As we approach the first anniversary of January 6, much has been said about the fragility of democracy and the importance of citizenship – two great ideals imperiled in recent times.
As a student of history, with a fascination in the American Presidency, my mind has of late frequently returned to childhood memories about Richard Nixon.
Brief snippets of conversation included: “The Nixon Scandal” and “Watergate” and “That Old Crook”. Growing up, I saw Richard Nixon more as a statesman searching for redemption, and eventually as an example of “grace accepting defeat”. In hindsight, I saw a man of faith amidst trials of his own creating (he was a Quaker who prayed on his knees). He became – I must admit – a person of fascination. Here was a deeply flawed yet brilliant mind – whose lust for power was finally eclipsed by inevitability, a love of country, and some inherent sense of undeniable right and wrong.
Visiting his presidential library in 2019 can be a pilgrimage of sorts on many levels. I continue to be moved by this closing video (quickly filmed in the foyer before moving onto the grounds of the complex) which is outdated today – yet somehow reflects a decency of spirit to which I pray we have begun to return. The time has come for all of us to step up and work anew for the greater good – embracing our best hopes and most generous of dreams – for one another.
I will subtitle the video “How It’s Done” – of which you may make what you will…
“From the Evening of a Splendid Day”
Richard Nixon’s Farewell Message
Yorba Linda, California Filmed: March 2019 – KPS