Description
An exuberant autobiography that began with a fistfight at a get-acquainted dance, then on to an adventurous path, cluttered with potholes and uncertainty that took me beyond what I could ever imagine. Ultimately, it's about how you will be remembered: is it your notable accomplishments or the values associated with who you were?
Re-visiting my life as a congressman, I began to realize this could be the inkwell that I'd dip my quill into as I shared how becoming a Christian, plus the influence of notable leaders and plenty of serendipity that helped shaped my public persona. It was a reminder about the importance of the higher standard in serving the public interest, obviously lacking in today's political culture.
During my fourteen years in Congress, I witnessed first-hand the civility and trust among the leadership of both political parties that trickled down to the committee rooms and in the House Chamber that lead to notable accomplishments. My own achievements on international trade, human rights, preserving our natural resources happened only because of bipartisan support.