being courageous
This point is also worth repeating. Courage. Our columnists have more courage than those in the Senate. Too few see past the petty issues or privileges of the moment to see the clear issues of the future. Bush has foresight; often those with strong religious values have foresight as well. It is because we trust in something larger than ourselves. We can only hope that Meiers also has both courage and foresight.
I don't know, however, that I could honestly say that our columnists have more courage than those in the Senate. It's kinda like saying boxers have more courage than wrestlers: Two different fields. One field observes and makes commentary upon those in the arena. Those in the arena are often sucking up to those in the commentary fields, in order to get elected or support on a pet issue; and because that columnist can wield a pen to reach millions of (potential) voters. This puts the pundit in the "power" category over a person in the political arena, often.
In this, of yours:
It is because we trust in something larger than ourselves.
I am in perfect accord with you!