Roberts, Obama, and the Humor

We’re often remembered for our mistakes; so we better not take ourselves too serious. I was reminded of this truth on Tuesday when Chief Justice John Roberts administered the oath at Barack Obama’s inauguration. The oath is to be repeated as, “faithfully execute the office of president of the United States.” Chief Justice Roberts mistakenly moved “faithfully” to the end of the statement. Most probably wouldn’t have ever noticed, though a few did. The next day, Chief Justice Roberts administered the oath again in proper sequence. Interestingly enough, this wasn’t the first time the oath was repeated. Calvin Coolidge and Chester Arthur had to repeat the oath of office. Chief Justice William Taft added a word as Herbert Hoover was sworn in as president of the United States.

President Obama will be remembered as the president who took the oath twice. Chief Justice John Roberts will be remembered as the man who got the words out of sequence and made the mistake. Sometimes you just have to go with the flow and live through the mistakes. Living in a mistake is a great time to remind yourself you’re just human. Be sure and laugh with yourself at the same time because there will be plenty laughing at and with you. It is the humor of life.