On this Friday - January the 20, 2017 - at approximately 12:01 p.m. EST, in accordance with the 20th Amendment to the Constitution and the certified 2016 election results, Donald J. Trump will take the oath of office as the 45th President of the United States. This simple ceremony is the hallmark of the “peaceful transfer of power.” It was heralded by liberals as the essence of American democracy when candidate Trump dared to be hesitant and cautious in his endorsement of same. Now, it is hypocritically under attack by sour grape Democrats, bewitched by what can only be diagnosed as a case of “Trump Derangement Syndrome.”
It would be so pleasant to see instead the veils of partisan rancor drop, if just for one day. It would be so encouraging to see that for just one day, the delusional blame game with the Russians be temporarily set aside. It would be so beneficial to our Nation, that for just one day, these crybabies would no longer be Democrats, no longer be Liberals, but Americans instead. It is a hope most fervently held, but dashed by the crazed conduct of those who claim so loudly to be on the side of Peace, Tolerance and Love.
The Inauguration will be solemnly begun by a diverse group of faith leaders offering readings and prayers, as per long standing tradition. These men – and women – of the clergy are from all aspects of the multicultural religious life of America, brought together not to honor the President Elect, but to give witness to and verify the role Divine Providence has had and continues to have in our National conscience. Some of the assembled ministry approved of the Electoral outcome, others did not. But in stark contrast to the pettiness of professional politicians, they place country over all else, rising up to invoke the blessings of the Almighty on the new President. Expressing the desire to see our new Leader succeed, knowing that his success will be the Country’s bounty, is the essence of true patriotism. Too bad it is lost on the short sighted and feeble minded.
The Inauguration of a new President is a cause for celebration, praise and for hope. Despite the rantings of the unhinged, Donald Trump IS the President of ALL Americans. We do not get to pick and choose, to acknowledge only the ones we like only the ones we agree with, only the ones we decide are “legitimate.” If that were the case, Obama would have a host of defectors. No, elections have consequences. The order has been changed. Adapt and go forth. Live in reality.
Congressman John Lewis, who as a result of his bravery 50 years ago, was given a public forum. Instead of leading he chose to abuse the privilege with his wild rants about the election. His prior acts of courage grants no immunity from such foolish statements. He does not look inspiring or heroic, just tired and partisan, an old line Democrat refusing to accept reality. Lewis will boycott the ceremony for the second time in 16 years, his falsehoods exposed and failing memory now refreshed. Sad, childish behavior from one whom we expect so much better. Equally shameful that more than 50 congressional Democrats – about one in five- will follow suit. By doing so, these Democrats insult not just our President Elect Trump, but us all.
Intimidation of performers at the Inauguration through threats of economic retaliation. Online ads seeking protesters, paid $2,500 a day. Promises of permanent resistance to a President Trump who has not served one hour. Such is truly unprecedented in our history, but nevertheless the realities of 2017. It is not the best or even typical of Americans as a whole. The election trauma suffered by the Left is no excuse for the renegade tactics on display. It is time to buck it up. Be an American… give the man a chance. Abraham Lincoln – the first Republican President- speaking when the country was REALLY divided, coming off the end of the Civil War, called in his Second Inaugural Address for “Malice toward none, charity toward all.” Old Abe had a great idea back then, difficult though it might have been. It is still hard, but still worth the effort. In the final analysis, we truly are all Americans, and “the Loyal Opposition” cannot just oppose, but must also be loyal. It is worth the effort to seek the heavens, not wallow in the gutter. It is our challenge. It is our duty. Be not afraid.