The death of George H.W. Bush this passed weekend hit me unexpectedly hard. As I meditated this morning, I realized why. Bush’s oldest son Neil said, yesterday, “My father led with love.” In fact his last words were in response to his son George’s last words to his father, “Dad, l love you. I will see you on the other side.” H.W. responded, “l love you.” And then he passed …I consider myself very fortunate. See things at times that others might miss. One thing that has filled me, nourished my life has been knowing two great friends. Both are over 90 years old. President Bush of course was 94. Both might be among those you might share a brief smile with when passing by … and simply move on. This would be a mistake.

My two friends are gifts. Slow physically for sure. But the marvel of both? When they sit in front of you … their “light”, alertness, personal authenticity shine through so brightly. Wisdom flows magically from both. Humility is so quietly, wonderfully on display.I love Claude and BB. And I know they love me. They tell me so often. Interestingly both were fraternity brothers at GA Tech. Must’ve been something in the water. Both were very successful. I’ll leave this at that. My relationship with each is very distant from their well known accomplishments and careers.

This weekend I was struck by all the remembrances shared about our deceased president. Karl Rove, Juan Williams, James Baker. On and on. All very tearfully remembering this man with total reverence, and respect. He had accomplished much. I’d witnessed the recent dedication for John McCain. Tough minded, driven, principled. These are wonderful qualities. But I don’t recall seeing the tears flow like those shed for President Bush. I thought, “Why?”

Then it came to me. And I’ll leap to this. George H.W. Bush lived a “Christ like” life. Think about it. Truth, humility, kindness, action focused, loving those less fortunate, appreciative, generous … selfless. Much more. Jesus was H.W.’s role model. He is a role model for us all. George Bush, Claude and BB embraced our Lord’s lead. All three are shining examples of rare individuals who lived and are living their lives radiating … “Christ likeness.” They all were, are deeply committed to their faith in God. This guided them to become the men people knew and loved so.

Interestingly, their living Christ like lives is never top of mind with either Claude or BB. Why. I’ve concluded that living a Christ centered life is never mechanical. Not something one sits at controls and dials in. Rather it springs from an all consuming love that can only come from the heart. It isn’t a part of you. It consumes and is the totality of who you are … ever so naturally. That’s simply who Claude and BB are … always.President Bush’s family is in mourning today. I know how I will be as well when my two great friends move on. Like the president they will leave this earth having impacted many. But I’d like to think… most of all me.

I often ask myself when faced with a tough decision or challenge…Christ likeness. Better expressed maybe … ask yourself, “What would Jesus do?”

I offer this thought here … What would Jesus do?