|
July 7, 2008
July 4th was a fitting day to say goodbye to one of America's conservative lions. The passing of Jesse Helms highlights the day when one man, 'Senator No', was able to stand firm and make a difference beyond the limitations of his minority position, traditional paths to power, and the 'go along to get along' politics of modern America.
Regardless of political persuasion, most North Carolinians around during Jesse's active years have a lingering touch of his influence on memory or deed. My own imprint centers on his resistance to compromise on matters of principle. Like Jefferson and others who believed that compromise had more to do with surrender and self-service than statesmanship, Senator Helms stood firm for decades through America's progressive drift toward the temptations of socialism. Time has proven he was more often right than wrong in his stubborn resistance to situational ethics, the muddy middle, and popularity over principle.
Senator No has passed, but that does not mean his message is no longer relevant. In fact, as the difference between parties blurs and we see principle persistently betrayed for other priorities, his relevance grows more crucial. The 'American Dream' will never have a time when patriots with the courage to walk the road less traveled no long matter.
There are many ways to honor this gentleman's memory, but I can think of no better means than a rededication to his mission - a "no compromise" focus on the principles of our founding fathers. Their touch blessed America with a chart toward destiny. Jesse Helms showed us how to hold firmly to that unique potential. Now it is our turn.
Carl Mumpower
11th District Republican Congressional Candidate
Principle before party, power, popularity - always.
|
