
The man at the podium
knows what it's like to be free,
to move from country to country,
across a continent, across the sea.
The man in the audience
cherishes freedom as his right,
thankful for the resounding voice
that has placed that freedom in new light.

The man who is holding attention
knows well of free speech,
has taken advantage of opportunity
to inspire, to motivate, to teach.
The woman in the audience
listens entranced, almost in disbelief,
taking to heart the inspirational promise,
joy uproariously replacing grief.
The man who keeps his calm
knows the importance of confidence
the wisdom of surrounding himself
with great minds for guidance.
The child in the audience
senses he's in the presence of greatness
knows his future depends on the eloquence,
believes he deserves more of life, not less.

The man who is a great orator
inspires with his love of his country,
with his belief that, "Yes, we can,"
for he hears it shouted in one great cry.
The reporter in the audience
looks around at the faces in Grant Park,
knows this is the moment, the beginning,
that this is time for history to mark.

The King, now in heaven,
sees his torch passed on,
knows freedom will sing,
the future surely drawn.
The King, rightly pleased.
arises from his cloud,
smiles at the sight
cries, "At Last," out loud!



























45 old applause
