Winning Words 12/31/10
“A love of tradition has never weakened a nation, but the new view must come. The world must roll forward.” (Churchill) I think that these words by Sir Winston are worth considering as we say goodbye to 2010 and roll forward into 2011. Every year seems to be a test. Which traditions shall we hold on to? And which shall we abandon in order to move forward? To know the difference is a challenge. ;-) Jack

FROM SH IN MICHIGAN: Joan, Jerry and I just celebrated an early New Years, playing cards all night. We agreed we want to keep Bible study and prayer, that will really strengthen our churches. Now we're going to sleep wondering if we've solved any of the world's problems.

FROM RI IN BOSTON: Winston Churchill was such a study in contrasts. Above all he was truly a leader. Upon his death, while we lived in London we were among the tens of thousands who passed his casket, the least tribute we could pay to a great man. England is a country that clings to tradition, which may not weaken it but I believe it does restrain it from greater achievement. Churchill clearly realized that. FROM JACK: Churchill was the leader that England (and the Allies) needed during WW2. At least the monarchy allowed him to lead. He wasn't perfect, but maybe that's what makes a good leader. MORE FROM RI: Churchill covered so much ground during his lifetime...from philosophy to social criticism to art to humor. I liked his response when he was criticized for ending sentences with a preposition: "That's an attitude up with which I will not put."

FROM MOLINER CF: Traditions don't hold us back; interpretations do. FROM JACK: That's an interesting thought. Where are you going with it?

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY: There are many traditions which enhance and enrich. To remove them just because they are traditions makes no sense. We will continue to observe and uphold those which enhance and enrich our lives. We will add new and exciting "changes" if they fix, but not if it's change for change sake. I've never understood that at all! FROM JACK: That's what Churchill and I said. I'm glad that you agree.

FROM MO IN ILLINOIS: W. Churchill was a complex character. He certainly was interesting, and often wise. The picture you get of him in NO ORDINARAY TIME by Doris Goodwin, is quite different from the hero of a WWII nation! I suspect both have truth. He is much admired. Yes, what traditions are important to retain...? I imagine our views do not jive with the present generation! I do wish personal integrity were more practiced and admired. It seems to go begging in H.S. and Colleges and business many times, any more...Here's praying for a GREAT 2011! FROM JACK: Since none of us is perfect, I suppose that goes for leaders, too. I would rather concentrate on the positive aspects of one's character. Integrity...so valuable...so fragile.