A Cog in the Writing Machine

The first two arguments are centered around Michelle Obama's outfits that she wore on Inaugural Day. Who knew outfits could be an argument? The first outfit was a sparkling yellow, knee-length dress along with a matching coat; I personally didn't like all the yellow but it was definitely nice to see a dress coat on a First Lady much like that of Jackie O's. This outfit was designed by a Cuban-American named Isabel Toledo, who worked with Anne Klein for some time. The second outfit was Michelle Obama's one sleeve, cream-colored chiffon, floral embellished ball gown. This beautiful creation was designed by an  Asian-Canadian named Jason Wu.  Now I personally believe that the first argument is what both these outfits fall under: arguments to inform. So often women wear designers everyone knows without even blinking. I am sure there are many designers that are so common-placed that even the most untrained in fashion could recognize the name. However, here is Michelle Obama, the "role-model for American women," dressing in not well known designer wear. The First Lady more than likely wore these outfits because these are designers who are not living in high-rises and having others run around and do their designing for them. These designers are still working their way to the top and creating beautiful pieces of art as they go. The second argument is definitely targeted with the second outfit, the gown: argument to convince. After the Obama campaign told HBO to leave out a prayer by an openly gay minister, the gay community felt as if they were given the cold shoulder. This story has a point. Jason Wu is openly gay, in fact his first designs were for RuPaul and Amanda Lepore. Now for the First Lady to pick and wear an outfit by an openly gay designer and looks smashing in it makes a point. It didn't matter to Michelle Obama if the designer was gay or not, it mattered that she looked amazing at the ball. 

Another argumentative point is the main Inaugural Ball itself. Many people were not happy that so much money was being spent on the Ball, even though most of the money came about through private donations. This argument would be first to define: the ball was held for the military and for over 300 families who had lost their family members during the War on Terrorism. This Ball was definitely a unifying component, to show that there can be a celebration whenever the times are tough. There is no need to put on a potato sack and to worry over every single aspect. Yes, things need to be fixed but that does not mean that we have to put ourself in the doldrums.  A second argument point would be the evaluation of the ball. This doesn't seem like it'd be a big point but just think of how it would reflect on Obama and his campaign if the Inaugural Ball were to be a complete and utter bust. Fortunately, by many news cast standards, the ball was simply amazing. Josh Groban, Jordan Sparks, and Jon Bon Jovi were just a few of the singers who graced the stage (all of which I like). Least of all, Beyonce sang "At Last" for Michelle and Barack Obama's dance together. This had major emotional, pathos, appeal to it because you could just see how in love Michelle and Obama are. It definitely strengthened the hope with my heart for a rejuvenation in America.  

The last argument is that of the future. Many people see hope in the future but I was definitely moved when Will.I.Am his enthusiasm and hope for the next four years. He performed at the Neighborhood Ball held in an area of D.C. where people were welcomed to join and attend. Will.I.Am was born and raised in the projects in eastern Los Angeles, he found a personal connection to many of the people he was singing for at the Neighborhood Ball. He spoke of educating himself on solutions for problems and helping others be educated about solutions as well. He also wanted to energize people about the Obama administration when so many people feel as if they are burnt out. 

There are so many things that can go unnoticed during the hubbub and rush of Inauguration Day but if you take a chance to stop and think about all the tinier things that are happening in the big picture, you too can see the Belle and all the Balls.