An Open Letter to President-Elect Obama

On January 20, 2009, you will accept one of the most powerful positions on Earth. You will be known as the leader of the free world. With this great position comes great responsibility, both to the people of your nation and to the people of the world.

Like many before you, I am certain you have great plans for your time in the office of president. However, you are entering the office in a completely unique time in our nation's history. This is why I must plead with you to consider very carefully your plans and policies before executing any orders or setting precedents.

First, find a worthy and wise group of advisors. It may be tempting to fill the seats with party favorites, "yes" men, and friends but it is very unwise. Find advisors from all walks of life and party affiliations. As the Bible says, "Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed." (Proverbs 15:22) Listening and receiving advice from many counselors will be the mark of a great president.

Divisive party politics will likely be the first issue you will face in your presidency. Even with a Democratic majority, you would be well served to set aside party affiliations and truly work in a bipartisan manner. You will be scrutinized more closely than any other president because of the Democratic majority and legislation will move much smoother if you attempt to find a middle ground with all sides. The best way to keep this precarious balance is to allow legislature to run as it should - without presidential pressure. Introduce legislation, but do not skip to executive orders. Wait until the legislation arrives at your desk before you decide to sign it or not. It is tempting but unwise to make big changes immediately.

Second, in your first year, you will most likely face major changes in foreign policy. The growing discontent over the war in Iraq and the unresolved conflicts in Afghanistan are disheartening. But do not fall to pressure to pull out immediately. Listen closely to those generals and military advisors who know the situation firsthand. Allow those who have been in the military to guide you. The best Commander-in-Chief understands he needs to rely on good men/women to give him the best options for strategy. Do not undo years of work with the idea of momentarily pleasing the masses.

Third, be cautious as you address the social issues in the United States. Before you make major changes in the issues of abortion-on-demand, infanticide and stem cell research, listen to the majority of Americans who do not believe radical change is merited. Listen to those who believe it is NOT all right to let live birth abortion babies die just because they had the misfortune of being born alive during the procedure. Keep in mind that social issues are best left to communities and out of the White House. Find solutions that are acceptable to most and do not push a radical agenda.

Mr. Obama, I believe the American people chose you for a reason. You have a beautiful picture of bipartisanship in your Caucasian mother and African father. I hope that you will honor us as a nation by keeping your campaign promise to work with both sides and not just rely on Democratic leadership.

Please keep the big picture in mind: Changes with careful, grounded thought will earn you a place in history as not only the first African-American president but one of the great leaders of our time. Drastic, radical changes will keep you from returning for another four years.

Sir, we honor your office of president-elect and support you as the 44th president of the United States of America. Be worthy of our respect.

Very sincerely,

Carol Wilkins, a concerned citizen