Monday, September 7, 2009

The Bully Pulpit

That's what Teddy Roosevelt called the presidency. When the man at the top speaks, people listen.

Tomorrow our president will address the nation's public school students, encouraging them to strive for excellence; to be responsible; to stay in school; to listen to the adults in their lives. I read the speech and it's my opinion that here is good use of the bully pulpit.

Especially among the black American community President Obama is a role model, as is his family. I find it refreshing that he is communicating with our student population (although my guess is he'll lose the younger ones quickly) about being their best.

But I do have a question. Will the liberals like the ACLU renounce his speech because (in our public schools!!) he will say the words, "God bless you and God bless America"? I think not; at least not this time.

I'll be doing some substitute teaching this year in our public schools. I wonder what response I would get if at the end of each class I said goodbye to the students with a "God bless you"? Now that our president has set the precedent, I just may give it a whirl.

But because I speak from a different pulpit I think I'll get censured. What do you think?

3 comments:

Unknown said...

Oh I would LOVE to see the looks on their faces when you countered with that argument! But I'm sure you would have a fight on your hands!

I think the speech is a good one, and I think you're TOTALLY right about loosing the little guys REAL quick, but while I don't agree with his politics, I do admire his drive, and I want my girls to see how you can overcome a tough beginning.

Rick Lawrenson said...

Well done, Mr. President.
It's tough trying to communicate to 5 year olds and 18 year olds at the same time. My guess is that you kept the high schoolers with you.

My kindergarten nephew probably got lost after "How's everybody doing?".

Speaking to a group of little kids is overwhelming to me. Adults are way easier.

Debs said...

I think you would be remiss in not saying God Bless You at the end of each class. The President wants students to follow his example, so feel free to do just that!

I am so excited that the President has brought God back into our schools!!!