That is the lesson of this evening. In a time of troubles, a leader rose from the rank and file of Americans and inspired a nation to greatness. We face so much in the days to come. It's hard, these days, to tell if the ice or the economy is melting faster. Populations are up and resources are running out. Oil, fissionables, and water are driving increasing conflicts across the globe. We face a challenge unlike anything humanity has ever seen.
And now we have a leader equal to these challenges.
Change is coming. The tired refrains of fear and hate spread by the old guard failed to move the populace. Instead, a beacon of hope ignited within the heart of the country, and shines out now across the world. Men, women and children celebrate with their families, drawn together and inspired by hopes and dreams of a better world.
It will take all of us, working together, to face the future. But with Barack Obama leading the way, I know we can overcome any obstacle, meet any challenge, and stride boldly into a new age of human history.