Try A Little Kindness

The presidential campaign in 1976 was a bitter one pitting the incumbent, Gerald R. Ford, against the challenger, Georgia Gov. Jimmy Carter. Ford was named vice president after the resignation of Spiro Agnew, and became president after the resignation of Richard Nixon, making him our only unelected vice president and president.

Within weeks of his swearing-in, Ford issued a controversial pardon for the former president. He argued the time for healing had come, and he didn't want to put the nation through further political anguish.

North Carolina Sen. Sam Ervin, known for his quips, suggested that Ford did something even God doesn't do-forgive someone without repentance! But the pardon was done, and Nixon began the slow climb back to influence, becoming a counselor to other presidents, including Reagan and Clinton.

The long and bitter '76 campaign came to an end when Carter eked out a two-point victory.

President Carter stood before the nation on Inauguration Day and his first words were, "For myself and for our nation, I want to thank my predecessor for all he has done to heal our land."

Carter continued to offer a hand of friendship to Ford. He gave regular briefings to the former president, and whenever Ford was in the capital he was invited to have lunch with Carter.

In their post-presidencies the men shared in some 25 benevolent projects raising awareness and raising funds for worthy causes.

One day Ford called Carter with a request.

"Jimmy," he said, "I want you to speak at my funeral."

Carter, a bit surprised, replied, "Yes, but with one condition. If I die first, you'll speak at my funeral."

The final of the three funeral events for Ford was at Grace Episcopal Church in his native Grand Rapids on Jan. 3, 2007. Carter began his remarks once again, "For myself and for our nation, I want to thank my predecessor for all he has done to heal our land."

Political seasons are normally intense and 2024 was no different. Obviously some strong feelings remain. All one has to do is survey social media to see this. Some talk about moving to another country and some talk about vanquishing those who didn't support their candidate in every way. But the greatness of America is our brotherhood and sisterhood, inheritors of the same red blood-the blood of patriots and other brave defenders of freedom.

It's reported that Gen. U.S. Grant said after Gettysburg, "Those on both sides were Americans, and united, need not fear any foreign foe."

Every follower of Christ should implore God in prayer for the protection of our great land, his wisdom for our leaders and our steadfast respect for the convictions of others. -30-

"Reflections" is a weekly faith column written by Michael J. Brooks, pastor of the Siluria Baptist Church, Alabaster, Alabama. The church's website is siluriabaptist.com.