Yesterday evening, I posted a quote from George Washington’s first inaugural address.

It struck me as supremely relevant in the current whirlwind, given the current economic and political hardships in which we find ourselves mired.  Especially considering the aftermath of courage, chaos and hardship that led to that address from Gen. Washington.

In response to the quote, Millineryman profoundly said:

After reading the quote and detaching myself from this mess, I realize that the people who started this experiment must’ve have been faced with a lot of the uncertainty that we have now.

They had no idea what was ahead, self-reliance was a necessity, and they had to fight to create freedom and prosperity. They rose to challenge, and set an example for us to follow.

We can race to the bottom, or rise to the top. It’s our choice, and we have to be diligent in our daily life not to betray the intent of the people who gave us the opportunity to create our own destiny.

So true, on so many levels — not just politically but also in our personal lives as well.

My granny used to say that who you are shines brightest when no one is looking over your shoulder. And nothing tests that more profoundly than tough times.

So, this morning, I thought we could all use a little pull-together-ness, and some community support. Because it’s been that sort of week where a little kindness, some sincere decency and a smidgen of real compassion can go a long, long way toward clearing out the clouds. Pull up a chair…