Legal Commentary

Tim Russert dies far too soon

By David A. Giacalone

Many others have expressed their sadness over the death yesterday of NBC’s Tim Russert. I can’t match the eloquence, emotion or personal anecdotes offered by Tim’s many friends and colleagues. But, I must say that I will miss Tim Russert on Sunday mornings. His skill, preparation and persistence helped millions of Americans to be better informed about our nation’s politics — without shrillness or bias and with a straight-forward, common touch. See “Tim Russert, host of ‘Meet the Press,’ dies of a heart attack at age 58″ (Buffalo News, June 13, 2008); “Tim Russert, 58, NBC’s Face of Politics, Dies” (New York Times, June 14, 2008); “Obituary: Journalist Revitalized Washington Talk Shows” (Washington Post, June 14, 2008); “An Appreciation of Tim Russert” (Charlie Rose, June 13, 2008, includes videos with Charlie interviewing Russert).

WaPo columnist David Broder says this morning, “What the television audience did not know was how generous Tim was in his personal relationships. Family came first, but he took the time for friendships, and he nourished them. That is why his death yesterday leaves such a large void in this community.” (”The Many Gifts of Tim Russert,” Washington Post, June 14, 2008) Like Tim, I am 58 years old. His premature death reminds me to live each day more fully — with passion and commitment to family, friends, and excellence. And, to keep my punditry “pointed but polite.”  update (June 15, 2008): Tom Brokaw moderates a special edition of Meet the Press, Remembering Tim Russert.

the blooming cockscomb
dies
standing up

one dies out
two die out…
lanterns for the dead

planting a pine too
for after I die…
evening cool

……… by Kobayashi Issa, translated by David G. Lanoue

[Forest Lawn Cemetery, Buffalo, NY]

 

poem: David Giacalone
photo: Arthur Giacalone

- pub. pending, Simply Haiku, Modern Haiga, Autumn 2008 -

Full post as published by f/k/a . . . on June 14, 2008 (boomark / email).