Reflecting on True Leadership This Independence Day
As we approach Independence Day, I’ve been reflecting on something remarkable about our first president that seems almost impossible to imagine today: George Washington was a leader the entire nation could rally behind, and ironically, he was also the only president who genuinely didn’t want the job.
Walking Away from Power—Twice
Think about that for a moment. Here was a man who could have been king—the people literally offered him a crown—and he walked away from ultimate power not once, but twice. After leading us to victory in the Revolutionary War, he resigned his commission and went home to Mount Vernon. Then, when the nation called again, he reluctantly accepted the presidency, knowing full well he was setting precedents that would shape America forever.
Washington’s Definition of Leadership
Washington understood something we seem to have forgotten: true leadership isn’t about seeking power, it’s about serving something greater than yourself. He didn’t have a political party trying to get him elected. He didn’t have a constitution to guide him—that came later. He had something more powerful: a genuine love for this country and its people that transcended personal ambition.
Uniting a Divided Nation
What strikes me most is how Washington brought people together. In those early days, Americans had plenty to disagree about—we were figuring out how to be a nation on the fly. But Washington’s character was so unquestionable, his motives so clearly focused on the common good, that even his critics respected him.
Leadership Lessons for Today
In our business at CMI Gold and Silver, we’ve always believed that trust is everything. When people are making important financial decisions, they need to know you’re putting their interests first, not your own. Washington embodied that principle on a national scale. He could have enriched himself, could have grabbed power, could have played favorites. Instead, he chose to serve.
Focusing on What Unites Us
As we celebrate our independence this year, maybe we can remember what Washington showed us: that our differences don’t have to divide us when we focus on what we share. We all want our families to be safe and prosperous. We all want to leave something better for the next generation. We all want to live in a place where character matters more than politics.
Timeless Values for All Americans
Washington proved that real strength comes from putting others first, that true leadership means knowing when to step aside, and that the greatest power is often found in restraint. These aren’t Republican or Democratic values—they’re American values. They’re human values.
Channeling Washington’s Spirit This 4th of July
This 4th of July, as we gather with family and friends, maybe we can channel a little of Washington’s spirit. Listen more than we speak. Look for common ground instead of reasons to argue. Remember that the person across from us loves this country just as much as we do, even if they see things differently.
After all, if we could unite behind a reluctant president who was making it up as he went along, surely we can find ways to come together now.
Happy Independence Day, and here’s to remembering what makes us stronger together.
