Thank you, Senator John McCain

When it comes to any public servant, critics abound. And, with all public servants, there are valid human flaws. But of the contemporary public servants who garnered my respect in one way or another, McCain is certainly in the top ten.

In at least three legislatively momentous occasions, he was a person who began a process of consensus, or was the key in stemming an unhealthy tide of discourse/policy.  He was able to step back, as good as any legislator I've observed, and think about how an issue impacted his state, the U.S., and the world.

His family members felt safe enough with him as their father or husband to voice their own political views, even when they differed.

And, he served our country in ways -- including as a prisoner of war -- that most will never fully comprehend.

I'm writing in past tense, because given today's headlines, he may not be with us too much longer. But this I know: on the day he leaves us, I will be grieving.  I will also be reflecting personally on how I can glean some of his leadership elements and ensure I'm where I need to be in my public or private service as well.

Thank you, Senator John McCain, for the model of statesman, patriot, and consensus-builder you provided our nation.