Impact on a Young Life

When my father returned home from work that evening, he assured me in a Reaganesque tone that everything would be fine. This day forever changed my opinion of toughness and prepared me for a life of resolve. After dinner, my father gathered the seven of us together to write a letter to the ailing Mr. President.

In my early childhood days, one thing stood out above all others...the fear of the USSR. In the late 70's I was sure that we were done...sure that the US would be invaded by the Soviets and the Cubans...sure of a nuclear end to my life. Jimmy Carter offered little hope for a young man with such big fears, and little hope to grown men with such thin wallets and empty gas tanks. The national mood was scared and depressed. Then along came Mr. President.

''Recession is when your neighbor loses his job. Depression is when you lose yours. Recovery is when Carter loses his.'' -- Reagan 1980 Presidential campaign

Even as a child, I can remember how his campaign made me feel proud and strong. He made us feel like Americans again. His charm, whit and strength pulled this country from the depths of insecurity to new levels of courage and prosperity. When he came on the TV I felt safe...when he came on the radio I felt strong. He gave hope to a young man...no longer did I fear an imminent Soviet invasion...Mr. President would simply not allow it.

It was less than three months into his term when John Hinckley Jr. attempted the assassination. By this time I was already a feisty young republican with strong convictions for my President. When he was shot I was devastated.

The bullet pierced the president's skin under his armpit and lodged itself inches from his heart puncturing his lung. But this did not stop Reagan from walking himself into the hospital. Even with a bullet in his chest Reagan was the prankster. He jokingly told the hospital staff that he hoped they were all republicans.

''Honey, I forgot to duck.'' -- Reagan to Nancy after the assassination attempt

When my father gathered us all to write Mr. President a get well letter, none of us had any idea that the President would reply. Several weeks later we received a letter in our mailbox from the White House. It was from Ronald Reagan. While still recovering, the President of the United States took a moment of his time to write us back. This simple gesture forever solidified my admiration for him and helped shape my views of the world.

While President Reagan is remembered for tackling communism and bringing never before seen prosperity to America, I remember him for writing me a letter. I remember him for acknowledging his citizens. I remember him for revolutionizing America.

President Ronald Reagan didn't have to write us back...but he did. His letter remains framed, hanging in my foyer for all to see.

''Government is not the solution to our problems. Government IS the problem!'' -- Ronald Reagan

Farewell Mr. President

Luke Hodgens is the editor of
Powerhouse Profits a conservative investment newsletter. Click here to read more of his cogent analysis."