A Father’s Vision for a Better World
My father, Ronald Reagan, rarely spoke to me about his ambitions or the reasons behind his decision to run for president. However, on the night of his inauguration in 1981, he shared with me his deepest motivation. I had been assigned to one of the inaugural balls that evening, but the experience felt overwhelming. Sitting onstage on a metal folding chair, with countless eyes fixed on me, I decided to slip away and retreat to the Lincoln Bedroom in the White House. There, I lay awake, hoping for a visit from Lincoln’s ghost, as legend has it that the former president’s spirit occasionally appears to those who stay in those historic quarters. I had so many questions for him, questions about leadership, responsibility, and the weight of history.
Later that night, my father came to check on me. He sat down beside me on the bed and gently mentioned my early departure from the ball. I apologized, though we both knew I wasn’t truly sorry. Then, in a moment of vulnerability, he shared something profound: “I really believe I can make this world a safer, more peaceful place. That’s why I ran for president.” His words stuck with me, especially the part where he spoke about the world, not just America. It was a reminder that his vision extended far beyond national borders, a sentiment that feels particularly relevant today as America grows more isolated and tensions rise globally.
Lessons from a Father: The Fragility of Democracy
Reflecting on that night often brings me back to the lessons my father taught me as a child. He instilled in me a deep understanding of history, particularly the horrors of the Holocaust, and the idea that no nation is immune to such darkness. He emphasized the strength of American democracy but also its fragility. He often referred to democracy as a “grand experiment,” something that required careful nurturing to survive. Those conversations have stayed with me, especially in these uncertain times. I often wish my father was here to offer his insights, just as I once hoped Lincoln’s ghost might appear to guide me.
My father’s words were not just about politics; they were about the responsibility that comes with freedom. He believed that America’s strength was not just in its military or economy but in its ability to inspire and lead the world. He saw the country as a beacon of hope, a “shining city on a hill,” a phrase he often used to describe America’s role in the world. This vision of leadership and moral authority is something I think we are missing today.
A Legacy of Leadership and Alliances
I’ve also been reflecting on my father’s approach to leadership. He believed in building strong alliances and nurturing relationships with world leaders. I remember the stories he shared about his time in office, from horseback riding with Queen Elizabeth II at Windsor Castle in 1982 to hosting her and Prince Philip at our ranch in Santa Barbara the following year. These gestures were not just acts of diplomacy; they were personal connections that strengthened bonds between nations. Similarly, his friendship with Prime Minister Brian Mulroney of Canada and his historic meetings with Mikhail Gorbachev were pivotal moments in shaping a safer world.
When my father passed away, leaders from around the globe came to pay their respects. Mr. Gorbachev, Mr. Mulroney, and then-Prince Charles were among those who attended his funeral. Margaret Thatcher, who had become a close friend, sent a heartfelt tribute despite her poor health. In his eulogy, Mr. Mulroney quoted William Butler Yeats: “Think where man’s glory most begins and ends, and say my glory was I had such friends.” This encapsulates my father’s belief in the power of alliances and the importance of building trust and friendship on the world stage.
A Vision of America as a Beacon of Hope
In recent years, I’ve heard many people express nostalgia for my father’s leadership, even if they didn’t always agree with his policies when he was in office. I understand that sentiment. While I publicly disagreed with some of his decisions during his presidency, I never doubted his sincerity or his commitment to making the world a better place. He believed that America’s strength was not just about military power or economic dominance but about its ability to inspire and lead with compassion and integrity.
After President Trump’s speech to Congress and the nation, Senator Elissa Slotkin gave the Democratic response, referencing my father’s famous phrase “peace through strength.” She suggested that Ronald Reagan would be rolling in his grave if he heard Mr. Trump use those words. I wish my father could whisper from the grave, reminding those in power today that America’s purpose is to be a beacon of hope, a shining city on a hill that guides others. He believed that America’s strength lies not just in its ability to defend itself but in its willingness to reach out to the world, to share its light and its strengths, and in doing so, become even stronger.
A Final Word on Leadership and Legacy
As I think about my father’s legacy, I am reminded of the lessons he taught me about leadership, compassion, and the importance of standing up for what is right. His vision of America as a force for good in the world is something we need more than ever today. In a time when divisions run deep and trust in institutions is eroding, we need leaders who can inspire us to come together, who can remind us of our shared humanity, and who can lead with both strength and humility.
My father’s ghost may not visit me, but his words and actions continue to guide me. I hope they can guide others as well, especially those in positions of power. The world is still a complicated and unpredictable place, but it doesn’t have to be a scary one. If we embrace the lessons of the past and work toward a future rooted in hope and cooperation, we can create a world that is safer, more peaceful, and more just for all.
