Photo of Reverend Joseph Lowery by Pouya Dianat, staff photographer at the Atlanta Constitution [permission pending].

It’s been a day of jubilation, and, as many head off to inaugural parties, local celebrations, and some to fancy balls, I want to share my own gratitude for the closing words of today’s presidential swearing-in ceremony—the benediction offered by the Reverend Joseph E. Lowery.

Reverend Lowery is recognized by the NAACP as “dean of the civil rights movement” and has a lifetime of speaking truth to power. His prayer was a fitting blessing for today’s momentous occasion and the inspiration and wisdom the nation needs.

Thank you, Reverend Lowery, for reminding us to “pray for not only our nation, but for the community of nations.” We are indeed a world community, interconnected and interdependent, economically, environmentally and socially—may we at least respect the heritage of our own citizenry, so very very few of whom come originally from this land. (more…)