More Thoughts on Lincoln/Obama Connection

Similarities:

Lanky
Thin
Big ears
Morally serious
Sudden big smile
Disarming ability to talk like common man
Good with stories
Raised by mom figure (stepmom for Abe), without close relationship with dad
Self-doubts during youth
Christianity was choice not epiphany, but employed religious language in speeches when useful
Discussed process of reasoning aloud
Cool, cerebral style, but also great speeches
Comfortable in skin
Competitive
Unifier
Does not hold grudges
Infuriates people who have repressed doubts, or driven by ideology or false certainties
Recognized by people with serious intent to do good
Not afraid of war, but not eager for it either
Illinois - Springfield connection
Risks of assassination
Young children
Wife is outspoken, strong-willed
Impossible to ruffle
Disorganized in terms of filing, organizing papers, etc.
Slow thought process grounded in first principles
See both sides
Moral ambiguity
Moral modesty
Resolute once decided upon a course
Interested in fairness

Differences:
Born in different centuries?

Comments

[neighbor John]

Tom,
We have spoken briefly, but I want to reinforce my support for your words and opinions. It has been my observation, both in politics and in business, that leaders are often selected for their certainty on issues. These are the "virtues" of strength that provide reassurance to the public. Unfortunately, it is frequently true that those most certain can be most wrong, with resulting bad consequences. GW Bush and R Cheney are classic examples of these dangerous characteristics. While Lincoln was the "first' Republican President, his characteristics were very different from those of our present leaders. Obama is such a breath of fresh air. He has the potential to become as pivotal a leader as Lincoln. I hope for the sakes of our children and grand children, that he is politically successful, and that he fulfills the promise.
Neighbor John

[Democratdad]

Thanks for your comments John!