TONY SNOW: REMEMBERING A CATHOLIC JOURNALIST
When Tony Snow passed away a few weeks ago, I was on my way to Ireland and missed the coverage of his funeral and was unable to blog immediately about the departure of a good and decent man and an excellent journalist.
What most struck me about his life was his passionate love of values lived out in public life and his relentless pursuit for truth while at the same time holding a position of his own. I am sure that he, like all of us, had many faults, but it was his particular gift to show forth an optimism about our country and a joy about his own faith and his own family that truly is his legacy to those he left behind. I remember him talking once on radio a few years ago about a trip to Rome he took with his family and how proud the visit made him of his faith. Knowing the cynicism of the world, he still could find the beauty not only in religion but in politics as well. He was a gift to the Bush administration at a time when a fresh and optimistic face was needed. He never pandered, he freely gave his views to the President, and he left with style and dignity as he battled his illness.
His journalistic achievements are many. Surely, he will go down as one of the best press secretaries in history. But more importantly, his legacy as a human being will be honored. He taught us how to live life, even when you can see the end coming swiftly. In a world that knows little value, he was all about values. One doesn't always see goodness in public figures, but Mr. Snow radiated goodness and, from what many others say, much charity toward his fellow human beings.
Very Reverend David O'Connell, President of Catholic University gave a superb funeral homily at the Mass and said, "The measure of this man's life can be found in his character, in his optimism, in his joy and humor, in his courage, in his passion for what was good and right, and in his love for God and family and neighbor and country. Tony Snow did not need a long life for us to measure. It was, rather, we who needed his life to be longer." It's a great homily and you can read the full text here.
Tony Snow will be missed. He was a player in both politics and journalism--a great man has gone. He leaves a legacy of good will in the hearts of both friends and foes. Not a bad way to end a life of meaning and greatness--loved by friends, respected by enemies, and a model of how to live a good life. Rest in Peace, Tony. On our prayers, walk to heaven and see the God who has blessed you so much. And don't worry, your kids and your wife will be fine. Our prayers and support are with them as well.
Really enjoyed your tribute. How refreshing to have the opportunity to witness a man of such character and religious convictions. Especially being involved in Media and politics, part of a fast paced Materialistic World, very few men have the values and statue Tony Snow had. And yes, even in death his boyish charisma and witty personality still seems to exist. I enjoyed you mentioning the years we live not being the value of a man. My 16 year old son brought that to my attention recently also. Tony Snow showed us hard work is worth pursuing and faith is worth believing. Not the value of his bank account or the number of years he lived to, but the heart and soul of a man is the real value, and in Tony Snow we found a rare and wonderful soul and personality. I can honestly say, personally I know allot of fine people but very few that fit that bill. A beautiful salute to a real man found rarely in this day and age. Once again thanks for sharing.......God Be With You!
Posted by: Dragonfly | August 02, 2008 at 10:04 PM