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The Man Who Would Not Be King
It was not so long ago, in an age much like today, when this land of ours was turned upside down by war. Differences of opinion were taken to the streets where there were fist-fights, riots, and terrible blood-shed. The reason? Tyranny, some said. Others insisted that we were sticking our noses into events that didn't concern us, taking place across the sea. We should stick to our own shores, working out our problems peacefully, these people said. Still others wanted to see us become part of a larger, world-wide economy more closely linked with Europe, something like conjoined twins who take a step only at the agreement of the other.
Many strong, stubborn men declared that they would have none of this asking permission of those across the sea. What did they know about being American?! They united in their dissent, and they chose a man who knew how to lead. He understood how to inspire men, and yes, women, to be willing to fight and die for their country.
He arose to a Herculean task, and he led the army against all odds. He made enemies of citizens right and left, who strongly disagreed with his views. He asked not for glory, but for freedom. Never was more than one-third of our country ever behind his cause. Most Americans wanted to stay where they were on their farms or in the cities, in the bosom of their families. Almost no one wanted to go to war. What did some country across the ocean have to do with America? Congress was nearly useless, voting for war one day, and against the next. Funding was nearly impossible to acquire.
The country was in upheaval. However, he had the support of powerful friends, who often rallied to the cause. The people found him likeable and charming. Some loved him. The troops adored him. He lost more battles than he won. He was admired by women, especially those with young children. The struggle seemed endless, but he persevered. He made mistakes, but no one was confused about his stand, even when they disagreed.
All this sounds so familiar. Surely this must be about the Vietnam War or maybe today. Actually, the year was 1776, and the leader was George Washington, a southern Virginia planter who would have preferred to tend his crops and watch his children grow. However he was called to greater things. Above all the leaders within our revolutionary cause, he was the greatest, because he could have been king. He refused. Some suggested that he could be the first "elected" king. He still refused. He said that he was willing to be president, but never king. He began a tradition of service as president for only two terms. It did not become law until after Franklin D. Roosevelt died in office during his fourth term.
Washington is a true American hero, who is, I believe, our greatest president. He was the man who would NOT be king.
Jaye Lewis is an award winning writer and contributing author to the Chicken Soup for the Soul series. Jaye lives in the mountains of Virginia with her family. Her book, Entertaining Angels, is being re-edited and will include this story. Visit Jaye's website at www.entertainingangels.org Email Jaye at jayelewis@comcast.net
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