There are those, of course, who will dismiss all this high-minded scrutiny and lamentation as much ado about nothing -- at most, making a mountain out of a molehill.
Consider, though, sir, if you would, the moral authority you might have gained in behalf of every man, woman, and child on this troubled and besieged planet had you answered the Nobel Committee's call with a rebuff most gentle: "Good people, I very much appreciate your gesture (which, in truth, has more to do with Mr. Bush than it does with me), but this prize is much too sacred a symbol to be awarded to someone who has only just begun to do the kind of work it represents."
Consider further, sir, if you would, what might happen if you were to return that sacred symbol to the Nobel Committee, with a mild remonstration to the effect that this particular honor should never be used as a political instrument.
Consider further, sir, if you would, what might happen if you were to revisit every one of those tough questions you so artfully ducked and dodged five years ago on NPR.
Consider further, sir, if you would, what might happen if you were to put everything on the line, every single day, with no regard to self, for the rest of your public life.
[Tom Fitzgerald is the author of Poor Richard's Lament: A most timely tale.
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