My heart sits firmly at the back of my throat with each news story I see honoring Walter Cronkite. Not only is it reflecting the historical moments Mr. Cronkite brought to our nation, it is a reflection of my childhood years. Baby boomers grew up with Walter Cronkite doing his best to keep structure and rhythm consistent for families.
Initially, it was not an overwhelming shock at the news of his passing. He was 92 years old. However, as the after shock of an earthquake, within the following week the realization of the depth of our loss engulfed me. As an anchor, the term originated on his behalf, Mr. Cronkite portrayed the resilience he wished for the country he so loved. It was not only a loss of an icon, it was another loss of stability we, as a nation, so dearly need.
His warm, yet sturdy voice comforted us in times of tragedy, while keeping us up-to-date on worldwide news. From the Beatles to Watergate, our nation was blessed with a man who had found his strength, purpose and his gift which he shared with us all.
To have such a task of informing a country of news was small in comparison to all he achieved. His participation within many historical moments, such as D-Day, gave us first hand knowledge of the intimate details we would have certainly missed otherwise.
The eras Mr. Cronkite witnessed and shared with the utmost dignity seem endless. It is truly phenomenal one man could engage in so many historical events within one lifetime. I take pause in the knowledge how, in many ways, he was our father, grandfather, teacher and friend. He was not a stranger sitting at a desk in a television studio, but a wise teller of stories seated in our living rooms each evening.
It is with heartfelt gratitude I acknowledge the monumental loss of an anchor we so fervently need in a tumultuous time. Our nation, and our families, lost an honorable soul.
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