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Katie Davidson: Barbara Bush served with grace

I was writing yesterday and had the news on in the background when I heard that Barbara Bush had passed away. I’d heard the day before or so that she had declined going to the hospital and was going to stay home with her family; it seemed evident that she knew her time to go was close.

Barbara Bush passed away at age 92. I’m tearful as I write this; almost inexplicably sad. We all pass away, but there’s something else that is passing, as well.

I made fun of her pearls more than once, I know, and I now apologize.  They were a part of who she was — a lady. She lived in service of her country and her family (though not necessarily in that order) and served with a grace that is rarely, if ever, seen these days. She didn’t like braggarts, was self-deprecating and had a wonderful sense of humor.

Her wit and intelligence were evident in her role as First Lady; literacy for all was her target ambition. She, like myself, was able to make fun of herself being old and not in “haute couture.”

Her generation was so much gentler and kinder than the generations removed from her; she and George H.W. Bush quietly and discreetly railed against the folly we see now. They were too well-bred to be overtly disapproving of the current administration but be sure they commented in their own way; i.e., not attending the inauguration.

Grace. That innate, inimitable quality in a person that is not just admired, but also aspired to; quietly being one’s true self.

Back to the pearls?  I also make fun of Queen Elizabeth’s handbag; I always wonder what she has in it — credit cards, make-up? Surely not. I may stop doing that now — or not.

Thank you, Barbara Bush. More than likely we disagreed on more than we agreed, but it may make this more poignant than I’d thought. You lived a fine, honest life and passed away with your “precious” husband holding your hand. Namaste.

Katie Davidson

Oak Creek


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