Dear George W. Bush,
You have at times expressed your admiration for America's first commander-in-chief, so I'm sure you already know that historians are quick to remind us that Washington had the chance to be president for a third time because he was a living legend. But of course he declined a third time because he knew that it's unwise for a nation to put its fate in any one man. Humble men know that "Grace is knowing when to leave," as one historian said of Washington's example.
It's time for you to leave, Mr. Bush. A nation's success is directly proportional to its leaders' credibility. And, as you know, your administration is all out of credibility. So help yourself and cut your losses. Fire Cheney, replace him with someone credible and then resign.
If you really want history to judge you on a par with the president that set the bar, prove to America that you understand that a leader with no credibility is not doing his people any favors by insisting he finish his term merely because it's on the schedule.
The father of Conservatism, William Buckley, also said that you should resign, so hopefully you'll read "The Switch" and see why Wes Clark is the most capable and credible leader who could possibly replace you. If you don't believe me, ask the 55 ambassadors ambassadors who endorsed him and these guys.
Anybody can ride out the clock, Mr. Bush, but a real leader would admit when he's bitten off more than he can chew and is in over his head.
UPDATE: added poll