We asked, and you answered. And answered. And answered.

We posted a call for readers to tell us how they were feeling about Barack Obama's inauguration. Just on the day of the inauguration, Jan. 20, we received more than 60,000 posts. We heard voices from every state and more than two dozen countries, from Spain to Qatar.

Throughout Inauguration Day we featured hundreds of the comments in a scroll bar toward the top of the MSN.com homepage. In the comments, several strong themes came through. Here's the rundown:

Feeling inspired by the moment: "Today is truly an inspiration for everyone to dream big. This movement's infectious,” wrote Courtney from Phoenix. “The inauguration signifies hope for mankind,” wrote Marco of Reading, Pa. “The U.S. is heading in the right direction.” Charlene from Lancaster, Ken., said, “This is the most historic event in my lifetime. I will tell my grandchildren about it.”

Sending prayers and good wishes for the first family: “We didn't vote for Obama, but as with any president, we should give him a chance,” wrote Stan and Mary, of Seymour, Mo. In Albuquerque, Jose said: “Congrats, President Obama. Don't forget your Bible. I will be praying for you.”

Showing concern for the Obama family’s safety: “I don’t believe the U.S. is ready for a black president, and I worry about him and his family,” wrote Donna of Delta, Colo. Michelle from Gastonia, N.C. wrote: “I pray for everyone's safety and that things go well today!”

Expressing pride for electing our first black president: “As a black American whose grandparents were slaves, I am very proud of my country,” wrote Ronald from Far Rockaway, N.Y. And Samantha from Brooklyn noted, “It means that finally there is a commander in chief that looks like a member of my family.” Others wished that Martin Luther King Jr. was still alive to witness the day. “This was especially meaningful to those old enough who heard ‘I have a dream’ when it was only a dream,” wrote Andrea from Maplewood, N.J.

Calling out that Obama is half-white: But at the same time, many questioned why he was being labeled as a black man when his mother was white. "They should call him the first mixed president. His mom was white as snow, so he is not the first black president,” commented Linda from Memphis. Nancy from Columbus, Ohio said, “I hope it is well worth it to the country. He may be the first black president, but he is not 100 percent African-American.”

Getting weary of the race issue altogether: Then there were expressions of exasperation that Obama’s race was even an issue. “Isn't it just as racist to glorify him because of race as it is to discriminate him for it?” wrote Diana of Okemos, Mich. Tiffany of Miami summed up another common sentiment of the day: “It's sad that many people still think that America is only America if a white man is president.”

Celebrating is a waste of money: Many, many of you wrote to say that the millions of dollars could have been put to better use. “A waste of money and time. Just swear him in and let him get to work,” wrote Nancy from Grandville, Mich. “I voted Obama, but in this time of crisis, all the pomp and glitz is unnecessary!” said Marge from Jacksonville, Fla.

“Sad day for America”: This was another oft-repeated comment. Virgil from Trenton, N.J. “To me, this inauguration means it is a sad day for America.” Chris in Fayetteville, Ark., admitted he felt “sad, concerned, and scared. I feel America has made a dreadful mistake! I only pray that my feelings prove to be unfounded.”

“The beginning of the end”: The change in administration was not welcome by many of our readers. “This is the beginning to the end of this country, from every level of thought and deed,” wrote Paul from Phoenix. Ric in Cincinnati echoed that sentiment: “This presidency marks the beginning of the end. Government will dominate.” And, from William in Colorado Springs: “We are entering what will be the worst times in the history of the United States.”

For all of you who wrote in, thank you for sharing your thoughts, concerns and hopes with MSN. We always want to hear what’s on your mind; e-mail us at inside-msn@hotmail.com and let us know what you want to read about next.

By Heidi A. Schuessler, User Education Producer, MSN.com

When Barack Obama took the oath of office today, it was the culmination of a long and hard-fought election season. 

MSN.com would like to hear from you! We want to know how you were feeling and what you were thinking as you watched the inauguration events unfold. Or, if you didn’t watch, why? A selection of your comments will be printed on MSN.com.

Click here to share your thoughts; be sure to include your first name only, your comment, and your city and state/country.

Here are a few examples of what MSN readers from around the country are saying:

The size of the crowds on the National Mall so early in the day was inspiring. Wow.
—David, Cincinnati

I've been waiting eight years for this. I'm going to be parked in front of my TV all day.
—Nadine, Buffalo, N.Y.

This is the best day this country has had in eight years. —Alisa, Lakeland, Fla.

No one is a miracle-worker, not even Obama. But I do believe he can change things for the better. —Savannah, Fla.

He can't do any worse than Bush did! —Mike, Greenwich, N.Y.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime dream to come true; a blessed day for all. —Jill, Aiken, S.C.

No big deal. I can't believe people are wearing his face on their clothes like he's some hero. —Rene, West Berlin, N.J.

Whether you voted for him or not, shouldn't every American want Obama to succeed?
—Vivi, Easton, Pa.

With God on your side, Obama, you will make American great again.
—Phina, Lagos, Nigeria

Obama has a tremendous opportunity to change the world for the better. Such a burden to bear. —Dan, Parkville, Md.

He was a do-nothing senator. Why do people think he will be an effective president?
—Joanne, Reeders, Pa.

A great day for all Americans! Naysayers, get a life. —Sarah, Bismarck, N.D.

Every other president had a parade and a ball. Why not Obama? Oh, because you didn't vote for him. —Joseph, Cleveland

He can talk the talk, can he walk the walk? —Nick, Badger, Iowa

The fine print: There's space for only about 20 words per entry. MSN editors may edit your comment for length. We won't publish offensive comments, rumors or accusations. Just be sensible. Go easy on the all-caps, too. Finally, by submitting your comment, you give us permission to print it on MSN.

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