George Washington slept here -- really!
Of course he did; it was his home -- Mount Vernon in Virginia.
Mount Vernon is more than the regal plantation manor sitting on a bluff overlooking the Potomac River. It also is acres of fields that Washington farmed, the barns and out-buildings -- and from modern times -- museum and learning center.
But Mount Vernon is more than a place -- it is a symbol. A symbol of a time when people were willing to sacrifice all for a county yet-to-be, of men and women setting aside personal welfare and wealth for the well-being of the whole.
Washington's home would be a beautiful place to see even if it's past owner had not been so famous and important, but the history of the man who owned it is just as inspiring. Touring the property and reviewing events of his life is a humbling experience. Here was a man who thought of himself primarily as a landed farmer, not a statesman. He was a humble man and refused to be made king of the victorious American colonies. He preferred his title of General rather than President, and yet, chose to not retain power over the army once its goal had been achieved.
I visited Mount Vernon on President's Day weekend. As I stood in front of his burial vault in front of his opened tomb, I wondered how many present-day politicians and leaders will be remembered for their examples of humility and self-sacrifice.
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