I heard the news about Ronald Reagan’s passing this afternoon while sitting around with friends at a campaign meet and greet. The room went quiet for a moment or two. Some were visibly upset at the news, while others took it stoically due to the long illness our former President has suffered from these many years.

But after the silence, came the expected stories and remembrances of this great American leader. First up was the famous “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!” quote from what was then West Germany. Next came the quote from one of his first debates in the year he eventually won the Presidency, when he declared “I paid for this microphone”, when people tried to dictate who would be included in the debate. Not to be left out was his question to doctors ready to treat him for his gunshot wounds, when he hoped that they were all good Republicans.

We talked about how he made politics something very different from what it was then, and what it has turned out to be today. Ronald Reagan could disagree with you in principle, but would never take it personally. He would never stoop to the personal attacks that punctuate our current political environment. He wouldn’t allow it. He was a gentleman of the old school; of life and of politics. Even when he disagreed on policy with then Speaker of the House, Tip O’Neill from Massachusetts, they always remained friendly with each other. President Bush has tried this with current Democrat leaders, but they don’t seem to have the leadership skills to return the favor. If there is one lesson to be learned from the presidency of Ronald Reagan, maybe that should be the most important one.

Historians will argue for years about his effect on this nation. A case can certainly be made to place him at the top of the list of greatest Presidents in the 20th century, if not of all time. There was certainly no better President for the perilous times during the Cold War. He won that war without firing a single shot.

A great man has passed away today. He goes to a place where his memories are once again sharp and clear, his voice is once again strong and certain, and where his great accomplishments will certainly be rewarded. This nation was a better place for his having lead us, and a poorer place during his years of Alzheimer-induced silence. Our nation now must mourn the passing of a President, a man, and a way of life that will never be seen again. May God be with you, President Reagan.

Dave Richard