Dear Mr. President

Congratulations on becoming the 44th President of the USA. I'm proud that a black family now occupy the White House, 146 years after the emancipation of slaves.

I know you've got a massive job ahead, an inbox from hell. It's naive to believe the first 21st century President at 47, the 4th youngest in US 232-year history, can make things right.

Yesterday, it was an inspirational day on which the world stopped to watch and you did not disappoint. I was at work, Mr. President and watched you nervously reciting and fluttering your oath. You're human after all.

Your "Remaking of America" speech was delivered well with conviction, a rousing call for change. The US is weakened by recession, fronting wars in Afghanistan and Iraq and delivering better healthcare calls for superhuman strength.These challenges won't be met quickly, or easily, but: "America, they will be met" you promised.

I'm pleased Mr. President that your first act was to halt the proceedings at Guantanamo. All prisoners should be released, unless there is a case against them that stand up in an ordinary court.

Thank you again for taking the opportunity on your first day in office to call the four Middle Eastern leaders. I do pray that this is a start of your commitment to active engagement in pursuit of an Arab-Israeli peace.

Mr. President, please extend a hand of friendship to those suspicious and hostile to the US. Please reject the gung-ho aggression of your predecessor and re-establish America's credentials as a symbol of liberty, equality and justice. And I'm sure enemies of your country would sit up and listen as "they will be judged on what they can build, not what they destroy".

The "Yes we can" spirit of an African-American in the most powerful post in the world, the son of a Kenyan father who, 60 years ago, wouldn't have been allowed to book a table in any restaurant in Washington, will now be followed by everyone around the world.

Mr. President, you swore your oath at a Capitol building which was the work of slave labour - those nameless figures from the bigoted past must have witnessed yesterday with awe too.

I was listening to Rose's niece on tv last night. She said, Rosa refused to give up her seat, so that King could dream and You could run. Please remember that.

Greatness and respect must be earned and I wish you, Mr. President, the very best of luck.

Let the work began...