Hero McCain

Since 1987, this man, John Sidney McCain III, has been serving in the United States Senate representing the state of Arizona.  Senator McCain would describe himself as conservative and traditional, and I have found myself disagreeing with him more often than not, but this blog has never been about me.  It's about making a difference, and in that regard, Senator McCain could easily be our posterperson.

 

The Senator, who was diagnosed with brain cancer last year, has made the decision to discontinue medical treatment, according to a statement released by his family early this morning.  It's not really a surprise.  It's the same kind of integrity that has become his hallmark.

 

It is well known that he was a pilot in the United States Navy and a prisoner of war in Vietnam.  It's also pretty well known that he was an unsuccessful candidate for the Republican presidential nomination in 2000 and then an unsuccessful Republican nominee for President in 2008.  It's a little thing though that first caught my attention:  his birthday.  McCain was born on August 29th (1936), the day after my own birthday (different year of course).  Next week, as he turns 82, I hope you will consider sending warm wishes to this many who has dedicated his entire life to the service of his country.

 

John McCain served in the military, in the House, and in the Senate.  He has fought glioblastoma aggressively and surpassed expectations for his survival.  We hope he can enjoy the rest of his days in comfort and in peace.