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A Giant of a Man
Naturally, I never knew the man. Only as much as you can know someone from watching him on television. However, in watching and listening to the many tributes to him (from the people on Fox News and the various podcasts I listen to), I know this was a man great wit, intellect, and stamina.
I’ve never been to Irish Wake. But it seems like a good tradition: When a loved one passes on, we mourn of course. But we also should celebrate the life of that person. He or she probably changed our own life by passing through it.
In addition to being a towering intellect, Charles Krauthammer was a man who could comfort others, even though he suffered for more than 40 years from a spinal cord injury. People would write him, or search him out, and try to extract from him the secret of how to do deal with a painful issue.
How many of us could go through life in a wheelchair, and yet be ebullient, charming, and always ready to enjoy himself? It takes a special kind of man to endure the kind of daily routine that would (as George Will has pointed out) make most of us want to curl up in the fetal position, never wishing to get out of bed. But Krauthammer had the kind of drive we all wish we had; and the kind of intestinal fortitude that is as fine a testament to the human spirit as can be found anywhere.
It should be inscribed on his tombstone: THIS WAS A MAN!
God rest you, Mr. Krauthammer, and thank you for allowing us to be a small part of your life.
Published in General
Hear hear!
Amen!
I attended a rollicking Irish Wake for my girlfriend that her family had put on after she died of cancer. It was jarring at first, but she came alive again in the love of her family, and I learned this joke:
What is the difference between an Irish Wake and an Irish Wedding? One person.
Thanks, George, very nice tribute.
Of all the Fox News remembrances, my favorite was Juan Williams’s. Watching it brought me closer to tears even than the news of Mr. Krauthammer’s death.
Juan’s remarks were very wonderful and touching as was Brit Hume, who wryly noted that Charles did not immediately have the face for television.
It was a credit to Charles’ greatness, that CNN and MSNBC took time to honor a commentator from the Fox News Channel.
Thanks, Mark!
I liked all the tributes on Fox. I especially enjoy tributes that bring out the human dimensions of a person. I agreed with Charles on almost everything politically, but I find that it often is the personal characteristics of someone that brings out his real character. Thus the inclusion, by me, of the “This was a Man” remark that I wanted on his tombstone.
I knew he was in a wheelchair, but until I read his biography, I hadn’t realize the extent of his disability. And, YET, he remained cheerful, kind, and not at all self-absorbed. He just decided he would have to change a little in how he spent the rest of his life! He was a serious asset to the world! “This was a Man!” indeed!
Amen, @georgetownsend! I feel I’ve lost a mentor: I want to be Dr. K. when I grow up….
I always appreciate your comments, Nanda. Thanks.
An inspiration for overcoming great odds to make a difference, both in his personal life, as well as his professional life.
Rest in peace . . .
The FNC Special: “Charles Krauthammer: His Words.” was incredible. I recommend it highly. It was on last night, I trust that it will re-air in the future.
I am listening the Charles’ audio book. Wonderful.
It will re-air tomorrow night at 8, Gary.
I recorded it last night, and watched it earlier today. I think I will keep it for a while, and watch it again. I also wish it was longer. One of the best things that Fox News has ever put on. Whoever put it together since get some kind of award. It was just right. Mostly Dr. K speaking, with few interruptions. It was insightful and thoughtful. Actually, Hannity – who I don’t think very much of – gave a good impression of Dr. K: With all that he has been through, he has shown remarkable strength. Who among us would have been able to not feel sorry for ourselves every waking moment?
I’d advise anyone who may have missed it to tune in tomorrow night.
Here is a charming – and very apt, it seems to me – obituary from City Journal…..
https://www.city-journal.org/html/indispensable-man-15983.html?utm_source=City+Journal+Update&utm_campaign=40563612f5-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2018_06_23_02_52&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_6c08930f2b-40563612f5-109436857
That would be Bret Baier and the Special Report staff…I agree.
Thanks. Wonderful editing.
Just reiterating George’s comment at #12. The FNC special will re-air tonight (Sunday, June 24) at 8PM if anyone who missed it would like to see or record it. It’s well worth it.
Thanks, She!
I was think about it last night, as I was trying to fall asleep. They did such a marvelous job of editing it. Bret spent hours with Charles, and they had to pick out the most salient parts. They did it so seamlessly. Just the right amount of comment, to leave for Charles to expound on several things.
There are so many different kinds of talent in the world. From putting a ship in a battle to competing in the Olympics; from writing a book to putting together a newspaper column; from acting in motion pictures to putting together a show like “His Words”. And I marvel at all of it!
As well, “Charles Krauthammer: A Life That Matters”, the special highlighting the release of Things That Matter is here . Enjoy!