Utahns are tremendous workers, innovators and visionaries. We are linked not only to our past, but just as importantly to our future — to our children. Our time is today, but the impact of our actions will truly be felt tomorrow. We provide the door through which the traditions, accomplishments, and vision of our forbearers will pass to our grandchildren and beyond.

Call me an optimist, but that is exactly what I am.

I see our world more interdependent and opportunity rich each day. — I see our country as one that is still the land of the free and the home of the brave. — I see our state leading other states in new advances — in areas such as biotechnology, aerospace, communications, high technology and travel and tourism. — I see our local communities flourishing under our new economic revitalization plan. — I see our children with unprecedented opportunities to remain in a state they love. — I see our lives as being better tomorrow for our hard work and action today.

The nay-sayers will say it can't be done — "we can't afford it. — "The legislature won't work with you" — or "Washington won't pay attention." To them I say; stand aside and let those who believe lead out.

Remember the desert basin that would never blossom like a rose? Remember the Olympics we were never supposed to win? Remember the human genome project that would never be completed? Remember the citizen army called the National Guard that was never supposed to straddle two simultaneous conflicts? Remember the Utah Football Team that wasn't supposed to survive an undefeated season?

My desire is to usher in an unprecedented period of cooperation and community building. People reaching across boundaries—be they religious or race—political or geographic—a state that is truly civil and respectful for each individual's pathway toward life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness must be our hope.

It must be clear that although our defining roots may be different, they need not divide us. A fundamental aspect of my administration will be to eliminate divisions by creating a common destiny. The best way to bring people together is by developing ways to work together and by doing so we learn that our differences are not always as great as we might imagine.

May we remember that all hearts beat alike and yearn for the same wants and desires — education, jobs and a secure environment—regardless of our point of origin. Our new Administration's theme suggests "A New Day for Utah". The words I have imparted today represent that noble expression.

I call upon all Utahns to place state before self — to fully appreciate our increased diversity because by it we are strengthened. In life we will have our differences, but with it must come greater appreciation and respect for those differences. This is after all, the American Dream and we must continue to ensure it remains the Utah Dream.

God bless America and God bless Utah.