Happy Independence Day!
When ranked lists of American presidents are compiled, Abraham Lincoln is usually found sitting at the top of the list. Less frequently, he earns second place (behind President George Washington). When asked, "Why is Lincoln number one?" the answer is a reflexive, "Well, he saved the country." This answer is good and true.
But there is more to Lincoln—the man—that makes him a role model for all Americans, even today. In my view, he possessed several qualities and achieved signal accomplishments (in addition to "saving the nation"). Most importantly, Lincoln expanded liberty and freedom to more Americans. He moved the country one (giant) step forward on its trudge towards "Liberty and Justice for All" (a march still underway).
Lincoln was possessed of character traits which may be easy to dismiss, especially under the fire of cheap attacks from political opportunists. Qualities like Perseverance: Lincoln's road to the presidency was long and twisting. Qualities like Goodness; Lincoln put the welfare of others ahead of his own popularity or self-interest. Qualities like Prudence; Lincoln deliberated and made rational decisions based on his knowledge of history, political understanding and the law. And, finally, qualities like Resolve; Lincoln pursued his decisions with the benefit of strong, well-rooted and positive qualities.
Even today we are blessed with leaders possessing the qualities of perseverance, goodness, prudence and resolve. Like in Lincoln's time, the manufactured clamor can overshadow these enduring (but critical) attributes. And today—as in Lincoln's time—the hatred and fear and emotion can make The Good Person appear weak, indecisive or out-of-date. Let's not be fooled by "popularity polls." Even Lincoln, in his day, was controversial—and despised by many partisans.
The mark of a good president—in historic terms—is how well he (and, one day, she) moved America closer to its foundational promise of Equality for All. Closer to our Pledge: "with Liberty and Justice for All." This is the true measure of a president. And, so far, Lincoln seems to be polling at the top.
Shown above, a pair of cast iron bookends with a sculpted profile of President Abraham Lincoln. The portrait is patinated with a golden bronze against a chocolate bronze background. They were made in the Twenties by Bradley & Hubbard in Meriden, Connecticut. Click on the photo above to learn more about these impressive bookends.
Though our Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed, LEO Design is still alive and well! Please visit our on-line store where we continue to sell Handsome Gifts (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
We also can be found in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, at The Antique Center of Strabane (www.antiquecenterofstrabane.com).
Or call to arrange to visit our Pittsburgh showroom (by private appointment only). 917-446-4248