax issues, foreign affairs and matters of civil rights. It even came down to more than the cost of higher education, although that is one thing we are all undoubtedly concerned about.

Now, more so than any time in the past 75 years, Americans need a president who can make them say, “We believe,” a president who can inspire the uninspired and give hope to those who have none.

In fact, CNN reported that an estimated two million people attended the inauguration on Tuesday, while millions of others tuned in. During that time, President Obama gave his inauguration speech in which he said, “On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear.”

Americans are nothing short of petrified at what the future holds. They fear more than just a changing lifestyle, but rather the thoughts of an unthinkable one. Families, who used to live securely, now have to worry about providing simple necessities for themselves.

Tuesday changed that fear, though, for not only many in America, but also abroad. Rather than being scared, they are being hopeful, if not for immediate help, at least for the ability to be optimistic.

There was no better representation of this hope for “America’s new soul” than when Aretha Franklin, a 66-year-old woman well past her prime, sang “My Country Tis of Thee” at the inauguration. For at least those three minutes and seven seconds, it seemed hard for any American watching to deny the fact that they believed in what was to come.

If any one person can put that much soul into any one thing, then the soul and belief that Americans can, together, put into this country is without a doubt insurmountable. As Obama said, “Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off and begin again the work of remaking America.”

The night is always darkest before the dawn, and for that we may be disappointed. Our hopes and beliefs will not be met in the timely fashion that we want. But for the first time in the last couple of years, many Americans are joyous that they will indeed be met.

Men, women, friends and strangers all rejoiced and hugged on Capitol Hill Tuesday as a new leader approached the nation for the first time as president of the United States. He leads us into the unknown, but leads us with confidence nonetheless. He says, “Know that America is a friend of each nation … and that we are ready to lead once more.” And for that, I believe.