Why the fanfare for U.S. Sen. John McCain? He was a man who served his country with honor, respected his wife and family, had the courage to admit when he was wrong, and realized the value of listening to one’s opponents. He had close personal friends in opposing parties and worked to find the pragmatic compromise that would be in the best interest of the people of the United States.

He loved our country more than his own personal power. He spoke the truth and recognized the value of listening to one’s political opponents and refused to denigrate them, even in the height of a bitter political battle for the presidency. He earned the respect of his constituents by telling the truth.

Why all the fanfare with his passing? The starkness of the contrast with the character of our current president amplifies the sorrow of what we have lost.

Paul E. Nachtigall

Kailua