Wado & Donadagohvi

Photo courtesy: Tulsa World  (2011)

The fine folks at the Tulsa World did a nice thing today, something we should do here as well--- they looked back on the Chad Smith era at Cherokee Nation.   

We’re steaming into Baker’s term at full speed, but we think it probably is right and fair to do what the World did, which is to look back at the full 12 years and give credit where credit is due.

Photo Courtesy: Tulsa World (1999)

There is a certain respect that should be accorded former Chiefs.  There is a reason it is called public service, and its best illustrated in the comparison of the two photos of Smith at his inauguration and Smith today.  Smith certainly gave of himself.  

There is a time and a place for political disagreement, even anger if that’s your choice.  But as part of Baker’s idea of reconciliation, let’s try something here.  We challenge every reader to say something respectful and nice to or about our former Chief.  It’s a chance for Baker supporters to show they are good winners.  For Smith supporters, a chance to honor the candidate you rallied around.  We’ll have almost four more years (at least) to tout the accomplishments of Baker, so let’s let Smith have his day.   

If you want to say something rude or mean about our former Chief, feel free to scroll down to another blog post (or another page entirely) and do it there.  On this post, follow Mama's advice: if you can’t say anything nice don’t say anything at all.