.  :  |  A R C H A I C  |  :  .     ______________
           .  :  |   N E T W O R K S  |   :  .

Many people have said David Gregory or Chuck Todd:

Andrea Mitchell?

I haven’t really looked for many role models in my life, having somewhat of a fierce streak of independece, but I may have chosen one. Tim Russert was a very good man, and we could all learn a thing or two from him.

Russert was a successful professional at the very pinnacle of his profession, respected more than probably any other individual in television news broadcasting, definitely so in the political world. He was also successful in his personal life. Russert teaches us that being FAIR does not mean presenting two opposing viewpoints, but rather comes from LISTENING, and a willingness to engage in CONVERSATION. Fairness comes not from having no opinions or preconceptions, but rather in a respect for an open forum and dialogue. Politics does not have two sides, and while some would like “fairness” to mean “one representative from each of the two main parties,” the reality is that politics has as many sides as there are people paying attention. Of course, as is human wont, these can be classified and categorized, but just the existence of the discussion of “wings” of parties falls as evidence of the inadequacy of the FCC’s, and Congress’s, analysis.

As Sam Donaldson said on This Week, Russert understood better than anybody that “the reason political reporters are there is not to speak truth to power - today’s truth is tomorrow’s falsity - but to make those who say we have the truth explain it, defend it.” And, while those of less who are lesser beings might forget it, and we might not LIKE it, this is entirely true. Ultimately, it is the AMERICAN PEOPLE who are the judge of truth and those who must speak truth to power.

But, very importantly, this communication, forums, and discussion was important in another part of Russert’s life. It is a dark twist of fate that Russert was taken two days before Father’s Day. Russert was widely regarded as the perrenial family man, and he very actively showed and communicated his love to his son, Luke. He also showed how to balance his work and his family, and to be fully dedicated to both.

Being someone whose father had difficulty expressing these things to us growing up, I really do value it. I’m always a sucker for stories of missed opportunities between fathers and sons for the expression of their feelings for each other and the reinforcement and safety that it brings. Men for centuries have clung to an emotionally dishonest stoicism, but this is not something fundamental to masculinity or fatherhood.

It takes quite a bit of work to be able to reflect upon yourself and genuinely, in naked honesty and lack of pretension, and LIKE yourself. I am thankful every day that I’ve come to a point in my life of acceptance of most of the things around me, and a genuine liking of myself. I’m by no means perfect or even great, and like every bruised and damaged person, my self-esteem lacks. But, overall, I try my hardest to be my best, and Tim Russert is a good model for hints as to what the best might look like. I know that if I ever do have children of my own, I could only wish to be as good professionally, to myself, and to my family as Tim Russert was.

Monday, June 10, 2008
Washington D.C., National Small Business Summit

John McCain: “I will use the veto as needed - I will veto EVERY SINGLE BEER.”

Remember, in November, save beer and arugula! Vote Obama!