The Reagan Centennial

Had he lived past 2004, President Ronald Reagan would have been 100 years old today. As a youngster, I remember Reagan quite well, thought him to be a good speaker and a soothing voice in times of tragedy; and as I grew older, I read about what he did as president and admired him even more!

In terms of endorsing and articulating Conservatism, Ronald Reagan was the total package! George W. Bush had his conservative moments, but overall, was not as conservative as Reagan. Faced with great challenges in terms of righting the economic ship, bringing the Cold War to an end and raising the military strength and worldwide respect of the United States, he was successful in his eight years in Washington. Furthermore, whether being shot at ("Tell Nancy I forgot to duck") or speaking of/to adversaries, humor was a mainstay in presidency, as was positivity and optimism.

In the end, Ronald Reagan trusted the American people over Congress and effectively went directly to the American people to achieve success in his agenda. There are many lessons to be learned from Ronald Reagan and it is my hope that both political parties study closely, his leadership during those eight years; not just in words, but in action!

Thank you, President Reagan, for your service and contributions, as you have and still do inspire many!