Thursday, July 7, 2011

WHO CAN RESTORE HONOR AND DIGNITY TO THE PRESIDENCY?

I remember the Carter years.  President Carter was perceived as inept and weak. He looked small and insignificant as his final year was marked by the 1979 takeover of the American embassy in Iran and holding of hostages by Iranian students, an unsuccessful rescue attempt, serious fuel shortages and the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.
As gloom had seeped into the consciousness of America, Ronald Reagan appeared as a bright light. He uplifted our country and restored a feeling of confidence in America's greatness. I remember early in his presidency I took my young daughter out of school one special day he came to our town. It was a thrill for me to see this great man who was rebuilding faith and pride in America. I cherish the memory of that day and am so grateful to have been able to share it with my child.
As we look today for the man or woman to lead our country through this perilous time, I reflect on the qualities to look for in a president. 
I consider patriotism to be first and foremost! An unquestioned, unwavering love for our country.
Followed by a record of proven leadership, positive accomplishments, wisdom, good judgment and clarity of vision and direction. Strength of character must include honesty, integrity, courage, fearlessness, optimism,  firm principles, an inherent goodness and ability to act decisively.  
Never again can we be satisfied with a president who will pander to his own party and his special friends, while disparaging those with whom he disagrees. We must elect an honorable man or woman to be president of ALL the people, one who will always remember that our government is "of the people, by the people, for the people".  
May our next President remember the words of Ronald Reagan: "If we ever forget we are A Nation Under God, we will be a nation gone under."