I typically have great respect for the opinions of my sage friend Jake Hjorth and those of Commissioner Garry Gamble, but in their recent “ Letters to the Editor” submissions concerning the pertinence of views on religion once held by President George Washington, both gentlemen make frivolous points.
Granted, Washington was a pivotal figure in the birth of our nation, but hardly your first “go to guy” in matters of religion. Why would his personal convictions with regards to religion be any more relevant today than those, if asked, he would hold dear concerning segregation, women’s suffrage or gay rights? Even in his true area of expertise, military strategy, his opinions would now seem archaic.
Old George likely thought tobacco use was a good thing, but as the Virginia Slims cigarette advertisement once proclaimed: “We’ve Come A Long Way Baby!”
I doubt that WWWD…What Would Washington Do?…bumper stickers are going to be a big seller.
Washington’s religious beliefs are about as germane today as those of our contemporary political leaders, despite which side of the theological fence they hold court.
Opposing sides of any religious argument are in all probability both wrong.
Bob LaMettry
Grand Marais
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