PINNACLE LIFE IS NOT FOR JOKERS

PINNACLE LIFE IS NOT FOR JOKERS  

By Andy Weddington

Friday, 23 May 2025

The foremost art of kings is the power to endure hatred.  - Seneca the Younger

During a Senate committee hearing this week Secretary of State Marco Rubio stared down criticism as to bringing thousands of South Africans to the United States.

Their safety (life or death) basis for decision. 

Right call. 

Of course, the Secretary of State is carrying out the President's direction.  

Senators with D marking party hostile.

Secretary Rubio stands on the pinnacle. 

As does our Vice President, Secretary of Defense, Secretary of Health and Human Services, et al., stand on the pinnacle.

Not one is surrendering the high ground.  

Their critics, typically spewing shallow and stupid positions contrary to all things American, look silly.  

For example, Senator Chris Van Hollen (D, MD), went so far as to express regret voting to confirm (fellow Senator) Rubio as Secretary of State. 

Secretary Rubio was masterful noting said regret can only mean he's doing a good job. 

Indeed. Better than good.   

I did not watch all of the hearing. 

No need. 

But watched enough that it's occupied thoughts the past couple days during long walks. 

In short, President Trump leads a Cabinet of serious and capable and tough men and women.

In a sense, all kings. 

Yet not one is confused about (their) gender (so some queens).

Nor is there confusion about President Trump's expectations and their challenges, duties, and objectives. 

Anyway, the point ...

The President nor any principal need defend as much as they do. 

No.

They're on top. They're responsible. They're accountable. 

Much like the commander of a military unit (as written in the Uniform Code of Military Justice): The commanding officer is responsible of all the unit does and fails to do.

It's lonely work.    

Therefore, what ought be on loop echoed by each ...

"Well, when you hold this office, do it your way." 

Closing note ...

While mentally putting final touches on this commentary my wife returned from exercising. 

Entering our home she paused and caught scent. With big smile and wink said ...

"I'm keeping you!"

"Why?"

"Because you're great ... 

in the kitchen."

I was baking homemade croutons.

"Geez, thanks, babe. Just what every man - married for decades - wants to hear ... being great in the kitchen." 

With that, this spicy commentary is put to bed.