My wife and I were in Atlanta today at the Capitol. I actually got to stand at the podium during the morning session of the House of Representatives and make a few comments to the group.
As I suppose you know by now, I have spoken too many times to even think about. But standing in that historic place was a little different. It was so different that I forgot to publicly thank the Speaker of the House for inviting me and Rep. Wilkinson and the others for sponsoring the resolution to bring me there. Not only is that the polite and right thing to do but it is protocol in the House of Representatives.
So, since I can’t do it again there I will do it here:
Thank you Mr. Speaker for inviting me today and thank you Rep. Wilkinson for sponsoring the resolution presented to me today. And thank you Rep. Dempsey, Rep. O’Neal, Rep. Talton and Rep. Ehrhart for co-sponsoring the resolution.
It really was quite an honor for me. And it was a very special moment for my wife.
My father in law, the late Ralph Underwood, was a member of the Georgia House of Representatives some 45 years ago. He died suddenly 35 years ago. My wife was very close to her dad and has many fond memories of being at the Capitol many years ago. This morning she was flooded with memories as she made her first visit back to that floor since she was a little girl and served as a Page. I knew it was a special and even emotional moment for her.
Additionally my brother in law, Rudy (Ralph’s only son), handled most of the behind the scenes logistics to get me there. Rudy is a veteran lobbyist and took us around to introduce us to many folks, including a visit with the Lt. Governor Casey in his office. Rudy was in the gallery when Kathy and I were at the podium.
In my short comments I mentioned my pride of being raised in the community of Reynolds, GA and I mentioned a couple of the incredible people who came from there who served at this Capitol. I mentioned a former Lt. Governor of our State, Garland Byrd and I mentioned my father in law, Ralph Underwood.
As I was thinking about what comments I would make this morning, it dawned on me that I had an opportunity of a lifetime not only to be recognized in that historic place but I had an opportunity to plug the incredible community where I was raised. And trust me that community was more than incredible.
And in doing that I also had the opportunity to remember and honor my wife’s dad and my children’s granddad. My children never got to meet this granddad. And since they have watched the video of the session this morning, we are already getting more questions from them about their Grandfather Ralph and his public service to the State of Georgia.
I am aware that it has been over 45 years since Ralph Underwood was on the floor of the House of Representatives in our Capitol in Atlanta.
But in some strange way, I had a strong feeling he was there today.
And that is a humbling thought.
3 comments:
I'am sure you did well at the podium.
The Capitol is an awesome place. I feel the history when I walk through the door. I am sure that you did well. You always do.
Bruce,
Kathy, Rudy and I have so many wonderful memories of being in Atlanta with Mama and Daddy. Being a Page was an experience I will never forget. I was so proud of Daddy and melted everytime he called me "Sugah", which is pronounced "Sugar". Daddy would have been so proud of Kathy's choice for a husband. I know you made Daddy proud when you addressed the General Assembly.
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