Words to remember

The New York Times had two spot-on, memorable editorials this morning. I’ve borrowed eloquent passages from them, words I want to remember for a long time.

Of the ongoing enmity between John McCain and Donald Trump, Frank Bruni wrote, “It’s between the high road and the gutter. McCain has always believed, to his core, in sacrifice, honor and allegiance to something larger than oneself. Trump believes in Trump, and whatever wreckage he causes in deference to that god is of no concern.”

In a piece titled “Our Trump Addiction,” Nicolas Kristof wrote, “Yet I worry that our national nonstop focus on Trump is helping to usher America into a hole: a Trump obsession. The danger is that Trump sucks up all the oxygen, so that other issues don’t get adequate attention “

I particularly find the thought that Trump sucks up all the oxygen apt. I am reminded of the late-night comedian, now retired, who said we must stop listing Trump’s outrageous acts and concentrate on leading him off to a nice protected home somewhere.

We are bombarded by so many opinions—can Trump take the Fifth? Does he have to answer a subpoena? Does “under oath” mean anything to him? Is he mentally capable? A few years ago, my attitude was that wiser heads than mine would work that all out while I went merrily about my business. Now I’m not so sure—in fact, I’m pretty sure that’s not the case. But much as I study the conflicting opinions, I feel helpless, as though history is rolling over me like the lava spewing out of that volcano in Hawaii.

We hear that 75% of evangelicals now support Trump and that his base is energized, but what are the numbers? How many people approve him? Isn’t his national approval at 40%? I know one thing: no matter those numbers,  we must get out the non-voters in November. I’m sure those of us who value the American democracy outnumber those who would tear it down with hate and racism and greed.

Undeniably Trump makes good news copy, which may indeed be a deliberate plan behind his outrageousness. The media, in all its forms, is always anxious to sell stories, and so they reward him by publicizing his antics. It’s a self-feeding circle. Yes, the media should show some responsibility, but their charge is to report facts, not opinions or “fake news.” And we, as consumers, must show even more responsibility in assessing the news.

For me, it comes down to a battle between compassion and hate. What kind of country do we want to live in?

Wow! I didn’t start off to be so solemn tonight. It’s really been a lovely day, at my desk and on my patio. I’m optimistic about the world—and about most Americans.