Dennis Norwood
Dear leaders of the United States,
Please reflect on the words that were spoken yesterday during the funeral service for President George H.W. Bush. Take them into your heart and measure yourself, using the yardstick of the servant leader our country laid to rest.
Measure your words and actions by the example 41 set by putting country ahead of self. Take that first step and reach across the aisle.
Do what’s right for the nation, not your party. You were elected to govern not sling mud, hatred and vitriol.
Republican and Democrat, recall the wise words of former Senator Alan Simpson, “Hatred corrodes the vessel in which it’s carried.”
It also corrodes your ability to govern and, in turn, our nation.
Pray daily. Seek guidance from above.
Use the example of George H.W. Bush and reach down to pull up those who are down and suffering. Stop kicking and start hugging.
Be loyal, not so much to your political party, but to your family, your friends, your nation and your constituents.
Do what is right, not what is convenient.
Be a statesman, govern with love, care and respect. Remember, as Mr. Spock once said, “The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few.”
However, never forget the few. They are people, too, and their needs have value.
Stay true to our Constitution. It has served our country well and been a guide through both good and dark times.
Be a mother or dad that your children can be proud of and respect.
Just as 41 did, be inclusive. Be tolerant. But, never stray from your values.
Treat your constituents as you would your own family.
Travel that high road of humility. A little more traffic would be a good thing.
Work to be that millionth point of light. The glow will warm our nation.
In the words of GHWB, “Don’t be afraid to fail, but, don’t live in failure or accept it as a lifestyle.”
As Reverend Doctor Russell Levenson, Jr, said, “Love God, love your neighbor. There is no greater mission on earth. Preach Christ always, and, if necessary, use words.”
There is more that could be said, but I hope you get the point.
In a world of staunch partisanship, look to the life and example of our late President and find ways to take our country forward.
If you will, our future will be “ceiling and visibility unlimited.”
Dennis Norwood