Editor:
Each of us will eventually own three names. The first name is given at birth; the second we create each living day and, finally, the third we are remembered by after we are gone.
When Abraham Lincoln was 24 years old, he served as the postmaster of New Salem, Ill., for an annual salary of $55.70. Even then, 24 years before he entered the White House, the rail-splitter gained the character that earned him the title of “Honest Abe.”
Years after the post office had closed, an agent came to Washington to settle accounts with the former Postmaster Lincoln, who was then a struggling lawyer barely earning a living.
“Honest Abe” was informed that there remained $17.00 due the government. On hearing that, Lincoln opened an old trunk and took out a yellow cotton rag tied together by a string. He untied the cloth and there was the $17.00, held in safe-keeping all these years.
“I never use any man’s money but my own,” he said.
Through these many years, the word “politician” has gained a repulsive reputation. But, tell me if you can, where is the American mother who has failed to praise to her son the wondrous accomplishments of Washington, Lincoln or Patrick Henry? All politicians.
Blessed is any man who may finally be remembered as another “Honest Abe.”
The Rev. T. H. Vogel
Sweet Home