Yesterday was Election Day 2018, and today I’m sick of it all. I’m tired of hearing conspiracy theories and defenses of immoral behavior and excuses because of who is currently in the White House.
If you thought it was wrong when the Democrats did it, but now think it’s okay when the Republicans do it, then you are part of the reason the GOP is drowning in hypocrisy.
I thought we were better than this.
I grew up in the church. The teachings of moral character came directly from the Bible with guidance from our Sunday School teachers. We strived then, and now, to live a life that included integrity, courage, fortitude, honesty, patience, faithfulness, respect, responsibility, humility, compassion, loyalty, perseverance, optimism, generosity, politeness, kindness, lovingness, and reliability … traits that are goals to practice every day.
President Abraham Lincoln was a role model for integrity and honesty. His examples of good character traits are legendary, qualities that stayed with him through his life. They were instrumental as he led the country through the dark days of war. It was a time when a person’s character was a highly-regarded quality.
Before Lincoln, President George Washington was known for his character and leadership, and believed highly in the importance of civility which meant basic respect for everyone. As a Virginia school boy, he wrote his Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior, a list of 110 commonsense directives to guide him in life and in the company of others. Many still adhere to his rules to this day.
The good traits of character, if we believe some, are irrelevant in today’s world. I disagree. They are perhaps more important now than at any time in the past. Light the path for others and be an example. And keep in mind the words of C. S. Lewis: “Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.”
Tonight I’m tired of it all, and sincerely hope we do not lose our moral compass.
“But be doers of the word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” -James 1:22
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