There were a lot of misty eyes in Philadelphia last week. But isn't there something disturbing about politicians having the ability to bring an audience to tears in a simple, routine speech? Is something missing in a nation where political idealism can elicit such a strong emotional response?
After all, none of the speeches were the Gettysburg Address. In fact, they were more akin to Edward Everett's two-hour ramble at Gettysburg than Abraham Lincoln's legendary two-minute address that followed. Not a single line from any speech delivered last week will be remembered this November. In fact, I can't recall a single phrase of particular importance a mere week later. But, for some reason, the tears flowed freely. The emotions outpoured. Why?
