Edwards - Repairing America's Reputation
I attended the Iraq War Forum with John Edwards held by the Seacoast Media Group. I saw a man with a command of facts, reasoned arguments; a conviction of what is right and wrong, a willingness to listen to different and opposing views, strong communication skills and the ability to use these tools to discern the right path for America.
When questioned about repairing America’s damaged reputation around the world because of the actions we have taken in Iraq, Senator Edwards’ answer was refreshingly honest and direct. Stop doing the wrong things that have led to this dark impression of America. Close Guantanamo Bay. Stop torturing suspects and enemy combatants. Stop illegal spying on our own citizens. Do the right things that will show what we’re good at. Help Iraq find their political solution. Stop human rights abuses at home before we can ask other countries to stop theirs. Show them how educating children now matters to the future. Offer assistance, don’t force it. Bring other countries to the table to help.
Edwards believes the next President needs to communicate to the world what we Americans are really like. We are not greedy, selfish bullies. We are a land full of diversity, opportunity, unselfishness with the ability to lead others toward mutually responsible, obtainable, achievements. This is what motivates him and what informs his policies. It is based on the reality of what America and its people have to offer. It’s based on the reality of Edwards' life. It is the reality of my life. If you’re willing to work, anything can happen and if we all work together, more can happen. You can sit around waiting for someone else to make changes, but if you don’t like what you see, get up and do something about it. When John Edwards spoke on Wednesday, that is what I heard and what motivates me to work towards his election.