To the Editor:

At this most historic time, hope has electrified America and it has electrified nations around the world. Clearly, change is in the air and Americans are joining hands to grasp a brighter future, as is reflected in President Obama's approval rating having soared well beyond that of former incoming Presidents.

Telling numbers such as these reveal that President Obama is a transformative figure, a true and rare personage who emerges every generation or so onto the national scene. Such people inspire America to reach deep into her founding principles to help perfect our young evolving union that we hold so dear.

Already, one can feel harsh edges softening and sense that America's shattered moral standing is on the mend. As a people, we seem to be looking at each other differently and for the better, and seeing ourselves reflected in each other.

President Obama leaves no doubt that we as Americans, when acting at our best, can overcome difficult challenges which lay before us. And the fact is his words resonate as though they belong to one nation after another.

Barack Obama is America's President, although as a transformative figure he is so much more than that. He understands that people at home and around the world are standing up for greater justice, for peace and an end to needless war, for a healthier planet and for increased liberty. He has helped us to see ourselves in each other, which is key to the brighter future which all mankind aspires to. Ronald E. Wallin Mackinaw City