Over two hundred years ago, George Washington refused to run for a third term as President of the United States. He had run unopposed the first two terms. He was held in such esteem that he probably could have continued to serve as President until his death. Instead, he chose to set a precedent that continues to this day.
(I know, we had a brief detour when Franklin D. Roosevelt ran for and won third and fourth terms during WWII. But the precedent was of such importance in people's minds that, following Roosevelt's death in office, Congress passed the 22nd Amendment to limit U.S. presidents to two terms.)
Today, our world is filled with evil or foolish old men who refuse to let go of power once they have it. On this 4th of July, our 235th birthday, I'm grateful that I live in a country where we can take for granted this peaceful transfer of power.
Good reminder of one of the MANY reasons we are blessed to live here. Thoughtful post -- Thank you!
ReplyDelete