The First Emperor of the United States

Joshua Norton made his living as an entrepreneur.  He considered himself a savvy businessman and so when an opportunity presented itself for him to corner the market on rice, Norton made his big move.  He took all of the money he had and bought up the entire supply counting on the rising prices to produce a windfall for him.  But shortly after signing the contracts – several shiploads of rice arrived in the San Francisco Bay unexpectedly, causing the price of rice to plummet – and forcing Norton into bankruptcy.

He left San Francisco for a short time, but when He returned Norton was did something that had never been done in the history of the US.  He declared himself the “Emperor of the United States.”  In the letter that he sent to the newspapers, Norton wrote, “At the request and desire of a large majority of the citizens of these United States, I, Joshua Norton … declare and proclaim myself Emperor of these United States.”

The newspapers originally printed this letter for humorous effect – and Norton would later add to his title “Protector of Mexico”.   And so began his unprecedented and whimsical 21-year “reign” over America.  While holding the fictitious office – Norton issued numerous decrees on matters of the state.  He also saw no further need for legislature, and so formally dismissed the United States Congress.”

While Norton’s antics may have been humorous to the people of San Francisco – something about his story strikes me.  The reality is that Joshua Norton, the First Emperor of the United States – was a fake.  There was nothing about his status or his “power” that was real.  It was a sham, a fabrication, and a lie.

The sad thing I think about “Emperor Norton’s” story is that the people around him let him live as a fake.  He was likely unbalanced and probably mentally ill – to believe wholly in the fake reality that he created.  But no one stopped him, no one cared enough for him to help him see the reality – and live the life that God made him for.

Last week we started a new series with our High School students called – “Friends Don’t Let Friends”.  In our first session we talked about how – Real Friends Don’t Let Friends Be Fake.  The reality is that each of us is a little like “Emperor Norton” – we create a false reality and try to convince people that we are something we are not.

I hope that we are all learning that it is best that we live the life God created us for.  And as brothers and sisters in Christ – as friends – we shouldn’t let each other live fake lives.  God calls us to come just as we are – to drop the pose – to take off the mask – and start being real and authentic.  Because Friends Don’t Let Friends – Be Fake.   If you are a high school student - I hope you will join us on Sunday night's from 6-8pm!  When you come just remember - you don't have to be fake.  You can just be you!