Obama, Osama, and Judgment

It was understandable that Americans reacted to the news of Osama bin Laden’s death with joy, for it provided the healing of a deep and old emotional wound.

 

I was struck by how quickly the mood of elation changed to one of relief and reflection, and by how much dignity has been shown by President Obama and leading politicians. American triumphalism as seen when Saddam Hussein was taken, for example, has been avoided for the most part, replaced by national pride and a sense of closure coupled with a realistic assessment of the state of world peace now.

The events of the past day have been an excellent lesson in judgment. Not only has the President shown good judgment (and leadership) in his handling of the operation and its aftermath, but it is clear also that many people misjudged him for ineptitude and inaction, quick to draw conclusions from appearances without giving him any benefit of doubt.

As one commentator to my blog yesterday implied, he is doing his best in what has been a sea of negativity washing towards him: hopefully, now the tide has turned, a more supportive and accepting attitude will assist him in his efforts, which I believe are genuine, to make the world a fairer, better place. This is something in which we can each play our part, for by so doing we too will make a difference.

 

Judgment is one of the principles in Claire Montanaro's 6 month New Consciousness Course