Besides my dearest family members, which include my late brother, who also a member of the US military in Vietnam, I have known many wonderful people throughout my career. One day, I may even write the book which my loved ones suggest I should, but for now, this blog is sufficient. Nice stories happen to people who tell them. Here's another one, with some food for thought.
I had the pleasure of meeting this great American while I served as New York Bureau Chief for The Associated Press. I flew to an annual media event in Washington, DC. and while I was speaking with my friend and colleague Stacey Tisdale, I took her photo with Senator John McCain and as you can see, his sense of humor made this special Kodak moment the place to be.
On a serious note, the death of US Senator John McCain has possibly done for this great country what no other elected leader has accomplished in a long time. This American patriot has begun a national discourse and bring it front and center. The senior US Senator has shown all of us that as he evolved into a global statesman he became the pivotal figure leading our great nation towards a brand new way for #USA,
His public memorial services in Arizona and then in Washington, DC were admirably produced in a truly bipartisan, extremely eloquent, and emotional manner. McCain's death has shown America that we as a country have moved too far in the wrong direction and it is time for Independent voters, Republicans, and Democrats, to repair an unfair health care system, to fix our broken immigration laws, and other serious quality of life issues in a truly bipartisan way, with professionalism and void of personal attacks.
His passing reminds all of us not follow the biblical Book of Genesis, where brothers Cain and Abel, the first two sons of Adam and Eve who were born after the Fall of Man ended in violence. Do not allow anyone to manipulate facts, or pay attention to those consumed by jealousy, who spread fear or hatred, and never ever let any man, or woman abuse power. Let us always follow the laws of this great nation because order brings about compromise.
Reportedly, all the tributes for this All-American hero in addition to his daughter's were delivered by a grandson of immigrants, first in his family to go to college; am individual who fled Nazi Germany as a youngster; a President's son; and another President, who happens to be African-American, and was raised by a single mother.
However, whether this will make sense to leaders chafing at pugnacious styles, remains to be seen. Finally, as Senator McCain would say, let's move on, America.
