God bless you, Rush. Thanks for everything. You were there for us. You were even there for the people who hated you. You genuinely wanted what was best for everyone.
I just wanted to put down some thoughts and feelings that have come to mind. I was out running errands today and was stuck in traffic when the top of the hour came around. Reflexively I tuned in as I have countless times since 1989 when I first discovered him and quickly became hooked. He was so much fun, so lighthearted, and oh, so right! I was always a Reaganite, so I was thrilled that there was a forceful and thoughtful voice for conservatism that had a showman's flair.
Today, a strange voice, a somber, unshowmanlike, and soft voice came on the air where Rush's voice booms. I knew immediately. He was gone.
It seems unreal. I thought we'd have more time with him. He sounded so good just recently. It's probably a grace that the very end came quickly. He always knew how to sign off.
I am surprised at how hard I am taking this. We knew we were nearing the end. We even kind of hoped he would not have to watch what is now happening in D.C.. I was mentioning only yesterday how much I miss Scruton and Schall, but Rush, I am sorry to say, has meant more to me than even my own father over the last thirty years. I've certainly spent far more time with Rush than the man who managed me until I graduated from high school. I've had lots of surrogate fathers, and in many ways Rush became one, even one of the best ones.
He was a rock. We could always count on him. We knew he'd shoot straight with us and tell us what he earnestly believed. He taught me more than I can ever remember. He spurred immeasurable amounts of solid thoughts. He provided countless laughs. He planted many valuable seeds. I surely wouldn't have gotten involved in politics professionally in 2004 if he had not constantly convinced me that we can make a difference. I surely would not have been writing scripts for my own show this morning if Rush had not paved the way.
I talked to him on the air twice. Once after Dick Armey in '96 and again in 2008 and he bestowed two huge compliments I'll always cherish. I still have my original copies of his books and two of his ties.
Rush was a flawed man, but a great one. I am a better man because of Rush. I thank God for him and hope and pray God's love envelopes him and his family, including all his fans.
