The Example of John Edwards

How blessed we are to live in America! As we had the opportunity in Utah to vote for our favorite candidate this last Tuesday I was reminded of that.

I have been learning some lessons about people and leadership throughout this whole 2008 Presidential campaign. One lesson surprised me. It had to do with Democratic presidential candidate John Edwards. When he announced that he was withdrawing from the race, I cried--and I wasn't even going to vote for him. So why was I crying?

I believe that during his announcement that he was leaving the race was the first time it became clear to me that for John Edwards the Presidential race wasn't about him--it was about people, especially those in need. He had said in his campaign speeches that win or lose the Edwards family would be fine; his concern was for America. But the fact that he "walked his talk" and immediately focused his energies on Habitat for Humanity after his withdrawal solidified for me his sincerity that his campaign truly was about people.

In my eyes John Edwards has won. He may do more good for our country than the candidate who wins the Presidential Election. May he be an example for all of us--remembering that the causes in which we are involved are never about us....... And whether we win or lose a battle must never be an excuse not to get to work on what we can do to serve.