To the editor: Occasionally, we have the fortune of witnessing leadership that fills us with pride when we cast our votes. Former President Jimmy Carter was one such leader. (“Jimmy Carter, nation’s 39th president who became influential human rights advocate, dies,” Dec. 29)
He was the first president I ever voted for. At that time, I hoped the long trials of the Watergate scandal would finally come to a close.
During his presidency, I didn’t fully appreciate how deeply he was driven by his faith in God and his unwavering commitment to humanity.
My hope is that our nation will recapture its enthusiasm for making the world a better place for all, not just a select few. This would be a fitting tribute to a man who strived every day to believe in the better angels of our nature.
Micki Wood, Fullerton
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To the editor: I had the chance to meet Carter when he was still the relatively unknown governor of Georgia. I was working for a Los Angeles-based business that had just acquired an architectural firm in Atlanta. The head of that company advised that our president and I, as the vice president of public relations, should meet the governor.
Carter’s warmth and the insightful questions he posed immediately impressed me. As we exited the governor’s office, I joked to his aide that Carter should consider running for president. With a Southern drawl, the aide replied, “He’s considering it.”
When Carter eventually pursued the presidency and made a significant impact, it was a personal joy for me. His contributions after leaving office make him dearly missed.
Martin A. Brower, Corona del Mar
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To the editor: How will we remember our 39th president? I hope Americans will offer the respect and love this wonderful man truly deserves.
Recent surveys of historians place Carter in the middle among the 45 presidents we’ve had. Just above him is another Southerner, Andrew Jackson.
Reflecting on his legacy, a few questions come to mind: If he had served two full terms, would Carter have reached such a remarkable old age? Would he have carried out the extraordinary humanitarian works he did globally?
Will we ever see a president again with such profound faith in God, humanity, and the inherent goodness of the American people?
John Ashbaugh, San Luis Obispo
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To the editor: I’ve long admired Carter for his relentless energy and dedication to global service. Reading about his life now, it’s hard not to compare him to the president-elect. Could there be a starker contrast between two men?
One man genuinely cared for people worldwide, actively working to improve lives both with his mind and hands. The other spreads anxiety and fear among diverse groups globally.
One shared his life with the same woman for 77 years, while the other has been thrice married and reportedly unfaithful.
One earned the Nobel Peace Prize through hard work. The other covets the prize without putting in the effort.
We should be thankful that our children and grandchildren have Carter as a role model, providing perspective on the incoming president, who is anything but typical.
Linda Taylor, Santa Barbara
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To the editor: Despite the challenges Carter faced in office, like the Iranian hostage crisis and high inflation, his achievements were significant—in particular, creating 10 million new jobs.
The crowning achievement of his presidency was undoubtedly the Camp David summit with Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin. Their handshake in the White House still stands as a symbol of potential peace in the Middle East.
Much has been said about Carter’s partnership with his wife, Rosalynn. What many don’t know is that it was she who suggested inviting Sadat and Begin to Camp David—the presidential retreat in Maryland. Had President Carter listened to his staff instead of his wife, the summit may never have occurred.
Mr. President, you demonstrated that a strong handshake can be as powerful as any weapon. Rest in peace—your work is complete.
Denny Freidenrich, Laguna Beach
