Don’t give Trump so much credit, America

In less than 24 hours since Donald Trump has been named the President-elect of the greatest nation on this earth, it’s become apparent he’s being given far more credit than he’s due.  There’s anguished cries of, ‘How will my children grow up knowing not to discriminate?’ or, ‘How can I look my daughter in the eye and tell her she has purpose?’  Really?  Really, America?  You have given Donald Trump, a mere mortal man, far more credit than he deserves, especially considering the man hasn’t even taken office yet.  Trump does not have the power to mold our families, that is our flat-out our responsibility.

Your children will learn to love or hate, be respectful or disrespectful, wise or foolish, not by the character of the family in the White House, but by the family in their house.  May I submit to you that your sons and daughters will be far, far more influenced by their teachers, coaches, 4-H, FFA, Scouts or church group leaders than they will a man on TV.  I don’t feel my character was molded by the Bush, Clinton, or Obama families, but I did learn perseverance from my Dad, work ethic from my Mom, and to do my best (and then redo it) from my sister.  My college bible study leaders modeled to me how to seek God and my husband leads me in prayer.

Should those in the public spotlight conduct themselves in a honorable fashion with utmost integrity?  Absolutely.  However, it is not the responsibility of Miss America, the NFL, or the President, to set the example of moral conduct.  It is not the government’s responsibility to ensure American children have a good example.  It is our responsibility, as American citizens, to ensure that we lead our youth in showing what is right and good and honorable and true.  One good, God-fearing, America respecting football coach can do far more to shape the hearts and minds of teenage boys than Colin Kapernick.  If we want to make a difference, let’s stop worrying about Trump’s moral example and take an active role in our classrooms, churches, youth groups, sports team, 4-H and FFA.

Secondly, it is only a lie that one man in Washington can determine another person’s value or worth.  If you’re living and breathing, you have a purpose.  Case closed.  God fearfully and wonderfully made each one of us, and then continues to work in us for His good pleasure!  If I ever, ever seek another man or woman’s approval or affirmation to find purpose in my life, I will be sorely disappointed.  It does not matter if that individual is a supervisor, friend, husband, or the President himself, no one can provide me with purpose outside of the Lord.

Friends and fellow Americans, “Your success as a family… our success as a nation… depends not on what happens inside the White House, but on what happens inside your house.”  I pray these wise words of Barbara Bush should resonate with us, our nation has always and will always depend on the moral fiber of our families, nothing more, nothing less.  God bless, America, and America, bless God!