Far too frequently (and more these days), people seek to profit

... and benefit themselves by obtaining public office, feeding upon that office to attain wealth, power, and personal aggrandizement. Sometimes, we see those whose service and devotion to duty and honor are the basis for any prestige such office obtains. We live in a time when far too many of us emblazon ourselves with symbols of attainment ... the attainments of others, not ourselves. Our institutions, in all sectors of our society, seem overrun with predators and vampires ... feeding upon the work and sacrifices of others. From the sexual perverts in our religious and educational institutions to the greed-obsessed in our business enterprises to the power-obsessed narcissists in our political institutions, the corruption of self-seekers is a plague on our society. But then ... occasionally ... often out of unspeakable tragedy ... we see one such as Gabby Gifford, demonstrating grace, courage, and selfless service to others. And it humbles us.