Here are a few thoughts on what makes a good president. The best candidate must put service before self. He or she must view the job as an opportunity to make the lives of ordinary citizens a little better, a little safer—to give everyone an equal chance to better themselves and their children.
Each applicant must be able to see both sides of an issue and not be quick to vilify those who disagree. Being a good listener is essential. A qualified candidate must accept compromise as a constructive way to resolve difficult issues, must be willing to speak the truth even when the truth is unpleasant or unpopular and must have the ability to accept criticism when it is deserved as well as a willingness to admit mistakes.
Patience and self-control are essential qualities in a president. He or she must be willing to oppose discrimination based on race, religion, ethnicity, health, gender and sexual preference.
A president should have a compassionate heart for the widow, the orphan and the stranger. He or she must believe that every life, no matter how humble, has value and that everyone is entitled to fairness and justice. The person must view the job of president as an opportunity to make the American Dream—life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness—accessible to all.
