Today, we celebrate Presidents Day.  As a kid, I remember having a holiday for Lincoln’s birthday and then another one for Washington’s birthday.  Now the celebration has shifted to one day, primarily to celebrate George Washington, our first president, and all the commanders in chief, past and present.

In a time when the country is in flux about how we feel about our leaders, celebrating the highest position in the nation seems to be a distant memory.  Most celebrate the day by enjoying one of the many Presidents Day sales that seem to flood our emails and televisions.  Regardless of how you might feel about the current state of our political system, think about the gravity of leading a country.  Many of us can easily become overwhelmed with our daily routines and decision making.  It takes an incredibly motivated individual to take on the intensity of guiding a whole country!

How do we celebrate the highest position in the country?  First and foremost, our celebration shouldn’t just be focused on one day.  We are fortunate to still have a say in our government.  Despite the turmoil or doubts we may feel about the process, the best way we can honor our leaders is to show up.  Participate in elections, big and small.  A little voice is better than silence.  Speak respectfully of the government.  We may be unhappy with state or federal leaders, but hold onto the perspective that we still have freedoms in this country that others across the world are suffering without.  Negatively breeds more negativity.  When we find ourselves in political discussions, try to be the light.  Pray!  Pray for our leaders, for the president, governors, and local government position-holders. Pray for wisdom, strength, clarity, integrity and endurance.

The United States has endured despite a history spotted with uncertainty and unrest.  We are still a strong nation rooted in democracy.  Today, let’s celebrate George Washington and all the presidents who have invested into our freedoms we enjoy every day.  Their sacrifice and determination to lead us, along with the supporting networks of cabinets, committees and other elected officials, is commendable.  Place the flag on the porch and bring the remembrance of democratic freedom to the forefront of today’s Presidents Day commemoration.