Friday, June 13, 2008

News (and Not)

Tim Russert died this afternoon. I respected Tim and feel terribly sorry for his death. My first thought on hearing the news was for his father, who undoubtedly will be brokenhearted. In Mr. Russert's shoes, I'd be wondering how in the hell such a thing could happen. Big Russ is in his late 80s. Tim was 58.

My second, and most enduring thought, is that life is tenuous for us all. Like I said, not news. But once in a while, something leaps out to remind us that we're all subject to the same laws of nature, no matter how rich or famous or powerful we are (and not). Tim's death is one of those things.

One of the things I admired most about Tim was the joy he seemed to take in his work, his life. His eyes often sparkled and he sometimes twitched as though he could barely contain himself. Love shined from his eyes when he spoke of his father or his son. In a profession marked by cynics, Tim Russert appeared to be a believer.

My prayers are with his family and friends.

3 comments:

mamatulip said...

I was shocked - and saddened, terribly saddened - to hear of his passing. As someone who went to journalism school and worked in the field, I have always respected Tim for the fine, fine journalist - and person - that he was.

We've lost one of our best.

Amber said...

I add my prayers to yours. I am so sad to lose him, because I think he was just amazing in his job. I trusted him. And you could see how much he loved it, you are right.
...so young. Just really sad. And this election won't be the same without him, and his honest hard hitting way.

:(

Jenny said...

He was a joy. I was so sad to learn of his death.