Some very special people you never meet are able to bring a smile and a sparkle to you. You may only know them from the news, their books, their appearances on television, and other venues, yet they really do become part of your daily life and routine. Tim Russert was such a special man. Over the years of his career, many of us watched and enjoyed Tim Russert.
Today Tim Russert, NBC News Washington Bureau Chief, died suddently of a heart attack. Most people who know of Tim's work and life, never met him in person. Yet, almost every night he met with us through the news of the day, the week, or the year. Political news, commentary, and digging at views, opinions, and consequences of great import or potential were Tim Russert's professional charge, over which he showed intense care.
To his wife, his son, his dad, his friends and colleagues at NBC, and all others who knew him and loved him, our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out for you.
Touching hearts and minds is the work of public life, for good or for ill. In Tim Russert's case, it was for good. Not only through political commentary and reporting but also through his unapologetic love for his dad and his son, in books and on the air, Tim's influence shone bright and clear. In times of fading glories and confusion, efforts to bring clarity are rare.
Millions welcomed Tim Russert into their homes and offices and other
places almost every day and every night via TV. Seeing him and
listening to him on the Nightly News, on his centerpiece Meet the
Press, and at other times, we may not have always agreed with his
"take" on something. We always welcomed, respected, admired, and
believed in his commitment and desire to get it right.
This is enough to say for now. Often when feelings overflow words grow scarce and tight and inadequate.
Tim Russert, Farewell. You are already sorely missed.
Jean Purcell is a book publisher and writer. Her first book was Not All Roads Lead Home under her pen name, Jane Bullard. Her web site is http://www.opinebooks.com and her Writing and Publishing Nonfiction Books blog is at http://janebullard.blogspot.com/ Sign up for the free Opinari Quarterly for Christian Writers, Publishing Professionals, Book Lovers, and Reviewers on her web site.
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» left by Terry Mitchell(5,899) Terry Mitchell (1 year 134 days ago.)
As another political junkie myself, I could really identify with Tim's passion for politics. I made a habit of watching him on Meet the Press on my bedroom TV each Sunday morning while getting dressed for church. Without him, there will be a big hole in the presidential campaign coverage between now and November. He will be sorely missed and difficult to replace.
» left by Jean Purcell(1,911) Jean Purcell (1 year 134 days ago.)
Terry, I share your feelings of loss. Your words are a comfort to me. The loss you speak of is just hitting many of us. I agree with your assessment. I hope NBC will take whatever time and thought they need to move forward in a way that will honor Tim and what he built during his news leadership from Washington. We can hardly imagine that Meet the Press chair without him. Respond to this comment
» left by Anonymous (1 year 134 days ago.)
I was very moved by Jane's article. I to am a political junkie and this hits very hard. I will miss him during this election and his board. Thank you Jane.
» left by Avis Ward(11,864) Avis Ward (1 year 133 days ago.)
Jane, many more join you. I am not a political junkie but Russert's ability to ask the hard questions and his consummate professionalism spoke for it self. He lured you "into politics." A lovely tribute from you. Thank you.
» left by Jean Horst(1,191) Jean Horst (1 year 131 days ago.)
Jane, I think Mr. Russert's untimely passing could very well impact the outcome of the election. He had such a way of asking the tough questions and getting answers that we needed to hear. I feel that there are things I'll need to know when making the decision about who to vote for that I won't know now. I'll very much miss the clarity he brought to issues.
» left by Jane (1 year 131 days ago.)
Jean, I hope that this observation will be true in this instance: when influential people leave the scene it often happens that those closest to them,who relied upon them, remember with unusual clarity the questions they heard that person ask them and others in a process. This can be a kind of legacy for tham to emulate and use. I hope this may happen with his team and beyond-although we know he was truly irreplaceable. Thank you for your comments. Jane Respond to this comment
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