Learning from Experience

Rep-elect Keith Ellison made the coolest symbolic gesture I think I've ever seen today.

Members of Congress have quite a few Americans that they can use as role models. Washington, Franklin, Lincoln, etc. Certainly, our own Mr. Jefferson would make a fine example for any member of government. One would think that fact would be especially true for the man who has the privilege of representing Jefferson's hometown in Congress. Sadly, that is not the case.

While it is unfortunate that the Congressman who serves Jefferson's 5th District has no appreciation of his work, the Congressman who will serve the 5th District of Minnesota does. While Mr. Goode brags that he does not have a copy of the Quran in his office, ironically, Mr. Jefferson had one in his. And that will be the holy book Rep. Elect Ellison will use in his ceremonial swearing-in tomorrow... Thomas Jefferson's personal copy of the Quran.

In one move, Ellison is reminding Virgil Goode of the rich history of religious tolerance that exists right in front of his nose, showing once again that he's not a Muslim extremist, but that he's an proud American who chooses to follow Islam. He has reminded Virgil and those who think like him that religious freedom and tolerance are some of this countries most basic ideals, made so by our founding fathers. And, he has sent a message to us, that despite certain media coverage portraying all residents of the 5th District in Goode's light, he knows that people of his ilk are a minority.

Thank you, Mr. Ellison, and I look forward to your providing an education to all those in Congress who need it.