No matter what one individual's opinion of George W. Bush may be, it is a fact that much of the world lost a great deal of respect for the United States due to his presidency. The world cheered with us when Obama was elected president, hoping that the United States had chosen a leader capable of reestablishing the country's global prestige. If nothing else, Obama's speech is a step toward regained respect. Respect may not sound very important to an individual American, but in truth, it is extremely important. In these last few decades, we have entered a global world with no real borders. Our safety and economic security depend on other countries. Respect given to our government will be the same respect and value given to us as its citizens. Obama's speech is showing foreign nations that he is dedicated to moving forward and to mending strained or broken international relationships.

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