Day 43, February 12

Today is Abraham Lincoln's birthday.  I've written about Lincoln before, about his struggles with depression, his desire to do the right thing even in the face of great criticism.

One of Lincoln's greatest traits, I believe, was his humility and his ability to forgive.  In the darkest hours of the Civil War, where he received criticism from friends and enemies alike, Lincoln found the time to listen to a mother's plea for her son who was sentenced to die by firing squad for falling asleep on duty.

Lincoln's heart was touched, his compassion stirred.  He stayed the execution order.

Joy for today:  remembering a great man.