The breaking news on CNN.com cable channel of
the sudden loss of Tim Russert brought an unusual
swelling in my eyes followed by uncontrollable tears
running down my face for a few seconds.
Tim Russert was bigger than life every time he is seen on our cable telly -
soft spoken, firm, considerate and reassuring always making his guests comfortable.
He is described as the last man to go home on election night and the first to be on
the air at NBC the next morning. As the person charged with the mandate to fulfill
the mission of the 'Meet the Press' program, each and every Sunday, Tim Russert had
to learn as much he ccould about his guest, what's on the guest's mind - on his or her
issues and then Tim must take the opposite side that helps to cover the burning
questions that Americans want to ask of his guest.
In Tim Russerts own words, "the Meet the Press program becomes a town meeting
for the American people" as well onlookers from around the world, where they all
make an appointment to learn about the US government, fundamental information on education, taxes, war - even peace. Tim Russert had a most enviable, audacious job,
yet he felt blessed to have had the opportunity to step to the plate, reading, thinking
and preparing to meet the press - a task that he took seriously. When he asked his
guests questions that are in the minds of American people, you have the feeling that
you know this man personally.
I am glad that he was able to spend quality time with his family before passing on.
A true father that he was, he was said to have recently returned from Italy where he
and his wife celebrated the graduation of their son, Luke, from Boston. A caring man
that he was, he had also just recently moved his 86 years old father into a more
comfortable home.
Tim Russert departed on Friday the 13th, but Tim represents my definition of a
true icon for Father's Day. His familiar face would forever remain in my memory.
Sleep on Timothy Russert.
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