THE BRIDGE YOU BURN NOW MAY
BE THE ONE YOU LATER HAVE TO CROSS.
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If it be possible, as much as lieth in you,
live peaceably with all men.
Romans l2:18
When Abraham Lincoln was campaigning for the presidency,
one of his archenemies was Edwin McMasters Stanton. Stanton
hated Lincoln, and used every ounce of his energy to degrade
Lincoln in the eyes of the public, often using the bitterest
diatribes in an attempt to embarrass him.
In the process of choosing his cabinet after his election,
Lincoln selected various members and then faced a decision
about the important post of Secretary of War. He chose Stanton!
The president's inner circle erupted in an uproar when he heard
his choice. Numerous advisors came to Lincoln saying, "Mr.
President, you are making a mistake. Are you familiar with all
the ugly things he has said about you? He is your enemy. He will
sabotage your programs."
Lincoln replied, "Yes, I know Mr. Stanton. But...I find he is
the best man for the job."
As Secretary of War Stanton gave invaluable service to his nation
and his president. After Lincoln was assassinated, many laudable
statements were made about Abraham Lincoln, but the words of Stanton
remain among the greatest. Standing near Lincoln's coffin, Stanton
called Lincoln one of the greatest men who ever lived and said,
"He now belongs to the ages."
Lincoln Memorial