I love the photo I have put on the header of our blog.  Although it isn't as clear as I would have liked, it speaks volumes.  The men in the dish-dashas are Shaikhs and leaders of the UAE, Saudi Arabia and other Gulf Countries.  We were also surrounded by diplomats of countries such as Japan, China, Turkey, Canada, etc.

We witnessed history with Ambassadors and Diplomats from several countries.  It was an amazing opportunity to see this event while standing shoulder to shoulder with people from all different countries and faiths.  I couldn't help but wonder what they were thinking/feeling..Of course those people on the Mall in D.C. must have all been feeling similar pride, emotion, and hope.  However, I know that all of these people we were with must think their country is great as well and they all have different types of governments from monarchies to democracies, none of which have the history or constitution of the United States.

There was a sense of hope and optimism but it was a subdued event due to the recent deaths and tragic events in Gaza.  Most parties and festivals have been cancelled recently in honor of the loss of life and drama there.