Hype

One of the things that has recently bothered me is the whole Obama-Lincoln comparisons that have cropped up. They came up from time to time in the primaries and campaigns, and recently with the whole "Team of Rivals" cabinet. I don't know if this is coming from his people or the media (and the cynic in me wants to exclaim "what's the difference"), but its getting a little irritating because Obama isn't Lincoln and shouldn't try to be Lincoln. He has many gifts, is a very capable politician, and may become one of our greatest presidents, but he should try to do so on his own merits, not by becoming someone else.

This sort of thing isn't specific to Obama or even politics. The Republicans have been looking for the next Ronald Reagan since 1988. Every NBA draft talking heads on TV are looking for the next Michael Jordan.

The thing is, it is important to have good role models and people we want to emulate, whether in our chosed profession, or just in life. But, before we anoint someone as the heir to a previous great person, let them be themselves and make their own mark.