Bubba's Back

Since I live in Little Rock, it is not uncommon to see a familiar bumper sticker on many cars throughout the city. It simply reads, "I miss Bill." It needs no other explanation since former President Bill Clinton still has many fans throughout the state and country. Many of us know him only from some distance, as President of our country for eight years. Some of us know him a bit better since he was also Governor of Arkansas for two terms as well. I remember meeting him in 1984 when he came to the small Christian school where I taught to be the graduation speaker. While standing in the foyer of the auditorium, I took his hand as I was introduced to him by my friend and colleague, Deborah, who had been responsible for booking this engagement. He looked directly into my eyes as if I were the other person in the world. I immediately sensed that charisma that I had heard so much about in the past. I can only begin to imagine the intense emotion the two journalists in North Korea also felt yesterday when a door opened, and they saw President Clinton. They immediately perceived he had come to be their savior.

Of course, those on the right, like John Bolton, have already been quite critical, saying the visit simply gives North Korea what it has been seeking for years, a gigantic propaganda tool. I disagree. We have tried using a heavy hand with North Korea for years, ignoring its flinging of missiles wherever and its threats of nuclear proliferation. What does it hurt for our former President to publicly sit with North Korea's dictator for a few pictures and have a dinner with a dying man? I am on the side of those who sincerely hope the event can lead to a better understanding between North Korea and America in the future.

In any event, "Bubba's Back." I hope to see new bumper stickers proclaiming that message. I hope that he will continue to use whatever influence he has to promote understanding and peace within the world.