By Glenn Dromgoole

In my 82 years, I have lived under 15 U.S. Presidents, beginning with Franklin Roosevelt (he died when I was less than a year old).

Some I have agreed with more than others. Some of them I voted for, some I didn’t. But all of them, I believe, have tried to do what they felt was the right thing for the country at the time they served.

Yes, even the current one, whose character and approach to matters political and personal I have little regard for.

Still, he was elected by a majority of the voters to do what he set forth as his vision for the country, and he has certainly pursued that vision with considerable vigor, whether you agree with him or not – and I often don’t.

When I think back on the various men who have served as President in my lifetime, I find myself reflecting more positively on those whose character I respected, regardless of their views. Men who tried to appeal to our better spirit. Men who respected the past and served with dignity, integrity, civility.

A friend likes to quote Noah Webster:  “In selecting men for office, let principle be your guide. Regard not the particular sect (party) or denomination of the candidate – look to his character.”

As an admitted “old man,” my hope and prayer for the future is that we will focus on character, integrity, civility, principle as we select the leaders – men and women, regardless of political affiliation – to lead our nation, and the world, into a tomorrow filled with challenges to be addressed, opportunities to be identified, and differences to be respected.

Glenn Dromgoole’s new website is MoreCivilityPlease.com