My Thoughts on Brian Mulroney
A wise man once said that virtually every problem begins with a lie.
It is becoming increasingly clear that Brian Mulroney is not just a liar, but a compulsive liar and casuist. It is difficult for an individual in his situation to divine what is right when they cannot discern what is objectively true.
As a result, I don't know which he deserves more: our contempt or our compassion. I guess it depends on the day, and to what extent he is sincerely expressing contrition.
It is sad, as he was not without his major triumphs as Prime Minister: the fight against apartheid in South Africa, a genuine interest in a greener country, the GST (in place of a hidden tax), and the North American Free Trade Agreement (not a perfect agreement, but directionally correct).
On the other hand, he did not hesitate to distort the history of constitutional negotiations to further his political ambitions in Quebec. In so doing, he demonized PET and his constitutional legacy, and undermined the federalist cause in general for a decade to come.
Intellectual dishonesty, and doing ill so that good might come, is never justified. Moreover, it often comes back to curse whomever it corrupts.
As the old saying goes, if you sleep with the Devil you will wake up in Hell (and the Devil will expect you back the next night).
Karmic justice has prevailed. However, I don't think any of us feel any satisfaction, just world-weary relief with a tinge of sadness.
Let's hope that our next Prime Minister lives (and governs) by The Golden Rule.
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