The Audacity of Hopelessness

The Audacity of Hopelessness – New York Times

The Audacity of Hopelessness is a well written editorial piece.  As I read it, I couldn’t help but agree with many of the assessments.  What struck me most of all, however, was the personal side of the equation.  No matter how you feel about the candidates, Democrat, GOP, indie, one has to admire their courage and willingness to put it out there.

Not only have each of the candidates achieved some notable accomplishments in their lifetimes, they are educated, intelligent people.  One does not rise to the level of a U.S. Presidential candidate without something significant on their resume.   Whether you agree with a candidate or not, at least we can respect them.

As I read the above noted opinion piece, I was struck by the personal courage required to put yourself out there.  The criticism, second-guessing, and insults come at the candidate like water out of a fire hose.  Affirmations are few and far between, but there is an unlimited supply of criticism.

As one who has usually succeeded in the tasks I go after, I’ve also counted a few failures in my lifetime.  It isn’t easy to fail.  It hurts and as a broken human, I often wonder if my reputation will ever be restored.  Though I’ve moved on, and I actually admire myself for taking a risk on something that was not a slam-dunk, some will never let me forget those failures.

I told my wife a few weeks ago that Hillary has lost the “spark” and that her campaign was virtually over.  Many are now saying this.  Still, I can’t help but have some empathy for her in these waning days.  It is hard to say “Uncle.”