The Absent Uncle: Presidents' Day

This will get published in a couple of weeks, but as I write it today it is Presidents’ Day 2023. It is to celebrate the birthdays of George Washington (Feb. 22) and Abraham Lincoln (Feb. 12).  

Washington especially should be recognized for his role in establishing our country. Not only for his military leadership during the American Revolution, but that after becoming President he declined to extend his Presidency longer than what the laws under which he was elected specified. He truly was “The Father of our Country”. 

Those two birthdays used to be celebrated separately, but in the American tradition of efficiency the dates have become combined to celebrate these two great Presidents, plus to include all of our presidents. This was finalized in 1968. Some states had recognized the holiday, others not, but the third Monday of February was designated a “National Holiday” in 1968.

I believe it is a holiday well worth celebrating. Each of these Presidents participated in the transference of power flawlessly per the constitution, our laws, and the recognition of what the popular vote, the electoral college, and the results meant. They each should be celebrated on the fact they understood what the office of the President stood for, and the fact they each adhered to the law. How many other countries can claim over 200 years of following the prescribed law, in transference of the ultimate power? 

Until 2020.