President Obama Arrives

President Obama spoke at MIT this afternoon and I had the chance to see his motorcade drive down to the building at which he was scheduled to speak. It was some kind of thrilling to see the place in lockdown, all the cops looking stately and serious. It made me really appreciate the grandeur and honor of his position. Smiles spread across everyone's faces as they watched the motorcade go by and a positive energy hung in the brisk fall air. I think this sense of peace and renewed confidence in the American possibility is enough to warrant the receiving of the Nobel Peace Prize. I acknowledge the criticism of the president's win - it being premature and unfounded compared to the accomplishments of others. But President Obama's election shows an achievement of the American people to push beyond their fears and inhibitions and vote for the individual who is best suited for the job, regardless of superficial reasons. That is worthy of an award, which was won for us all.

{The Obamas on Inauguration Day - photo by Annie Leibovitz}

For the full set of Leibovitz images taken of the Obama administration for Vanity Fair, click here.