First in the Hearts of His Countrymen

For John, BLUF:  If we are to become a better nation, it needs to be based on something—I recommend the efforts of the founding fathers.  Nothing to see here; just move along.

---

It's George Washington's Birthday

Here is the sub-headline:

He was the greatest American. Don't settle for less.

From Don surber Substack, by Reporter Don Surber, 19 February 2024.

Here is the lede plus three:

“First in war, first in peace and first in the hearts of his countrymen.  He was second to none in the humble and endearing scenes of private life; pious, just, humane, temperate and sincere; uniform, dignified and commanding, his example was as edifying to all around him, as were the effects of that example lasting.

“To his equals he was condescending; to his inferiors kind; and to the dear object of his affections exemplarily tender:  Correct throughout, vice shuddered in his presence, and virtue always felt his fostering hand; the purity of his private character gave effulgence to his public virtues.”

— Henry “Light Horse” Lee.

In that first sentence, Lee summed up the the life of the man who transformed America from a collection of British colonies to independent states that formed what is now called the United States.  I saw a meme on Twitter the other day.  It showed Trump:  Make America Great Again.  Above him was Lincoln:  Make America Great.  Above him was Washington:  Make America.  Only the Lord stood above him with the simple word:  Make.  How true.

Yes, he is.

We are a nation of humans, and thus a nation with flaws,  Yet, George Washington stands out in striving to form a more perfect union, to bring all of us together.  Not that it was perfect.  Nor is it yet perfect, but he lead those who put us on the path.

Stay on the Path.

Regards  —  Cliff