In Memory of Tim Russert

Friday the 13th is considered a day of bad luck, especially for those who truly believe in the myths of "Friday the 13th." Fortunately, since my marriage, Friday the 13th has been a day of good luck and mystical energy.

Friday the 13th 2008 at 4pm, I turned the TV to MSNBC, to get the latest news. Working as a photojournalist for a few years, I have become addicted to news, always anxious to get the latest news about world events. Friday the 13th was a day that broke my heart when I heard the shocking news of the death of Tim Russert.

What can I say about Tim Russert? If you read the blogs, listen to the news, or listen to the locals in every city in America, the one news story you will hear is, "shocking -- I can't believe such a great journalist and personality is gone." My words about Tim are no different than the other praises and accolades expressed. When you hear the name, Tim Russert, you hear "Tim." Everyone feels as if he was a personal friend and it is such a loss to lose him so unexpectedly.

His achievements are too numerous to name. He shared the love of family. He beamed with a glowing love for his son, Luke. His wife Maureen, and one cannot forget his devotion and dedication to "Big Russ."

The more I read about Tim Russert, the more I admire his tenacity and passion for life. In a world where some people make excuses for not having the time to be there for family members, Tim rose to the occasion. He made certain his father was taken care of. Although I never met Tim, his demeanor appears to be one who never took "No" as an answer. When he confronted detours, he found a way around them. Truly a person to admire!

Serving as a caregiver for my father during his terminal illness, I learned how to take on the challenge when medical professionals whispered, "No." I took the simple word as a way to remove the detour and find a way out of the road block.

Tim Russert was a true role model to all of us. We, as Americans, can learn a lot from someone who believed in the philosophy he expressed so eloquently, "What a great country." When life gives us road blocks or detours, we must find a way to find a new entrance.

Friday, the 13th, was a road block for Tim Russert. Peacefully, he grabbed that challenge, entering the Gates of Heaven, with that passionate smile and gleam in his eyes. Tim Russert, you will be missed by your colleagues, friends and family. My heart breaks for all fathers on this Father's Day, and I wish you God speed. I did not know you personally, but as a professional photojournalist, I ache because you taught us so much about how to conduct ourselves and how to elaborate with passion about the trials, tribulations and joys of life. From one writer to another, I will miss you and your empty chair on Meet the Press.