In This Moment
A FarewellNews of Peter Jennings' death was noted with a small photo with a caption in today's paper. The ABC World News Tonight with Peter Jennings created a fuller, poignant portrait of the newscaster, personally and professionally. All but a few moments were dedicated to their comrade and friend.
Apparently Mr. Jennings was surprised at the outpouring of support and kindness shared with him after his April announcement that he was battling cancer. Letters, emails, hugs in the hallway of his apartment building from neighbors, and fervent testimonies from numerous cancer survivors offering a club membership of tough roads and survival strategies.
But it was the evening newscast that underscored Peter Jennings' own belief at the end of his life that he had lived well. His colleagues spoke of a man of excellence in what he did, but more so, how he lived. Mostly, he cared about people and he expressed that clearly, in many ways. A young reporter's parents received a call from Mr. Jennings before their son's first report from a war zone aired, so they would know their child was safe. Before meeting with Mikhail Gorbachov, a Louisville Slugger and a Raggedy Ann doll were procured for his grandchildren. His understanding of world events as seen through the observations of children were sought out and treated with respect.
My point in remembering Peter Jennings is not to eulogize him. Others will, and should, especially those who knew and loved him best. It is to say, as did Willa Cather, through the title character in her book, My Antonia, "Ain't it wonderful how much people can mean to each other."
It is a Biblical concept, this sense of connection to each other that can be described as deep affection, respect, admiration and love. In describing Jesus, each gospel writer allows a great leacher, prophet and savior to emerge. But John's one sentence speaks of Jesus the friend: "Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus." (John 11:5)
Jesus spent time with them in their home, including the Passover, a true family celebration. One can only surmise that in the remembrance of the Passover ritual and tradition, there were also stories told of past gatherings, and some laughter. We can also hope that, after Jesus' passing, they kept telling the personal stories shared among old friends that keep people a part of our memories long after they have moved on from our daily lives. They knew Jesus as a dear friend, in town for a few days for his work, who would make time to sit at their table and share their lives. Somehow, their personal stories have blended into their friend's public life, and we know their names today.
Ain't it wonderful how much they all meant to each other.
Until next time, God's Blessings
posted by Cory L. Kemp @ 2:47 PM
<< Home