Before Introductions...a word about Tim Russert

I wrote often in my youth and since leaving those days behind I've often wanted to return to writing. Writing was something I enjoyed, but nothing I ever wanted to tie me down. Over recent months I toyed with the idea of starting a blog as a way to voice my opinions and ideas. However, it wasn't until the tragic passing last Friday of Tim Russert that I finally decided to embark on this adventure. I didn't know Tim personally, and I've never satdown to watch Meet the Press. However, like so many others I felt a connection to Tim. Tim Russert had a way about him. In most cases he was unbiased and in every possible moment he strove to hold our leaders and national figures accountable. However, as it has been so evidently clear in recent days Tim was so much more than a member of the media. He was a true American, a great father, husband and a remarkable friend. His personality was infectious. When you watched Tim on TV you felt as though you were watching a close friend. I took Tim for granted and it was never more apparent than this past weekend. Friday, June 13, 2008, America lost a truly great individual that found a way, even through a subject as tense as politics, to touch us all. God bless you Tim. You will always be missed.