U.S. Common Sense

We once again come up to President’s Day, the day set aside to remember George Washington and all others who followed in his footsteps to serve our nation as President. Originally being based on George Washington’s birthday (February 22nd), it was combined with Abraham Lincoln’s birthday (February 12th) to create a single national holiday to remember all Presidents - both good and bad; popular and unpopular.

It is common for us to fall into the partisan trap and like or dislike particular Presidents over the ages, but like them or not, all of these men took on a position which takes over the life of the individual for four years, requiring them to make many tough decisions which usually are unpopular for particular segments of society. Additionally, they face attempts on their lives as well as public scrutiny for every aspect of their past. As such, many well-qualified individuals refuse to step up to the plate and take their chances as a candidate for the office.

But we find ourselves in yet another election year, and four brave souls have put themselves into the national (and international) limelight in the attempt of becoming President. While we can all find faults with Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, John McCain, and Mike Huckabee, let us pause and remember that next year, one of these four people will be President and doing their best to make this nation better in their own way while facing harsh crowds and armchair quarterbacks on both sides of the aisle.

So in the honor of George Washington, let us put aside our biases and personal grievances with whomever is elected next year, if for only a day, and give them the praise and respect that they deserve.