July 1

Happy Canada Day, Tim and Aileen! We are thinking of you - hoping you are doing something special today...I have a couple of good pieces of news to share with you.First, Andrew is now being trained for his new position. It seems his (female) boss is sensitive to him. He reported yesterday that, for the time being, she is having him work only half days so he won't become overwhelmed with the new data and responsibilities. Pray that he will be clear-headed and able to understand the material well, then act on it efficiently...Next, Dad met a fellow in our old area of East Cobb who seems to want to work with him, collaboratively, on certain projects. This could, of course, be a wonderful opportunity, so keep it in prayer...We had a good weekend with Pat and Maryanne's children. They were mostly very well-behaved but did have to act stern a couple of times. Absolutely hate doing it...Never thought twice about it with you guys, but my grandchildren? A whole different story!...Something I thought you northerners would get a kick out of. After swimming, Anna and Josh sometimes drive themselves back in their little jeep. Maryanne says there are often a few of these little cars parked alongside the real thing! Isn't that hilarious?

A couple of interesting quotes from the wonderful Truman biography Tim sent us:...

The man who insists on seeing all sides of (a question) often can't make up his mind where to take hold...Without any disparagement, that was never a problem for Mr. Truman. He wanted all the facts he could get before he made his mind up. But if he could get only 80% of the facts in the time available, he he didn't let the missing 20% tie him up in indecision. He believed that even a wrong decision was better than no decision at all. And when he made up his mind that was it...

The loyalty of those around Truman was total and would never falter. In years to come not one member of the Truman White House would ever speak or write scathingly of him or belittle him in any fashion. There would be no vindictive "inside" books or articles written about this President by those who worked closest to him. They all thought the world of Harry Truman then and for the rest of their lives, and would welcome the chance to say so.

Looking at Truman, Churchill said slowly,"the last time you and I sat across the conference table was at Potsdam, Mr. President." Truman nodded..."I must confess, Sir," Churchill went on, "I held you in very low regard then. I loathed your taking the place of Franklin Roosevelt." He paused. "I misjudged you badly. Since that time, you more than any other man, have saved western civilization."