Celebrate progress, avoid negativity

One of the sorriest trends I have noted in recent times is the tendency of some people to denigrate outstanding individuals - not on the basis of something bad that they have done, but rather on the basis of something good that they have accomplished.

Examples of this sort of activity include the treatment of John Kerry who, as a candidate for president, was criticized harshly when he placed himself in harm's way to fight in Vietnam, while many of his critics avoided this conflict in any way possible (see Swift boat issue). Or consider Steve Jobs, whose innovations propelled Apple into a powerhouse in the computer industry only to be relieved of all his duties at Apple, until it became obvious later that this was a very stupid move. Or, consider President Barack Obama, who opened the door of opportunity for all to receive adequate health care only to be accused of nearly every possible political malfeasance short of treason. Maybe treason was included as well.

The point is, it is incredibly shortsighted and self-defeating to attempt to bring down to the level of the mediocre and uninspired those rare, brave and innovative individuals who make progress in this country possible. It is sometimes said that the cream will always rise to the top, no matter how much the milk is jostled around. We can only hope this is still true.

Robert J. Boes

Ely