Much to my surprise, the atmosphere, was rather sober. Everyone was happy, yes, but not jubilant, like a crowd celebrating a world series victory or superbowl. I believe there was an element of doubt in our collective mind that he would actualy WIN and by such a wide margin - despite polls leading to that conclusion prior to election day - that no one had fully grasped the reality of the announcement by CNN on the jumbotron.
I was one of the few who screamed and cheered at all the rally prompts: end of national anthem, during a chorus of Sweet Home Chicago, or introduction to the stage of *the new first family.* On the trek back to the various public transit stations, there was a shocking lack of celebratory ambiance among the throngs of humanity spread throughout the streets of the south loop. People were happy, but most folks seemed determined to just get their arses home after this long process.
I am still glad I was in attendance to witness this incredible chapter in US - and Chicago - history.
