A thank you to President Carter

I watched the state funeral for President Carter and was reminded of what a decent man he was and how consequential his presidency was for the country.

President Carter may have been an ordinary man from Plains, Georgia, but he lived a purpose-driven life of service and accomplishments.

President Carter was remembered as a person of character, a decent caring individual who championed the needs of individuals forgotten by society. Whether building a house, combating a disease, ensuring fair elections, seeking peace in the Middle East, protecting the environment or recognizing the basic humanity in all of us, President Carter and the Carter Center have made and continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals.

Not many individuals can be remembered as having lived a life well lived. President Carter will be so remembered and his legacy will endure.

Toward the end of the ceremony, Garth Brooks and Trish Yarborough performed the John Lennon song “Imagine,” a fitting tribute to the man. I can only hope and imagine there will be a time again when we will have a president who lives the values of kindness and compassion for all not just a few. Rest in peace, President Carter.

William J. Filstead

Arlington Heights