"We are a nation of communities- a brilliant diversity spread like stars, like a thousand points of light in a broad and peaceful sky." President George H. W. Bush

George H. W. Bush died at the age of 94, just seven months after Barbara,  his beloved wife of over 70 years. The nation is in mourning, not just for the loss of a great man, but for the kindness and decency he brought into the world.

Mr. Bush made his life one of love for family and service to his country,  I do not idolize him, but I do admire him.  He volunteered to serve in World War II, and then made his fortune in the oil business, which was so new and risky at the time. He followed his higher calling to serve the country he loved, a job he continued for all of the years of his life.  He served on many committees and charitable organizations long after his Presidency ended, continuing to exemplify his spirit for volunteerism. .

I have listened to some of the talk shows, and the passing of 41 has made Americans reflect on the manners and persona of the President.  George H. W. Bush worked with all branches of the government in a true bipartisan effort, aimed toward improving the lives of the American people. He signed the Americans with Disabilities Act, which helped to level the playing field for those who wanted to compete, but could not open the door. George H. W. Bush may have been the President with the most encompassing view of diversity. 

Perhaps one of his greatest gits was to his family.  He made every grandchild feel that he was the "favorite," Interviews with Jenna and Barbara Bush show that although he had the weight of the world on his shoulders, he was totally present in their lives, never leaving them to do "work." His love for family shows us the strength of love and its everlasting effect on others.

Others more informed and more eloquent than I will eulogize Mr. Bush.  I am grateful he was my President and the leader of one thousand points of light for so many in our world.  God speed, Mr. President.  You made a difference for so many.  

As always, I welcome your comments and suggestions. 
Rittman Publishing, LLC ®

Please invite Grady Gets Glasses (and me) into your school.  if you are not in the Pittsburgh area, we do virtual field trips with a group called Field Trip Zoom. www.Fieldtripzoom.com  GRADY GETS GLASSES was the winner of Best New Children's Book 2016 and 2018 (new edition) from The Authors' Zone.Grady also won a 2018 prestigious Moonbeam Award for Best Children's Book with Merchandise.

Visit Dede's webpage for complete details on her award-winning book, STUDENT TEACHING: THE INSIDE SCOOP FROM A MASTER TEACHER. Many colleges have made the book required reading. Signed copies are available  www.dederittman.com Dede is also a national speaker on The Three C's for Classroom success: Confidence, communication, and Creativity; Avoiding Teacher burnout; and many other inspirational topics. 

I LOVE writing. And I love writing children's books- my newest passion. Although it will be a ton of work, I am looking forward to selling my books.  Since I was a secondary teacher, I know that I have much to learn about elementary students, and I will have to follow my own advice and be my genuine self.  However, I also know that I am passionate about helping kids who have to wear glasses, and that GRADY GETS GLASSES sends a positive message. I am willing to work hard and do all the things that also made me a successful teacher for 37 years. I remain inspired! 

Elementary teachers in Western Pennsylvania and beyond - I am willing to come into your classroom in person or as a virtual field trip through a group called Field Trip Zoom.  Check them out!  http://www.fieldtripzoom.com/ 

Teacher friends- let me know if you want me to read GRADY GETS GLASSES at your school. I am willing to come in to discuss the creative writing process, why writing is important, and personal fulfillment through writing, along with reading my book.  I would appreciate the exposure, and I would make signed copies available for purchase in your classrooms following the reading.  Please email me at dederittman@gmail.com  The website www.gradygetsglasses.com now has plush Grady bunnies for sale!

Please like Dede's new page Grady Gets Glasses for updates about her children's book. https://www.facebook.com/gradygetsglasses?ref=hl 

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