As I read "A Brilliant Solution," I was struck by two things. First, I knew there were many opinions and disagreements among the delegates of the Constitutional Convention however, I had no idea just how extreme those ideas and opposing viewpoints were. And second, I was amazed and impressed at the tenacity and determination of the Founding Fathers to 'see the job through' given the discord and conditions under which they worked. This text has given me a whole new appreciation and perspective on the Constitution, on the people who worked so diligently to draft the document, and the fact that it has provided this nation with a framework of government that continues to withstand tests and trials.
There was much in the book that was new information for me. I did not realize there were so many different plans presented to the delegates (i.e. the Virginia Plan, New Jersey Plan, Connecticut Compromise) each with their own strengths and weaknesses. With each new proposal came a new round of discussions, disagreements, tantrums and compromises. In the end, with egos and personal agendas set aside, the delegates combined the best of each plan to create the checks and balance framework we know today. To say their achievement is nothing short of 'brilliant' is a gross understatement. While it may not be the most perfect form of government, it certainly strives to be 'the best for the many.'
It is also interesting that while some things change, some things remain the same. As I was discussing the book with my son, I commented on the intense arguments and extreme viewpoints of the delegates. His response, "You know Mom, people think the government is failing because of all the partisan fighting, but nothing has really changed. Look what those early delegates went through and fought about then look at what goes on today . . . it's the same today as back then." I have to agree with Dirk's response and in my opinion that is the beauty of our Constitution. Forgive my analogy but our Constitution reminds me of a building designed to withstand earthquakes. The core and framework must be strong enough to support the integrity of the structure and yet, it must also be flexible with just enough 'give' that it does not collapse in adversity. I think as citizens, we are pretty fortunate to live with such a foundation!
Yes, our Constitution is amazing! It is awesome to think that our framework for our government is a document that has survived for over 2 centuries and is still relevant due to the visionary minds of our founding fathers. I think that our current politicians could learn a few things about leading our nation from the authors of our Constitution. Even though they has strong disagreements, they were able to make compromises because they were able to think of what was in the best interest our our nation.
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