Title of the Article: Vice President Gore, Albert Arnold Jr. Concedes President Election to George W. Bush
Text source:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/onpolitics/elections/goretext121300.htm
Brief summary
It is the transcript of Vice President Gore’s speech conceding the election to George W. Bush. Confronted by the turmoil caused by the result of election, Gore showed his concern for pursuing harmonious nation and being true to the glory of democracy, he conceded defeat and expressed his supports as well as congratulation for George W. Bush’s presidency.
Quotation
* “Partisan feeling must yield to patriotism.”- Stephen Douglas said to Abraham Lincoln
* “Not under man but under God and law.” That’s the ruling principle of American freedom, the source of our democratic liberties.
* …for its very closeness can serve to remind us that we are one people with a shared history and a shared destiny.
* Just as we fight hard when the stakes are high, we close ranks and come together when the contest is done.
* And while there will be time enough to debate our continuing differences, now is the time to recognize that that which unites us is greater than that which divides us. While we yet hold and do not yield our opposing beliefs, these is a higher duty than the one we owe to political party. This is America and we put country before party.
* …no matter how hard the loss, defeat might serve as well as victory to shape the soul and let the glory out.
Reflection
Greatness it comes in many forms, sometimes it comes in the form of sacrifice, that’s the loneliest form. It turns out that Al Gore is a man of principle, and his concede reveals his greatness. He may fail to become a national leader, but his decency is no less than the winner of this extraordinary campaign. He admitted defeats might seem betray to his party and supporters, but actually patriotic to a higher identity- his country. What he had done displays his consideration for the best interest of United States instead of personal political future. Will we have statesman with such leadership in Taiwan? I do hope so.
