Michael's Corner

The Statesman was a Bad-Ass

Daily writing prompt
If you could meet a historical figure, who would it be and why?
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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 DeStefano
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2 responses to “The Statesman was a Bad-Ass”

  1. abn4eternity Avatar
    abn4eternity

    I have to say, walking across the countryside in the heat and cold is pretty badass as well. I know of this one man, years ago, who went from town to town talking to those who would listen, trying to get them to become active in their communities and have a relationship with their neighbors. He was hated by many and loved by others. Jefferson, Adams, Franklin, and their pals were hated by many, hunted by the government, and had death sentences placed upon them. Without their sacrifices, where would we be today? Where would we be without those who stood up against what was wrong? It does not matter if those who stood up physically fought or made their voices heard, they are badass. Those who hold silently and stoically to their morals and convictions of treating everyone as their brothers and sisters, and putting others before themselves, are badass. Those in government offices that hold to what their constituents want and not to their own warped, self-serving motives are badass. But how many in power actually listen to the people? Those young men and women who helped start this nation would be appalled, in my opinion, at how this nation is today.

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  2. Michael DeStefano Avatar
    Michael DeStefano

    Agreed. The founders argued their way to solutions. Now, we have petulant children that take potshots at one another through social media.

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