Blog Archives
Happy Monday!
Walking through the life and career of Abraham Lincoln at his presidential museum and home in Springfield, Illinois last Thursday was a thrill. Even with a solid understanding of his legacy, there was so much to learn and admire about this giant of American history. There was one exhibit set-up across the street that housed sets and costumes from Steven Spielberg’s 2012 movie Lincoln, starring Daniel Day-Lewis. The magic of film making combined with the defining power of President Lincoln created a great experience in addition to his impressive museum.
In the movie, there’s a particularly towering moment that captures Lincoln’s persuasive skill at getting tough things done, against all odds.
(Turn the volume up)
Achieve Something Great Now!
The State of Denial
“In Iraq and Syria, American leadership — including our military power — is stopping ISIL’s advance.”
–President Obama, 2015 State of the Union Address
Just weeks following the devastating terrorist attacks in Paris, France by radical Islamists (a phrase he again refused to say), followed by terror raids made across Europe, and President Obama strangely took the view that the United States is clearly winning in foreign policy. Specifically, this was concerning the battle against overseas violence/disgruntled workplace violence/extremists who aren’t in any way motivated and inspired by a perversion of a very specific religion.
Does he fully understand our enemy?
Thomas Friedman had some insight into this subject in his recent article, “Say It Like It Is.” Instead of listing the various problem spots and scenarios around the world, it’s probably better to let America’s Middle East savant Richard Engel of NBC News react to what he heard from the president on the foreign policy front.
President Reagan didn’t just perfectly articulate the phrase, “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!” that became a historical moment for the world. He always led with words and actions of strength. He clearly understood the problems facing the United States. He was cognizant of the importance and relevance of American leadership at home and on the world stage to his friends and enemies.
Neither of which seems to be the reality today.
James Taylor may be a very busy man during the next couple years…
Jimmy's Daily Planet 