In his public postings and comments President Trump sometimes exhibits a lack of magnanimity or high mindedness. He tends to kick a political opponent when he down — or even dead. This embarasses many of his followers, especially those who call themselves Christians.

On December 15, Trump wrote on Truth Social:

“A very sad thing happened last night in Hollywood. Rob Reiner, a tortured and struggling, but once very talented movie director and comedy star, has passed away, together with his wife, Michele, reportedly due to the anger he caused others through his massive, unyielding, and incurable affliction with a mind crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME, sometimes referred to as TDS. He was known to have driven people CRAZY by his raging obsession of President Donald J. Trump, with his obvious paranoia reaching new heights as the Trump Administration surpassed all goals and expectations of greatness, and with the Golden Age of America upon us, perhaps like never before. May Rob and Michele rest in peace!”

Wow!  Trump attributes Reiner’s murder to his hatred of Trump. That clearly contradicts the facts as we know them.   

There is no doubt that Rob Reiner and said many hateful things about Trump, and these insults were returned in kind. However, their mutual dislike was based largely on philosophical and political differences. I believe that had Reiner and Trump interacted with one another in a purely social setting, they may have gotten along splendidly.

How do we evaluate this man, Trump?  He certainly appears obnoxious at times. He is a braggart and a serial exaggerator. His comments about Reiner show that he can be petty. These defects of character tend to drive people away – even many who would otherwise be inclined to support him.

Yet, many people have attested to his personal kindness, compassion and generosity. The excellence of his family, and his children’s love and support for him provide another testimony to his worth. In my mind, these virtues outweigh his obvious faults.  

I believe Trump strives to achieve results which he thinks best for our country; and, insofar as I understand his goals, they align with my own. He has a grand vision for America, and he works tirelessly to achieve it.  He also strives for peace around the world.  He has built a marvelous team of public servants to assist him in this great effort.  I pray for his success.