Benediction For A New Day

Washing down my third slice of Joe's Pizza with some bubbly, and toasting my coworkers as the inauguration wound to a close with the benediction given by Joseph Lowery. I knew that the Rev. Lowery's critical work during the civil rights movement and his continued determination for social justice were inspiring. What I did not know is that Rev. Lowery can benedict like a mutha fuckah, ending his prayer with these unforgettable words:

"Lord, in the memory of all the saints who from their labors rest, and in the joy of a new beginning, we ask you to help us work for that day when black will not be asked to get back, when brown can stick around -- (laughter) -- when yellow will be mellow -- (laughter) -- when the red man can get ahead, man -- (laughter) -- and when white will embrace what is right.

Let all those who do justice and love mercy say amen.

AUDIENCE: Amen!

REV. LOWERY: Say amen --

AUDIENCE: Amen!

REV. LOWERY: -- and amen.

AUDIENCE: Amen! (Cheers, applause.)"

AMEN BRUTHA! AMEN!