President Ronald Reagan's name is almost mythical in some people's minds. His name evokes unjust hatred in others. Both of these responses result from his strength of character. He was not a willow to be bent in the winds of politics, but rather an oak. Reagan's faith in God enabled him to understand that truth doesn't change. A political leader must act on the principles of truth in the face of unjust opposition. What principles are those? That freedom is not from government. It is the gift of God. That American liberty has been bought with the blood of patriots. That high taxes and big government are the enemy of liberty. That we may have peace only through strength. That life is precious at every stage. That thrift, hard work, patriotism, and family values make a nation strong. God bless America The Ballad of Ronald Reagan is similar to G.K. Chesterton's "The Ballad of the White Horse," which was a tribute to King Alfred of England. It is a long narrative poem.