Yesterday afternoon, politicians, journalists, news executives, friends and family members gathered at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. for a 90-minute memorial service honoring the late Tim Russert.
The moving ceremony reached an emotional peak when Mr. Russert’s 22-year-old son Luke took the stage and spoke eloquently about his father’s unfailing optimism, his faith in God, and his enthusiasm for life.
"Great men often lead with their egos," said Luke Russert. "Tim Russert led with his heart, his compassion, and, most importantly, his honor. He had a great time living, and is no doubt having the time of his life now in heaven."
"So, I ask you, this Sunday, in your hearts and in your mind, to imagine a Meet the Press special edition, live from inside St. Peter’s gate," he added. "Maybe Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr will be on for the full hour debating. Perhaps JFK and Barry Goldwater will give their two cents about the 2008 election. And we could even have Teddy Roosevelt for the full hour talking about the need for a third party."
"George Bernard Shaw said, this is the true joy in life, being used for a purpose, recognized by yourself as a muddy one, being thoroughly worn out before you are thrown on the scrap heap, being a force of nature, instead of a feverish, selfish little clod of ailments and grievances," said Mr. Russert. "Well, my dad was a force of nature. And now his own cycle in nature is complete. But his spirit lives on in everybody who loves their country, loves their family, loves their faith, and loves those Buffalo Bills."
"I love you, dad," he concluded. "And, in his words, let us all go get’ em."
