Yes, I too was extremely proud to see a “Black Family” poised to move into the “White House” however, after two days, it dawned on me that what was happening was America getting ready to embrace its “lesser-self”.
What does this mean?

In light of the election, in light of Obama’s great victory, in light of the media excitement comes the reality that America has recoiled. In the coming age of the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa), in the coming age of developing countries and new markets especially in the Middle East, America is no longer the centre rather, it is accepting that it will have to reorganise and reprioritise itself to survive to remain in the New World Order power circle. Already it has become apparent that China will play a big role in its energy and trade outlook. Gordon Brown’s trip to the Middle East has also highlighted the diversification and interesting dynamic position which Obama will be placing America in.

The acceptance became clear in Obama’s campaign; “Yes we can”. Ok, America you can, you will come out looking strong initially, however, the true nature of your strength will come in the next three years when you will have to face serious questions and make decisions about internal energy diversification (i.e. will it begin to look at the Brazil Model), Nuclear proliferation as the rise of the BRICS continue, international duty militarily.

What does this mean for the world? Leverage on key world issues is changing. One only has to look at the situation in Sudan for instance to understand that it is the Chinese and not American intervention that will change the course of that region. In the Eastern Block of Europe, Russia is becoming more bullish in its strength as they begin to build on the leverage and relations they have had for years with countries considered less until now. In the Middle East, the money is clearly speaking shouting more loudly than everything else.

Yes, Obama can inspire, but ultimately he is going to convey and help America confront with its demons of regression. America has decided to step back and look inward once again to begin a process of internal rebuilding of what it represents in the approaching World which will see China and India rise, United Europe economically as a concept gain more attention, Russia taken dead serious and developing countries as viable places to invest in.

Yes, change has come, transformative leadership is here for America, it is here for them to realise that the head of the world stage is soon going to become a crowded platform! My only worry is that on issues like the environment, aid and international development, trade; is it too late for the new administration in America to begin to influence the emerging powers on their current conduct and outlooks in these matters?