Obama Calls for Civility at National Prayer Breakfast

But does he mean it?

President Obama urged Democrats and Republicans to not question one another’s motives and to make an effort to move beyond the cynicism and skepticism that has weighed down the politics of Washington, saying: “Civility is not a sign of weakness.”

In an appearance today at the National Prayer Breakfast, Mr. Obama conceded that policy differences would often separate the political parties. But he challenged lawmakers and religious leaders to step beyond their comfort zones and unify on at least some daily challenges, not only when a calamity like the Haiti earthquake strikes.

“Too often that spirit is missing without the spectacular tragedy,” Mr. Obama said. “We become numb to the day-to-day crises. We become absorbed with our abstract arguments, our ideological disputes, our contests for power. And in this tower of babble, we lose the sound of God’s voice.”

You first, Mr. President. Lead by example.