Integrity

I got out the Merriam-Webster and looked up "integrity." There was a picture of Tony Snow.

We have lost one of the most loved Washington insiders ever. "Loved Washington insider?" Is that an oxymoron or what?

I recall listening to the "Rush" show one day and hearing Tony sub for Rush. I was taken with the interesting voice and the compassion with which he spoke of sensitive subjects. While obviously conservative he nonetheless had close friends from many backgrounds and political ideologies. Even those with whom he may have had different views remarked that, while tough, he was always fair. He had a way of getting to the heart of issues while still remaining collegial.

More importantly, he loved his family. They were the most important people in his life and he wasn't afraid to say so. He evidently lived his faith. I would like to have heard more about that in the coverage today...but I have heard of his faith in the past.

But fifty-three? Ouch...we are the exact same age. It's time for me to get checked out...inside and out. I owe it to my family. After having lost my younger son just two years ago I don't think my wife and older son could handle another death in the family. Any death is tough, but we have always been a close family. My wife, older son, and I all miss Tim terribly but do hold on to the hope and promise that we will be united with him when we are called home.

Tim, despite hanging out with a lot of people "less conservative" in many ways, still enjoyed listening to folks such as Laura Ingraham and loved Sean Hannity, having met him and personally receiving his autograph on his book. Perhaps Tim and Tony are enjoying a lively conversation in heaven.

I often thought Tony and I could easily have been pals had we met. He was a great musician, in additon to his many other talents, and I felt like I was listening to a friend when he spoke. I suppose many felt that way as well. Seeing the ovation he received as he left the White House at the end of his last day there made it obvious that he was loved and respected.

Goodbye, Tony. Hope to meet you in person one day.