'Hakuna Matata!' Barack Obama
By Richard Olivastro
January 20, 2009
You may recognize the phrase "Hakuna Matata!" as the song title it is from the Disney produced children's movie, "The Lion King". Literally translated, "Hakuna Matata!"
is a Swahili phrase meaning there are "No worries for the rest of our days".
You may not recognize the name Peggy Joseph. But, if you saw the video, you will remember her as the adoring Obama supporter who - immediately following an late October campaign rally - excitedly told the media, "I won't have to worry about putting gas in my car; I won't have to worry about paying my mortgage; you know, if I help him, he's gonna help me".
"Hakuna Matata!"
Whenever a new president is inaugurated, there has always been an uptick in hope - for the future - along with a desire for change - in search of a better way. Both spring from the optimism that percolates in the breast of most American Citizens. That's good for the individual human condition; and, when properly applied by elected officials, good for the renewal, reinforcement and continuity of our system of government.
"Hakuna Matata!" is not.
We know, at this inauguration, that Ms. Joseph wasn't the only voter mesmerized by 'Obama speak'. And, we know that she wasn't the only voter who bought in to our new president's call during the campaign for what, at best, was "vague" unexplained change.
What we do not know -- and will not know for some time -- is how many of America's Citizens realistically understand that both hope and change require individual responsibility, accountability, commitment, and personal action.
We know that none of those attributes are part of the "Hakuna Matata!"
Philosophy.
We do not know if voters desiring "no worries" realize that there will not be "no problems" simply because Barack is 'on the job'.
Or do we?
Hakuna Matata!
The children's siren song crafted by Elton John and Tim Rice includes and repeats the lyric:
"Hakuna Matata! What a wonderful phrase,
Hakuna Matata! Ain't no passing craze;
It means no worries for the rest of your days,
It's our problem-free philosophy."
Hakuna Matata!
"Hakuna Matata! -- Swahili for "no worries for the rest of my days!"
I wonder... does anyone know how to say in Swahili...
"Life in Liberty is the only path in the Pursuit of Happiness!
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Richard Olivastro is a professional member of the National Speakers Association, president of Olivastro Communications - an executive leadership development company - and founder of Citizens For Change.
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Note -- The opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions, views, and/or philosophy of GOPUSA.
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