Letter: Leaders should recognize imperfections, show understanding

The public discussions about torture by Congress members on TV reached a level devoid of common sense, which inspired this writing. Perhaps we need a president who knows the difference between a boss who “goes by the book,” and one who realizes that some unintended circumstances may arise. John Locke said the purpose of all law is to give justice. Sometimes there may be a violation of a law when the circumstances of the violation may be unforseen. If the violator is pronounced “guilty,” an injustice is put upon the individual.

The leader who recognizes such may be willing to stick his neck out for justice. The leader who enforces all rules is said to “go by the book.” I think every group of men I have been associated with prefer the leader who understands that imperfections may occur.

Caution — this can be a slippery slope. For example, “jury nullification” of a law is more significant than nullifying a rule. A boss who has bad judgment might be fired for not complying with a company rule.

The survival of our nation largely depends upon the quality of its leaders. When a citizen’s freedom is involved in something like “wire taps,” I would hope any errors a president makes are on the side of caution for survival.

Yes, there are some unintended consequences that occur.

Prior to 9/11, U.S. terror strike responses were primarily, “We will see that justice takes its course.” Hindsight and history will judge if Americans were fortunate that the president and the congressional leaders acted decisively after 9/11.