This is the story that keeps on ticking. It hasn't helped that Reverend Jeremiah Wright has gone on a media tour these past several days. Wright clearly loves being the center of attention. I also think it is very clear that he is irritated with Barack Obama. He is irritated and he is jealous.
It is actually funny and pathetic. And it detracts from the righteous core message that Wright has historically conveyed from his pulpit. I happen to believe that Wright overwhelming speaks the truth from his pulpit. He gives voice to a perception that is held by many. It needs to be listened to. Obama said as much in his Constitution Hall speech on race.
It appears clear to me, however, that Wright is jealous that the young Barack Obama, whom he guided and counseled when he was a young man, has now eclipsed his elder, former spiritual mentor. This is a classic phenomenon. The young protege who learns the ropes from the older mentor, must as he matures, find his own way in the world and break from his mentor. That transition is a difficult and troublesome one. It is a time when jealousy and irritation over the protege's success can cause the mentor to be hurtful. The mentor always sees greatness in the protege, which is one reason the relationship begins in the first instance. The mentor knows that the protege will soar. But, is only human to see base emotions surface when the protege soars beyond the mentor's reach.
How Obama deals with this latest Wright flare up will say much about the man. I have a notion about how it should be handled, but I will hold back on that until we see the response of the man I believe should be our next President.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
1 comment:
His response was typical Obama. Poised and thoughtful. It demonstrated his ability to give an emotional response without becoming a victim of his own emotions.
Post a Comment