And so we mourn....

Just a few years ago, I sat in front of my TV and watched as a grateful nation said farewell to President Reagan. Who could forget the private moments of tribute that were now open to the world? Lady Margaret Thatcher, against medical advice, came over from England and participated in both services. She and President Reagan had formed a strong friendship, and the paid tribute to that friend and world leader with a reverent, humble, and loving bow at his grave site. Who could forget the dignity of Nancy Reagan during the official services as she had to keep her composure as "First Lady" and not Ronnie's wife? Finally in California, she was able to let her grief show as she held the casket and let the tears flow.

So, this evening, we watch similar moments as President Ford is laid to rest. Before he is returned home, he and Betty Ford again belong to the nation first. President Ford was not elected, but assumed office during a dark period in our history. We were a nation who needed healing and unity. His kindness, quiet strength, candor, compassion, and courage to make the tough decisions are his legacy. Political analysts say that his pardoning of Nixon cost him the election. Maybe they're right. But he pardoned Nixon out of compassion for the nation. We needed healing from the controversy. We needed reassurance from fear that our government could be weakened. In a quiet and deliberate speech and with the stroke of a pen mightier than any sword, this is what he gave us.

As I watched a frail and grieving Mrs. Ford being so tenderly cared for by the escort colonel, I saw the same dignity as Nancy Reagan, and I felt the same pain and exhaustion that she must be feeling so that she can allow the nation to say farewell. Only when the family returns home to the burial site can she become Betty Ford and say her farewell to the man she loved for 58 years.

President Ford, thank you for your character. Mrs. Ford, thank you for dealing openly with issues that "polite society" wouldn't deal with. Thank you for saving countless lives by making people aware of breast cancer and addiction. Thank you both for 865 days of healing and honor.