Yesterday President Jimmy Carter died.

I saw President Carter, his wife and daughter once at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC. It was the summer of 1977. I had graduated from college and was selected for an intern position in the office of Senator Bob Dole. I did not have any friends in the area and explored the city by myself. I wanted to see the Kennedy Center and so bought a ticket for a show by Marcel Marceau. I was “financially challenged” (i.e. poor!) and my seat was high up in the balcony.

The start of the show was delayed for just a moment when an announcement was made: “Please stand for the President of the United States and the First Lady.” As “Hail to the Chief” played, the three entered from a side door, waved for just a few seconds and took the seats. Then the show began.

I was fascinated by the famous mime and, with the rest of the audience, marveled as we saw things that were not there, created by this talented artist. I was so busy applauding that I didn’t see the Presidential family depart.

But I thought about them later. President Carter was elected President in 1976, my first time to vote for a U.S. President. To be honest, I voted for the other guy (President Ford) but that didn’t stop me from standing, being respectful, and thinking about how thankful I am for those who put themselves in the public light. What I saw that night was a mom and dad taking their daughter to see a delightful show.

I get it that I grew up in a different time. A year or so ago, I saw a post on social media that I liked. I commented, using the first name of the author. Later, I realized that she was the mother of one of my school friends. Oh my!! She was always “Mrs._____” to me. I posted an apology immediately. One of my school friends shared that they had been shocked when I had used her first name.

I grew up when adults were all “Mr.” or “Mrs.” And, Presidents were addressed with respect due to the office to which they had been elected or appointed. I try to maintain that respect today no matter who is seated there. Yes, I do my part to hold them accountable to the position, but their actions and decisions do not change my respect for the position of President.

When we visited the Carter Presidential Library I did buy some peanuts to grow (they didn’t) and thought of the farm kid who became President. I also thought about his faith in God, his faithfulness, his belief in peace, his service to the poor and to his church. I appreciated his service.

Reflecting on the Presidential election of 1976, I still would have voted for the other guy. But I am thankful and respectful of all who serve as President. So today John put our flag at half-staff, honoring the life and service of President Jimmy Carter, and today we are praying that those who mourn will also learn from his life, service and faith.

Love,

Jill (just one of God’s kids)

(Paul wrote) “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness”.  1 Timothy 2:1-4

Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. (Romans 13:1)