Just a brief note on today's events. We could not have been prouder as we watched our country inaugurate a president that represents a return to authentic American values. A man that understands that character, magnanimity and cooperation far outstrip the results of petty, selfish and narrow interests. And a leader that earnestly wants for everyone to benefit, not just his people, not just his supporters, not just his agenda.

The economic forecast is nothing short of daunting (Thanks W! Thanks GOP!). Yet, I nurture a tiny, secret hope that we, as a nation, will lend our collective might to fixing things that have too long gone unattended. I believe that if we act with harmony, speed and conviction, we can recover in many months, instead of several years.

We are on the threshold of gaining a new maturity as a people. But we must galvanize that maturity with courageous action, fortitude and sacrifice.