My Favorite President

Pass It On is a new, bi-weekly peek inside the heart and mind of Francis Pass…

Listen:

I’ve seen many Presidents in my time here on earth. Some good. Some not so good. But all worthy of respect.

I remember the civil rights movement with President Lyndon Johnson.

And I recall the challenging days of Watergate and Richard M. Nixon.

And of course, everyone cared about President Kennedy.

Well, almost everyone.

My Father was not a fan of JFK… mainly due to the failed Bay of Pigs Invasion.

But I kinda liked ol’ Jack Kennedy. I believe he inspired many people with his words and actions.

“Ask not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country.”

I’ll never forget that. And I’ll always remember where I was when he was shot and killed. But that’s another tale for another day.

Most everyone has a favorite President. I certainly know who my favorite was.

Now I’m sure other people who’ve lived other lives have other opinions, but I was absolutely in awe of Ronald Reagan. He’s not just my favorite President. I consider him to be the greatest President of my lifetime.

Ronald Reagan was a true leader. And a true inspiration.

“Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!”

And what happened? The wall came tumbling down.

Now that’s leadership.

Of course, ol’ Ronnie also had a great sense of humor.

I remember watching his first televised speech after his assassination attempt by John Hinckley. Somewhere in the distance, you could hear a balloon pop. Without missing a beat, President Reagan stopped mid-speech, glanced in the direction of the balloon, and said, “Missed me.”

Yes, indeed, I sure do miss President Reagan.

So, what makes a great President?

I believe our President should represent strength. Just as Teddy Roosevelt famously said, he should “speak softly and carry a big stick.”

Our president should ensure the safety and well-being of the American people. Not just from foreign enemies but also from within.

I enjoy being free. And my idea of a great president is one that protects our freedom… so that every American man, woman, and child has an opportunity to do what they want to do and be whatever they want to be.

Love thy country. Love thy church. Love thy fellow man. Any President who lives by this creed is a great leader in my book.

What about you? What president have you admired the most in your lifetime?

Thanks for readin’…

Francis Pass.

PS – Did you know that George Washington and Abraham Lincoln were both born in February? Happy Presidents Day.