The Reagan Funeral

I was also moved by what I was able to see and hear today of the Reagan funeral and later, the committal services in California.

The elder President Bush's comments were heartfelt and moving, especially coming from a man not gifted in public speaking.

Margaret Thatcher's tribute, put on videotape because encroaching years and illness prevent her from speech-making, was more touching than I imagined possible. To my surprise, she referred to the late President repeatedly as "Ronnie," denoting the personal as well as political closeness that characterized thea side of Thatcher I'd not seen before, was the visage of the "iron lady," defying age, frailty, and death to fly both to Washington and after a long day, on to California. I was impressed that she sang our national anthem at the committal service and standing on her own, she paused before the casket to pay her last respects.

The eulogies given by the late President's surviving children were each, in their own ways, effective and affecting. Each, again in their own ways, gave testimony to their father's faith and the assurance with which they faced his death, believing that he is with God in heaven. Each showed remarkable polish and Ron P. Reagan showed flashes of the Reagan wit, wielded with a delicate and deft touch.

I loved the gracious, faithful words to Nancy Reagan, uttered by the Reagans' pastor. As my wife said, both he and Michael Reagan managed to give witness to their faith in Christ without being heavy-handed.

I watched the MSNBC coverage tonight because I so appreciate Chris Matthews' enthusiasm and his love for country and his respect for people of goodwill from all sides of the political spectrum. He recognizes that at the end of the day, we're not Republicans or Democrats, just human beings peculiarly blessed to be Americans.

May we all remember that from those to whom much has been given, much is expected. That may be the best lesson we can draw from the week of pageantry, remembrance, and goodbyes we have just completed.