Rules for Presidents
The Rules for Presidents
Cape Gazette for 1-23-09
Teachers usually know best when it comes time to set down some rules: after all our jobs depend upon us establishing order and respect within the walls of our classrooms every day. This goes for preschoolers, middle schoolers, high schoolers and as well as Presidents of the United States. So President Obama, at this historic juncture in our nation’s history, the beginning of your new term of office, it is time to listen to the sage wisdom of teachers. We know what works best and what tenets to live by. Here is your very own set of Rules for Presidents to help guide you on your way.
Rule One: BE ON TIME. Don’t think that because you are important and that you have many Secret Service people surrounding you, that you have the right to keep others waiting. A respectful president takes into consideration the needs of others, so show up on time. We will tolerate no tardiness.
Rule Two: BE PREPARED. Do your homework, study your notes, analyze, synthesize and categorize the data before your formulate your decisions. Take on difficult, complicated issues with the advisement of a wide variety of advisors. Be generous with compassion but cautious with consequences that have far reaching outcomes.
Rule Three: BE CONSIDERATE. Think about others. Listen to them and involve them in your decisions. Respect the opinions of others even if you do not agree. Reach out and communicate with your people and the leaders and citizens of other nations. Respect the earth. Find ways to preserve, protect and defend our planet and make it a better place for your daughters and my sons.
Rule Four: BE TRUSTWORTHY. Make promises and keep them. Tell the truth whether or not it is popular. Tell us the difficult things as well as the sweet. Be a leader we can believe and trust. Infuse your character with honesty and integrity. Remember, actions speak louder than words so say what you mean and mean what you say.
Rule Five: MAKE GOOD CHOICES. Realizing that good is not always popular and prudent is not always admired, before you take us down the road to war, or launch us into conflict, think about what the consequences will be. Consider history. What did other leaders do who were faced with difficult situations? What are all the options and what will decision will serve the greatest good?
President Obama, these rules will help you govern our country with intelligence and dignity. As you are so fond of pointing out, we are not just Republican or Democrat, red or blue states, black or white, urban or rural, gay or straight, Christian or Jewish. We are the United States of America. We are one nation. Together we face an uncertain future. You are the leader of the free world. All eyes are upon you as you struggle with very difficult, complicated issues. The world is your classroom. Your assignments are not easy. Be the best you can be every day and we will stand behind you.
