As I reflect, on President Ford’s life of service to our country and the comments that have been made…
I think whatever happened to the idea of being a public servant?
In the case of our founding fathers, Abraham Lincoln, Ronald Reagan and Gerald Ford – they didn’t strive to make a great name for themselves, but to make this a better country.
When we look at the people and/or events that have shaped our lives, we tend to gravitate towards those who believe the best in us and others. And, we tend to love those people who are consistent and transparent.
“The nation remembered Gerald R. Ford (today) for what he didn’t have — pretensions, a scheming agenda, and a great golf game— as much as for the small-town authenticity he brought to the presidency.”
And, “the 38th president was celebrated for treating politics as a calling rather than blood sport.”[1]
“In his understated way he did his duty as a leader, not as a performer playing to the gallery,” Kissinger said. “Gerald Ford had the virtues of small-town America.”
Isn’t it a shame that these comments are made because they are the exception, rather than the rule?
Honesty, integrity and a desire to serve others are not normal behavior for our legislators.
With my own talent and gifts, I seek to walk in the footsteps of my heroes, Abraham Lincoln, Ronald Reagan and Gerald Ford.
We all recognize that these men were not faultless, yet all made meaningful contributions to the lives of others and the country they served.
I shall strive to do the same.
Please join me in my prayers for Betty Ford and the rest of President Ford’s family.
