A New Beginning Raising the Barr Weekly Memo: Issue 418

inaugurate
verb

in·au·gu·rate | \ i-ˈnȯ-gyə-ˌrāt  , -gə-ˌrāt \
inauguratedinaugurating

Definition of inaugurate
transitive verb

1to induct into an office with suitable ceremonies
2ato dedicate ceremoniouslyobserve formally the beginning of inaugurate a new school
bto bring about the beginning of

As English is my second language, I am always striving to learn new words and grammar usage. Today, January 20, 2021, is an historic day, just as it is every four years when a president is inaugurated in the United States.

Today, many will celebrate, while others will be less enthusiastic. Such is the power and process of elections in democratic societies.

Inaugurate is a transitive verb which is a verb that has two characteristics. First, it is an action verb, expressing a doable activity. Second, it must have a direct object, something or someone who receives the action of the verb. I understand definition 1 and 2a but it is b that most intrigues me.

Joe Biden, as the 46th president, is the recipient of the inauguration, but we are also charged, each and every one of us, as Americans, to be partners in the new beginning.

Laurel reminded me that while Moses was unhappy about not being allowed to lead the people into the Promised Land, he still conveyed his strength, wisdom and mantel of leadership to Joshua, providing him with the courage and faith to move forward.

Let today be the start of that design, each of us inaugurating the necessary changes within ourselves, together with those in all parts of our lives that can benefit from a fresh and revitalized vision. I look forward to making that happen.

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