The Problem with Oprah’s Christmas Questions to the Obamas
Posted: Tuesday, December 15, 2009
by Jean Purcell
OpineBooks.com
Recently Oprah Winfrey sat with President and Mrs. Obama in their private living room at the White House. Oprah has been a strong supporter of the President since his historic run for that office. She visited with the First Couple early in the holiday season of Christmas, for an interview.
She asks them about many things, including, "Who is the best gift-giver?" At the end of an exchange between the Obamas, the President insists that he is a better gift-giver than his wife. That is an answer I find strangely ungracious to his beloved wife. Yet, we know he is a highly competitive person. But that is not the important problem.
An example of the President's excellent gifts, which Oprah pointed to, is a beautiful pearl necklace that Mrs. Obama wore during the interview. I find that strangely ungracious, as well. This is no time for attention to be drawn to the wealth and pricey gifts of the President. This is the time when Mrs. Obama, who stresses volunteerism, to emphasize giving time to those in need, especially the unemployed. Those unable to find work appreciate the free hairstyles, dry cleaning, and other helping gifts already being offered by many small businesses. Those gifts help them during critical job interviews. At times, they have made a big difference in applicant presentation. That is the kind of expensive gift the White House can applaud, for it gives beyond the moment and it helps others regain independence. Isn't this is a time to tone down boasts about personal wealth or expensive gift-giving?
In these days, Mr. President, when many Americans whom you were elected to serve are suffering greatly, it is a good thing to be mindful that wealth, fashion, and personal happiness in the White House should not be flaunted; giving by small businesses, volunteer groups, and yes, even large corporations, should be applauded routinely. Thank you for thinking of those who are hurting now due to unemployment over the past year. Many have no money with which to buy gifts this Christmas for their wives, husbands, parents, and children.
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Top-level comments on this article: (2 total)Some very good points, Jean. I'm also disappointed that Ophra would ask such questions. Maybe something like, "What gift have you given that's given YOU the most pleasure?" For me, that is the best part of Christmas; giving to those you love, and especially to those you have never met,and probably never will.Hi, Joyce, I think the closer we try to be to what's happening "on the ground," the more it helps our perspective. I admire Oprah's accomplishments, but like all media people, she benefits from viewers' comments, I think.Thanks for your encouragement!
I think you wrote a good piece on this topic. Very insightful. To me is shows again how out of tune with the average person some people are - we all need to remember to VOTE each and every chance we get.... MarijoMarijo, I hope everyone eligible to vote will study the facts, issues, different points of view, and vote carefully and seriously! Thanks for commenting.
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