This week we lost a President, a son, a father, a veteran… George H. W. Bush’s lived a full and exemplary life, yet his path centered on just a few words: Service, purpose, love, integrity, humility…
Regardless of political stances, opinions, and policies, what matters is the man recognized that our lives arc when we realize there is something higher, bigger, and more worthy of our dedicated effort than pleasing ourselves. In a son’s voice, George W., beautifully captured in his eulogy the essence of his father’s grace. Nothing speaks to knowing and understanding deeper than the eloquent and heartfelt words of this son’s painting of a beautiful life.
These rituals serve to give us pause. For a moment, time stands still so we may look back to look ahead. And perhaps we have been looking in places of low value of late. Perhaps the star’s life of sport and assorted screens so available and promoted 24/7 is not the point of light that should capture our gaze and admiration. It is far from old-fashioned to be a person of character, commitment, and grace. Far from “old school” to be a loving father, caring servant, and devoted mate. Sometimes soft is hard and hard is soft. Knowing the difference is the essence of leadership regardless of the role.
The last words George H. W. Bush uttered in this life were “I love you, too.” And it reached the ear and the heart of one of his children. We should all be so blessed. Those words, their power and glory remained a part of his son’s heart, evident in a heave, a bow, a quiet sob on the altar of the Lord his father served. A son’s voice and a son on his way Home. Rest in peace.
