President Barack Obama receives Nobel Peace Prize Photo by Ernest Marshall OSLO,NORWAY-Oslo's City Hall held the ceremonial room where President Barack Obama received the Nobel Peace Prize on Thursday, December 10.

Trumpeters dressed in traditional velvet outfits heralded the entry of Barack Obama. With him was King Harald and Queen Sonja of Norway and Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg and his wife. Obama moved among royalty with his traditional athletic gait and calm composure. Thorbjorn Jagland, chair of the Nobel Prize committee, explained in Norwegian and English the process for selecting a recipient and the reasoning behind Barack Obama's selection. President Obama sat listening intently, legs crossed, wearing a black suit, white shirt, and stormy grey tie. Finally, the introductions ended.

With history in hand and in mind, Barack Obama approached the podium. His hands shook slightly as he spoke of a just war, more attainable peace, and the recognized sense of self-defense. After the ceremony, a noticeably relieved President Obama and Michelle walked side-byside behind the royal entourage surrounded by applause.

That evening the couple stood on the balcony of the Grand Hotel as have all Nobel Laureates in past years. The Obamas waved to the joyous crowd albeit behind bulletproof glass. They must return to other tasks and the reality of being the President of the United States.