"If he does that, he will be the greatest man in the world."

That is what King George III said of George Washington upon learning that General Washington voluntarily gave up his control of the Continental Army.


The peaceful and voluntary release of power from one person to another was a defining moment in American history. My recollection from history class is that when George Washington handed over the reigns of power to John Adams marked the first time in history that this had occurred.


This is one of those basic tenets of America that made and continues to make this a great country. This is one of those things that people from all walks of life and political philosophies agree up.

One has seldom heard me compliment President Bush. At this time I perceive Bush understands the significance of this moment and his place in history. He seems to understand the difference between politics and people. It probably helps that he witnessed first hand the transition of power from Bush I to Clinton. The magnitude of the economic situation and our ongoing wars provide for a climate that calls for a congenial and unified transfer.