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Governor candidate a virtuous leader

According to classical philosophy there are four cardinal virtues: prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance.

It is not very often that you hear discussions of these virtues at political meetings.

This is not about going to church or doing good works, but rather the classical virtues of leadership that men like George Washington and Ronald Reagan embodied.

The first of these is prudence, or the ability to judge the right course of action at the appropriate time.

Next is fortitude, or the courage to confront fear and intimidation.

Finally, there is justice, or fairness, and temperance or the practice of self-control.

Washington often talked of the need for prudence and moderation (aka temperance).

As a young nation, America was not able to flex its muscles against Great Britain. When Washington signed the Jay Treaty in 1795 with Great Britain, angry mobs across America took to the streets and Congress accused Washington of selling out to the British. But he stood firm.

Washington had to choose a courageous act, not a reckless or cowardly one.

It was Ronald Reagan who steadfastly defended the rights of every American from the moment of conception to the end of their natural life.

Whether it was taxation, criminal code or race relations, President Reagan always demanded fairness and justice.

Prudence, courage, fairness and moderation. These are the virtues we should expect from our leaders and what I see in Gary Rabine. Gary has demonstrated not only the common sense and sound judgment that constitute prudence, but also the courage to act on that judgment.

Gary Rabine describes these virtues as two simple skills that separate him from the rest, having common sense and can't be bought.

I agree. It's also, just another way of describing a "virtuous leader."

Dennis Wagner

Hoffman Estates

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