Conservatism has lost an icon within its hallowed halls.  I am referring to William F. Buckley Jr., who has gone on to his eternal reward.  I will readily admit, I did not know about him.  However, his regal kind of conservative politics gave rise to a Republican leader that greatly admire, and that is Ronald Reagan.

Yes, I am aware of his outright rejection of the John Birch Society.  I can understand this, as there are some elements, to that group, that I also dismiss.  However, I will say that I admire the man.  He was a defender of his principles.  This is more than I can say for many.  I know of people, if pressed would fold like a piece of wet cardboard.  Whether it be Christianity, politics, or what have you.

William Buckley's Contribution to the Conservative movement is beyond measure, with his Magazine, the National Review.  I read this magazine, in it's online format, quite a bit.  I do not always agree with that which I read.  However, it is an interesting magazine to read.  It helps me to understand what Conservatives are thinking.  As a writer, I like to know what others are thinking and why.

The stream of Conservatism of which he represented, could well serve those up and coming in those ranks.  It is too bad that some are instead, drawing from the likes of Coulter, Limbaugh, and those of that ilk.

The game is changing, the old players are leaving us, and the new players are being left to pick up the pieces and move on.  I can only hope that those left with that responsibility, have picked up on the good things and repeat them, and will see the failures and learn from them and do things differently.

My most heartfelt and sincere condolences are to be given to his family.  It is my hope Mr. Buckley rests in the eternal peace of God.  He has, earned that right.