You may recognize the phrase “Hakuna Matata!” as a song title from the Disney produced children’s movie, “The Lion King.” Literally translated, hakuna matata is a Swahili phrase meaning there are “no worries for the rest of our days.”

You may not recognize the name Peggy Joseph. But, if you saw the video, you will remember her as the adoring Obama supporter, who — immediately following an late October campaign rally — excitedly told the media, “I won’t have to worry about putting gas in my car; I won’t have to worry about paying my mortgage; you know, if I help him, he’s gonna help me.”

Hakuna Matata!

Whenever a new president is inaugurated, there has always been an uptick in hope for the future along with a desire for change in search of a better way. Both spring from the optimism that percolates in the breast of most American citizens.

That’s good for the individual human condition; and, when properly applied by elected officials, good for the renewal, reinforcement and continuity of our system of government. Hakuna matata is not.

We know at this inauguration that Ms. Joseph wasn’t the only voter mesmerized by “Obama speak.” We also know that she wasn’t the only voter who bought in to our new president’s campaign call for what, at best, was vague unexplained change.

What we do not know — and will not know for some time — is how many of America’s citizens realistically understand that both hope and change require individual responsibility, accountability, commitment and personal action.

We know that none of those attributes are part of the hakuna matata philosophy.

We do not know if voters desiring “no worries” realize there will not be “no problems” simply because Barack is on the job.

Or do we?

Hakuna Matata!

The children’s song crafted by Elton John and Tim Rice includes the following lyrics:

“Hakuna Matata! What a wonderful phrase,

“Hakuna Matata! Ain’t no passing craze;

“It means no worries for the rest of your days,

“It’s our problem-free philosophy.

“Hakuna Matata!”

I wonder … does anyone know how to say in Swahili: “Individual Life in Liberty is the only path in the Pursuit of Happiness!

Richard Olivastro is a member of the National Speakers Association, president of Olivastro Communications and founder of Citizens For Change. He can be reached at Rich@Olivastro.NET or 877.RichSpeaks.