Tim Russert: A Legacy of Joy

Thinking back over all of the Sunday mornings and marathon Tuesday evenings, Tim Russert’s gleeful smile stands out above all. It has always been clear that Russert was joyfully engaged in his life and his work. The man behind the desk delighted in the nuances of Washington politics and its players.

This evening, as his colleagues pay tribute we learned about the man and his life. We learned that Tim’s career with Daniel Patrick Moynihan began as a volunteer. He was surround by those with political pedigrees and deeper connections, yet it was Tim who stood out. Later at NBC, he had to be coaxed to make the move in front of the camera, joking that he had a face made for radio. Yet he quickly established himself as a reporter with integrity, a moderator with a unique command of the facts, and an educator with respect for his audience. His success was greater than his knowledge or who he knew.

Tim Russert showed up in life and at work without a mask. He did not put on the suit of a TV Personality. He simply showed up as Tim. He brought his joy, his zeal, his affability, his intelligence. It was, as we learned today, the same Tim Russert that showed up in his friendships, his community, his church, his family. Without ever raising his voice, he inspired us and made want to learn more.

Tim Russert knew what he did well and worked hard to be the best – as a newsman, a colleague, a mentor, a friend, a family man, a son. He let his values and his joy guide his steps in life and in doing so, became a beacon for others.

Over the next few days, as the tributes expound on the life Tim Russert lived, as we turn on Meet the Press and realize Sunday morning will never be the same, as we celebrate Father’s Day, we will have his legacy to reflect on – that of a well lived life.

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