Bill Bowen III: Don't fall in love with politicians

Did you see the video footage this week of NBC News anchor Brian Williams bowing his head when saying goodbye to President Obama after an interview at the White House? I know people have said President Obama has brought the days of Camelot back to the White House, but I think people are talking about President Kennedy, not King Arthur.

I don't know about you, but I'd guess most people would not bow for anyone. I know I wouldn't. Don't get me wrong - I respect President Obama and many of our leaders, but to bow to any one of them is unthinkable. Americans fought 230 years ago so we would not have to bow before a king, and I'm sure not going to start now.

When Obama and Williams were saying good-bye, Williams acted as if it was the end of a date. I thought he'd try to give Obama a kiss and then ask him to call him. We shouldn't have a blind love for our president or any leader. It is great to respect, admire and even try to be more like our president, but blind love is wrong.

President Obama and our leaders make decisions that have a huge impact on our lives. Blind love will make you blind to their actions on you and others. No matter if you agree or disagree with our leaders, keep a close, skeptical eye on them. Hold them accountable for their actions. Make sure they hear your ideas and opinions. This should be double for the media.

Believe me, politicians are in office for one thing - to keep and increase their power. I love the quote from the movie "The Hunt for Red October" in which the politician said, "Listen, I'm a politician, which means I'm a cheat and a liar, and when I'm not kissing babies, I'm stealing their lollipops." And that's all I have to say about that.

Bill Bowen III

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