Working Together

For John, BLUF:  We, as a nation, are closely divided.  We need to look for ways to work together.  Nothing to see here; just move along.

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History proves that Americans can unite even when torn in two

From The New York Post, by Salena Zito, 7 April 2018.

Here is the lede plus five:

APPOMATTOX, VA. — On April 9, 1865, Gen. Robert E. Lee strode onto the porch of a two-story brick home and stared out at a lawn filled with Union soldiers, his Confederate staff of two, and his horse Traveler.

Still wearing full military dress, Lee raised his gloved hands and punched his left fist into his right palm.  The sound of leather meeting leather echoed in the unsteady silence.

Then, as Lee mounted Traveler, Major Gen. Ulysses S. Grant emerged from the house onto the porch.

Now facing each other, Grant raised his hat, as did Lee. It wasn’t a salute, but clearly an acknowledgment of the moment.

As Lee turned towards the dirt road and headed east towards his troops, the 198th Pennsylvania Infantry played “Auld Lang Syne.”

The Civil War was over.

The resolution wasn't perfect, but General Grant was magnanimous.

Here is the end of the article:

As the two generals waited for their treaty to be prepared in McLean’s parlor, Grant introduced Lee to his staff, including Lt. Col. Ely Parker, a Seneca Indian, who later recalled their exchange.

“It’s good to see one real American here today,” Lee told him.

“General, we are all Americans today,” Parker replied.

Grant and Lee understood that a divided nation is a toxic nation — and that moment 153 years ago should serve as a reminder for all of us, to not just look to the bad and condemn, but to look to the good and apply it to our lives today.

We need to remember, as Americans, that things have been worse, but, working as one nation we have improved our lives.  We are not perfect, but we have come a long way, together.

Hat tip to the InstaPundit.

Regards  —  Cliff