One More President Off My List

As I drove through Austin, TX a couple of years ago I stumbled across the Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library. This twist of fate brought a new mission into my life and I have embarked on a quest to visit Presidential Libraries across the country (Rest assured: I have no plans, interest, or gumption to visit the Clinton Hall of Lies).

At the end of a tour of the LBJ Ranch, my friend and I overheard someone mutter to himself "one more dead president off my list". How sad, I thought, that this was just a checklist for him and not an opportunity to learn about men that have shaped our country (for good or bad).

The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, CA is the latest of the libraries that I have been priviledged to visit. The third so far (Kennedy's in Boston was last summer). Words can not describe the inspiration that I felt while looking at the history of one of the... no THE best President this country has ever had.

I was able to tour the Air Force One used by 7 presidents and hear Ronald and Nancy themselves give me a guided tour through the museum. A piece of the Berlin wall sits in the back, and to see the side that faced communist Germany was a reminder of the difference. While the free side was decorated, not a single thing adorned the other side. The back yard of the Libary is an exact replicaof the South Lawn of the White House and to the left of it is Ronald Reagan resting place.

I thought about putting a quote here from Ronald Reagan but couldn't begin to pick just one. The Great Communicator has inspired me over the years with his insight into the beautiful things about this country and also his determination to stand for freedom. I encourage anyone who can to visit this place and be reminded of the man who reminded us of the greatness of America.