we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals

[G_j]

"As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals. Our Founding Fathers, faced with perils we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a charter expanded by the blood of generations. Those ideals still light the world, and we will not give them up for expedience’s sake.

And so to all other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman, and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and that we are ready to lead once more."

[varkam]

1. Let it never be said that BHO cannot give a speech.

That was certainly the best speech that I have ever heard in my lifetime.

[TahitiNut]

12. I can hear Barbara Jordan saying to him "You did good, young man. Keep it up."

She's pleased. I just KNOW it.

[ayeshahaqqiqa]

2. I feel that our Constitution is safe again. n/t

[Democrats_win]

3. A great quote for a stronger America.

He captured the idea so well. Those Americans who went before didn't have a nuclear arsenal yet they weren't as afraid as bush's America. That is how shameful his presidency was.

[ananda]

4. It was a great and powerful speech!

It's clear Obama has been holding back.

His speech showed great power and personal
gifts. He clearly has "it" ... something
we have not seen since JFK, and he is capable
of putting great power behind what he
says.

[aquart]

5. So glad he mentioned that.

[Libertyfirst]

6. NPR didn't find anything memorable about the speech. Well, that says

a hell of a lot more about them than it does the speech. Obama didn't strive for line to be remembered, he sought to call us back to our better selves, to energize us for the tasks ahead, and to assure us that the Constitution still matters. But I shall remember for the rest of my life that, "We reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals." It has always been a false choice and after eight years of hearing just the opposite, suddenly the sun came out.

[leftstreet]

7. Don't hate me but I wish he wouldn't say "lead"

Join with others...

Work with others...

Cooperate...

All world govts know that when the US says "lead," it generally means more American Imperialism.

[G_j]

8. agreed

perhaps "lead by example", but yes, "join with" works much better.

[Cid_B]

11. I disagree....

I still have not subscribed to the idea that the US should be one equal voice among every country in the world. It just isn't logical to me that Albania and Zimbabwae should have the same "oomph" that the US has. I have no problem with the US being the big dog on the block.

[Iggo]

13. Well, anybody's the big dog...

...on Zimbabwe's or Albania's block.

[DeepModem Mom]

9. K&R

[mmonk]

10. That was my favorite part.