Country first: Too many people have forgotten that mantra

The idea of putting your country first was not actually coined by the Republican Party -- even though it is the Republicans' campaign theme this year.

Many great leaders throughout the decades -- including John F. Kennedy -- have come up with similar calls to arms. It really is just a matter of how you interpret the call.

And last night, Sen. Joe Lieberman echoed the charge -- advising American voters to choose their next president based on whom they think is best for the country, not because of partisan leanings.

And he is right.

It is sad that people have to be told to look carefully at everyone who is running for office and to choose based on qualifications and issues, not partisanship or hype. And while there are still some who cast their votes based on research and thought, unfortunately, there are still too many who simply mark a box.

And that is not how you make a good country great or a great country greater.

It is all about commitment.

And that is the real underlying message of the "Country First" theme.

It really is time for Americans to care about their country again -- and about each other.

It is about taking an interest in who is elected and what decisions are made in Washington. It is about being an informed voter ... not just a hole puncher.

It is about remembering what it means to be an American and honoring the sacrifices of the men and women who helped get us to this point. It is about not taking freedom for granted.

Will it stick? We will just have to wait and see.

Published in Editorials on September 3, 2008 11:14 AM