Appearance: Nothing wrong with simply being yourself

Say one thing about Dr. Ben Carson, one of the myriad of Republicans offering to be president of the United States.

That man is comfortable in his own skin.

Now, contrast that to the candidates attempting "to look" everything from presidential to not too crazy.

After last night's debate, there was lots of talk about candidates demonstrating leadership, energy and in some cases, restraint.

Not so for Carson. He was the same old guy.

And perhaps he has hit on something.

One of the problems with politicians is that they perform. So, when you hear them speak, you are never really sure if you are hearing what they want you to hear or what they really think.

Most Americans are tired of watching performances. They are looking for real, for sincere, for honest and for once, independent.

They are having a difficult time right now trusting anyone who comes from the polished and whitewashed world of Washington politics.

There are many people who say that a presidential candidate has to be a chameleon, able to change positions, and presentation, to suit his or her audience.

Maybe that is what we are really tired of -- and why so many non-politicians are at the top of the leader board.

Real is refreshing. And Ben Carson seems to know that.

Maybe the others will catch on soon.

Published in Editorials on September 17, 2015 11:04 AM