Obama certainly was willing to take on that mantle as the leader of the free world, and why wouldn't he? The president is many things to many people. But when push comes to shove, there is only so much of that symbolism any reasonable man can shoulder, and Obama has demonstrated a bit of wisdom in shrugging off that responsibility today. He disowns no one, and takes no responsibility for their dysfunctions. That's on you.
There's really nothing left to say.
Indeed. It's up to people to make the world a better place. Leaders can inspire, but the final change rests with you.