In about twelve hours, Barack Obama will take the oath of office of President of the United States of America. This day has been a long time in coming. A time so long, many people who have done so much to make it possible are not here to see it.
Today, as we celebrate the inauguration of President Barack Obama, let us acknowledge just a few of the many people who -- one way or another -- made this day possible, even though they are not here to see it.
Who knows what the people above -- the people who never saw 2008 -- might think if they were here today? Maybe the words of Clarence B. Jones (too long and complex to quote selectively, and well worth reading in full) might be an approximation for some. Maybe there is no approximation we can comprehend.
These last few people all came close to seeing this day realized. All saw enough that they knew this day was coming.
The people pictured here by no means represent a comprehensive list of the deceased individuals responsible for this day. I welcome your additions in comments as we remember and give thanks to all who did not live to see what they helped make possible.