(Letter to the Editor - Graphic Illustration/MetroCreativeConnection)

“The misery that is now upon us is but the passing of greed — the bitterness of men who fear the way of human progress. The hate of men will pass, and dictators die, and the power they took from the people will return to the people.” — Charlie Chaplin Jr

In our history we have always been drawn to dynamic leaders. It’s natural for us to be that way because we rather follow a person that represents our ideals than to be that leader. This can be harmless enough if our ideals are genuinely good and the leaders we choose represent those very ideals. However if our desires turn dark and compromising, we tend to choose leaders that are not good for the whole nation.

In the past decade it seems we are flocking toward leaders who are egotistical, rude, greedy and liars. The most damning attribute to these leaders are that they get away with their evil. If we choose such leaders, what can we say but that at some level we want to be greedy rude liars that not only get away with horrible things but get praised for it. We’re selling our morality to the rich and powerful to feel like we are “winning.” But what are we winning?

The rich gain more power while we lose it. Their voices get magnified while silencing ours. We lift up those who can’t be controlled, voted out or reined in at any level. Once upon a time the wealthy had to court those in government, now we are welcoming them in with open arms.

The above quote came from a larger speech from the film “The Great Dictator” in 1940. It is still very relevant today and recommend everyone read it then take a hard look at how our nation is today.

James Kendall

Parkersburg