Once Barack Obama is sworn in as the 44th President of the United States at noon on Tuesday, he will step into one of the most important, influential roles on Earth.

His election as the first black U.S. president is historic, but the work he will do while in office will also help shape his future public image, as well as the lives of Americans and people around the world.

While Obama won the presidency with 53 percent of the popular vote and a wide electoral college margin over his opponent, U.S. Sen. John McCain, events during the presidential campaign and the nature of our political climate did produce a notable polarization of Americans for or against him.

Regardless of what you may think about Obama, as Americans, we have a responsibility to support our president. At a time in which people of various backgrounds are concerned about the world economy, national security and numerous other issues, we’re at a turning point.

Our democratic government and free society gives every American—from Joe the Plumber to the men and women of the U.S. Congress—to speak and act in either a positive or negative manner.

The American people have chosen Barack Obama to lead our country and represent us worldwide. Take a look at your heart, and give Obama your prayers and support with the hope he will help us realize a better future.