June 12, 1989, as I was listening to newscaster Morton Dean deliver the news of the day, he mentioned that it was President George H.W. Bush’s birthday, his 65th. I was celebrating my 40th — both monumental milestones that receive special attention.
Needless to say, a smile broke out on my face, and I decided to send the president a birthday card, realizing that the chance of him receiving it was very slim, and mentioning the coincidence of our sharing the date.
Lo and behold, several weeks later, I received, on White House stationery, a very nice letter from President Bush stating that Barbara joined him in wishing me a very happy 40th birthday. Now, granted, it wasn’t a signed letter from Washington or Lincoln, but special indeed in its own right. It is framed and sits in proud display in my home to this day.
As we, as a nation, pay our respects to this very fine man, who spoke of gentleness and kindness to one another, tears well in my eyes. Thank you, Mr. President, for your leadership of civility and artful articulation of the American Dream.
Anne Stringham, Salt Lake City
