TRIBUTE TO A GREAT PATRIOT AND MAN OF CHARACTER

Women's Federation for World Peace USA salutes George H.W. Bush, a great man, patriot, father, friend, and leader, a model U.S. president and former president, who departed from us peacefully after a rich and fulfilled life.

Watching the funeral service here at the Washington National Cathedral and listening to the deep and moving testimonies, stories and anecdotes about his character, lifestyle, and leadership, we feel as if a how-to manual was presented to all of us, chock-full of life lessons to learn from. His faith in God, family, and others, his friendships, his ability to reach across the aisle, and so much more were but an expression of his deeper love for God, Christ, and humanity.

We would like to highlight a few quotes, some paraphrased, shared about him and from him by his close friends and colleagues, but also by his son and former president, George W. Bush, which we can learn from and live by:

"Preach Christ at all times -- if necessary, use words."
"Leave the world better than you found it."
"Hatred corrodes the container it's carried in."
"Those who travel the high road of humility will not encounter heavy traffic."
"LOYALTY to his God, family, friends, and country."
"He had the capacity of giving of himself and to listen to and counsel others."
"Die young -- and as late as possible." 
"Life also includes failures … yet setbacks can build strength."

One of his great accomplishments also lies in having been married for 73 years (to the same woman, his high school sweetheart), and always making time for his family, educating and giving guidance, and being there for his children when they needed him.

We will be speaking of and remembering former President George H.W. Bush and his exemplary life for many years to come, as he truly represented the best of America.

Yet, as his pastor from Houston, Texas, said that: "This is not the end. This indeed marks also a new beginning. And as President Bush left a big hole behind, we are all called upon now to fill it."

With gratitude in our hearts to our God for such an exemplary human being, we congratulate President George H.W. Bush for a LIFE WELL LIVED!

May he rest in peace!