Character: Measuring the Course

One of the marks of a great person is the willingness to stand by a higher ideal or measure than the average man. One of the things that I believe sets President George W. Bush above the crowd is his willingness to stand by his commitments and beliefs -- even in the face of opposition and attack. To some, this can be seen as a weakness.

I think it is a matter of personal integrity when you view such character as to whether it is strength or weakness. To me, a true friend is one who will stand by you no matter what. An honorable man is one who after giving his word will keep it -- even to his own detriment. Those who would change their mind at every whim or according to the most recent poll are less than a man.

It seems to be the vogue to focus on one's self-interest. It is what is taught us by television, movies, popular personalities and political candidates. It requires true character to define oneself in the realm of right and wrong. Right and wrong don't change. Circumstances can change, courses sometimes must be adjusted, but once committed one needs to stay the course even when it hurts to do so -- if it is the right thing to do.

The young Senator from Illinois has not learned that lesson. It is clear that his mindset is "all about me." It reminds me of a recent President who defined words based on whether they were in his own self interest. How could we even consider going back to that?

Political Pragmatism as Religion

There has been a lot of speculation on the web about Obama's religious beliefs. I think they can best be described as political pragmatism. If Obama claimed Islam, his chances of being elected would sink dramatically. I know this is just speculation -- but I think with a little thought, anyone in this country would agree. Claiming Christianity is certainly the better choice for a politician. Most of the voters at least claim Christianity as their religious preference.

Let me ask you -- if you had NO religious beliefs, what would be the personal compunction regarding claims to a religion that you did not truly believe? Pragmatism would dictate claiming that which would garner the most votes. Only God can judge a man's heart, but I think that there are many indicators that Mr. Obama claims Christianity merely for the name in the hope that it will appeal to Christian voters. If Muslims outnumbered Christians I suspect that his claims would be something different entirely. Do I know his heart? No. Does he know his own heart? Perhaps -- or, perhaps not. One day he will be judged just like the rest of us.