Laura Bush – An Inconspicable Southern Lady
Growing up, my grandmother often said, “Ladies don’t appear flagrantly in public places.” At the time I wasn’t aware of what she meant. The older I get, the more often I recognize her statement as fact, and then I realize what she meant by her statement.
For those who are already getting up a good case of ire and dander over the comment, please keep reading and you’ll understand it isn’t a taunt against women, or even anti-liberation, but rather a deep seated statement of personal value and understanding.
When Grandma got upset over events of the times, she talked to Grandpa. She was often his motivation, his support and his conscience in political arenas. If Grandma said, “That ought to not happen.” You can bet your bottom dollar, the next day, Grandpa was out there voicing his opinion and making sure that “That not happen.” A simple “Tsk, tsk,” from Grandma set the wheels in motion and soon there would be “you know what” to pay if something wasn’t done about it.
Last night I read an article about George W. Bush visiting Fort Hood in a secret, un-publicized visit, offering support and encouragement to the families and friends of the victims of the recent terrorist attack. Laura Bush received a comment in the article “Laura arrived with former President Bush” in true southern lady fashion. While she didn’t make rave reviews in the article and there was no fashion statement about what she wore to the event, Laura’s presence there is acknowledged.
The comment about Laura brought back the word “flagrantly” because I hadn’t thought of it in a while… Laura’s actions are polite, recognizable and considerate, but never conspicuous. She simply goes about her business, supporting her husband and encouraging the nation, supplying the simple gift of hospitable motivation she’s become known and recognized for, but none would call her flagrant. All would recognize her easy smile, bright eyes and gentle personality and know, this woman is a lady – beyond all else. While Laura probably deserves the title “Coolest Woman on the Planet” I believe, I’d be remiss if I gave it to her, because she’s clearly the “Warmest Woman on the Planet” in terms of her caring concern and simple forms of encouragement.
Laura Bush – this lady recognizes and appreciates your influence on our lives. Thank you!
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