Longacre: Comparing characters, destinies of Biden and Trump

“Character is destiny” is a phrase, attributed to the Greek philosopher Heraclitus, that implies that destiny, or fate, is not determined by outside forces but instead by one’s inner character. Let’s see how this is true for both Joe Biden and Donald Trump. First, as to Biden’s character, as revealed in bowing out of the race, historian Jon Meacham says: “To put something ahead of one’s most immediate desires — to give, rather than to try to take — is perhaps the most difficult thing for any human being to do. And Mr. Biden has done just that.” Summarizing, he adds that Biden put the country, the Constitution and the future of our democracy above himself.

Perhaps most important, Biden’s decision put the emphasis back on the destiny he and his fellow Democrats have in store for us: the reproductive liberty of women, equal rights for LGBTQ+ people, voting rights, protection of the climate, financial security of retirees, affordable health care for all, freedom from gun violence and a corruption-free rule of law.

Now, regarding Trump and his character/destiny combo, we already know the general outline of his character: his malignant narcissism; his sorry performance, especially during the pandemic; his criminal history; his incessant lying; his utter lack of empathy; and his seeming mental diminishment as of late. The implications of these traits for our destiny are many, but let’s keep things simple. Here is a quote from a recent speech at Turning Point Action’s Believers Summit in West Palm Beach, Florida: “Get out and vote. Just this time. You won’t have to do it anymore. … In four years, you don’t have to vote again. We’ll have it fixed so good, you’re not going to have to vote.”

Frederick Longacre

Hockessin

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