Remember Gumby? Created in the early 1950s, the little green “bendy” became a cultural icon. Mass-produced in Hastings, Minn. until about 1971, he won himself an Emmy in 2008 and appeared in a number of television ads, including a Super Bowl commercial in 2009.
The fact that Gumby’s creator Art Clokey, a southern California college student, made Gumby transformable is what endeared the timeless classic toy to folks of all ages. After all, he’s submissive, moldable, and capable of being shaped by applying even the slightest amount of pressure.
Isn’t that the very definition of malleability: capable of being altered or controlled by outside forces or influences? At least that’s how lexicographer, Webster, characterizes it.
Being putty in the hands of others may be attractive in a toy; however, in a person in whom we place our trust, a person to be relied upon, appearing ”manageable” should be cause for concern. People that are so malleable or directionless that they willingly yield to the whims of others, is not kids’ stuff.
One should take note of those who advocate for electing public officials who exhibit Gumby-like traits.
We need people of principle, of character, those willing to take a stand on important tough issues that will affect the future of Cook County.
John Quincy Adams, nicknamed “Old Man Eloquent,” had been brought up for a life of public service as the son of John and Abigail Adams. Serving as the sixth president of the United States, he held, “Always vote for principle, though you may vote alone.”
Adams found out quickly there are those who are uncomfortable with elected officials who demonstrate they will not waver from principle; will not succumb to the constant hammering and pressure applied by those who, all too often, do not represent the will of the people they’ve been elected to represent.
When asked by his Massachusetts neighbors to run for Congress, Adams – considered one of the most intelligent men to ever step into the White House – agreed on two conditions: one is that he would always follow his conscience and the other is that he would not solicit their votes.
Thomas Jefferson, who defeated John Quincy Adams’ father in 1800 in his bid for a second term as president, advised, “In matters of style, swim with the current; in matters of principle, stand like a rock.”
Jefferson fully appreciated this was not an easy task, acknowledging, “A government regulating itself by what is wise and just for the many, uninfluenced by the local and selfish views of the few who direct their affairs, has not been seen, perhaps, on earth.”
Jefferson’s words are discerning, but also disheartening, from a man whose writings reveal a refined political philosophy.
Before I wrap this up, there is one redeeming quality Gumby exhibits that I would encourage public servants acquire, and that is the ability to “bend over backwards” on behalf of those they’ve been elected to represent.
Maybe next week I’ll tackle analogies using other nostalgic toys like Slinky or Mr. Potato Head.
Former Cook County Commissioner Garry Gamble is writing this ongoing column about the various ways government works.
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