Nobel Peace Prize

by Pat Antonopoulos

I did not hear President Obama's remarks when told he had been awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace. It has been reported that the President said he was humbled by the honor and that he did not feel he deserved to be in the company of past recipients.

Prior to being elected president, Barack Obama's public record does not indicate anything that would place him in the company of Gandhi, Elie Wiesel, Mother Theresa or Dr. Martin Luther King.

President Obama has been in office for 10 months and his popularity in other countries is impressive. Working with a Democratic Congress has meant that rancor on domestic issues has been somewhat diminished. He has visited other countries, held countless gatherings in the United States and spoken about transparent government. Health care has been a priority and discussion regarding the 'wars' is a lead issue.

I admit that my knowledge of specific criteria for the prize is sketchy, but I have read a great deal on the lives and work of Elie Wiesel, Mother Theresa, Dr. King and Gandhi. From the work of these people, the criteria seems obvious.

The decision by the Nobel Committee is troubling. I would like to read both the stated criteria and nominating material as it followed the requirements.

Perhaps President Obama might consider declining the prize based on his own belief that he does not deserve to be in the company of others so honored. His presidency certainly has time and circumstance in which to earn the Nobel Peace Prize that will be awarded in four years.

And finally, these comments are not intended to diminish my respect for President Obama or my respect for the office of President of the United States. Rather, I write them hoping for understanding and balance when transparency seems so vital.