Heralding prudence on historic 200th birthday of Lincoln
James Wegmann
Issue date: 2/12/09 Section: Opinion
In his 1842 address to the Washington Temperance Society, Lincoln implored reformers to embrace a benevolent disposition, so that they might sway hearts and minds. "Persuasion, kind, unassuming persuasion should ever be adopted." But Lincoln understood that sometimes persuasion becomes impossible. By April 12, 1861, the temperament of a divided nation required blood. Again, Lincoln pursued the just end - preserving the Constitutional Union while placing "slavery in the course of ultimate extinction" - through judicious means. The archetype of statesmanship, Lincoln guarded the highest aims of our political community.
Hillsdale students, eager to nail themselves to what Churchill called a "cross of action," would do well to study Lincoln's life. Our time here points us toward certain transcendent principles. When we enter the world, prudence must dictate our course. Our trials are not Lincoln's. Yet we must respond to our challenges as Lincoln responded to his: prudently. Today we celebrate Lincoln's 200th birthday.
Hillsdale students, eager to nail themselves to what Churchill called a "cross of action," would do well to study Lincoln's life. Our time here points us toward certain transcendent principles. When we enter the world, prudence must dictate our course. Our trials are not Lincoln's. Yet we must respond to our challenges as Lincoln responded to his: prudently. Today we celebrate Lincoln's 200th birthday.
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