A Portrait of Grace and Dignity

                        Grace and Dignity from an American President

                   The multiple thousands of delegates, from all across the far-flung corners of America and gathered in a Chicago arena, were quiet and expectant. Enfused with a new vigor and excitement from the emergence of a rising comet of a presidential candidate in Vice President Kamala Harris, they were alive with electoral fervor. Yet, now they were quiet. They felt that they were in the presence of greatness.

Joseph R. Biden, President of the United States of America, was speaking. Arguably one of the most decent and honorable men to ever hold that office, Biden was giving an emotional farewell of sorts to the electoral lists. A few short weeks ago, he had given up plans to run for re-election. It was a difficult decision for an aging Celtic Warrior who would have much preferred, like his ancestors,  to die in battle, sword raised in ascendance trying to smite an invading opponent.

The President explained that though he much loved the job of being President, he loved his country more. The emotion rippled through the crowd and left many an eye misted over. They were witnessing a greatness of character and a personal sacrifice not often seen in the Political Arena.

Even the more cynical among us, who had watched over dozens of perorations from gifted speakers, promising everything under the sun, were carried away by the pure emotion of Joe Biden’s speech. Honor, decency, self-sacrifice and a love of country prompted his decision, he asserted. It was a teachable moment that will live long in the memories of those of us who had been fortunate enough to witness the event.

Biden offered heart-felt thanks to the many who had supported him during his fifty-year career as Senator from Delaware, Vice President and then President of the United States of America. “Where else could a lad from Scranton Pa., with a pronounced stutter, end up sitting in the oval office, behind the Resolute Desk as President?” he asked, as the roar of approbation from the crowd washed over him.

“Thank you, Joe” they chanted with enthusiasm. They were watching the passing publics moments of an American icon.

Biden, in an emotion laden finale, pledged to be “The best volunteer” that the Harris/Waltz campaign would ever have. He reminded the assembled throng that we had almost lost the entire reality,  of our democratic republic in, the January sixth insurrection of 2021. “The danger is still there,” he warned, unless and an active citizenry stood in defense of America. 

The roar of the crowd increased by ascending decibels as Biden signed off with his traditional wish that “ May God Bless these United States of America and Protect our troops.”

Vice President and Democratic candidate Kamala Harris, with a family entourage, engulfed the emotionally spent Biden, expressing their love and affection for this remarkable person who had risen from the ranks of the common people. It was as  classy an exit from the lime light as we will ever see on the political stage. I consider myself fortunate to have had the experience to witness it.

Vaya Con Dios, President Biden. In the words of our ancient Celtic ancestors, “May the roads rise up to meet you and the winds be always at your back.”

                                    -30-

                                  (556 words)

                                   8/20/24

                            Joseph Xavier Martin