Mike Barnhill
Ashland
Dear Editor:
The exhaustion of acting in the role of the president of the United States is illustrated in this brief description of Thomas Jefferson, third president of the United States. "You have now resigned a heavy burden," and Jefferson replied: "Yes, indeed, and I am much happier than my friend James Madison."
The trade embargo against England had devastated Jefferson's plantations in Virginia, and he had recently learned that his personal situation was dire, with debts amounting to about $20,000. It was equal to $400,000 in today's money. But he wore a brave face. "Never did a prisoner released from his chains feel such relief as I shall on shaking off the shackles of power."
Small wonder that we seldom hear a former president voice his views on a regular basis about the actions of an acting president. They all recognize it's a job few can handle well and none can make everyone happy.
When Donald Trump leaves office either in 2020 or 2024, will he also be humble enough to admit the role of president was taxing and allow his actions as president to speak louder than himself. Or will he have to put his "two cents" in on most every action of the one replacing himself. Will he assume the title of the late Muhammad Ali - "I'm The Greatest" - as president? Only time will tell, but I'd bet on Trump to call himself "The Greatest," wouldn't you?