Imagine riding from Braintree, Massachusetts to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania… on a horse! Then imagine embarking on such a journey in the dead of winter, during a snowstorm. Who would do such a thing, and why?
The “who” was John Adams. The “why” was because that’s how vital Adams’ presence was to the Continental Congress. Adams, Jefferson, and Franklin, along with an assist from Thomas Paine, made up the spearhead in America’s quest for independence. Jefferson provided the intellectual arguments; Franklin lent his philosophy and wisdom. Franklin and Jefferson’s roles were undeniably vital, but without Adams’ searing passion and emotional thrust, the initiative might have fallen short.
So, a man, small by the standards of any era but with a huge heart, undertook a journey that most, irrespective of the century, would consider insane. Adding a little levity: I don’t suppose there were any mail-in ballots 250 years ago? Moreover, I wonder what Mr. Adams would think of Door Dash and Uber Eats.
Michael's Corner 
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