Happy 93rd Birthday, Pres. Jimmy Carter

[Grammy23]

1. He has spent his "retirement" working on many projects to better humankind.

He and his bride have built a legacy far beyond anything they could have envisioned. I am still proud of the ballot I cast for him in 1976, my first. I know he was caught up in the politics going on when Reagan was elected and it is a shame he didn't get a crack at a second term.

But I guess the biggest lesson to take away from the Carters is that a single defeat need not stop you from doing great things to make the world a better place. They could have retreated to their farm, lived out their lives quietly and privately. But they chose not to do that. Their mission was to make the world better and kinder, safer for as many as they could reach. While not having the lofty position of the Presidency, they did have the impact of being a former President and First Lady. So they took that legacy, ran with it and succeeded beyond their wildest dreams. It is a great lesson for all of us. Keep pursuing your dreams for as long as you draw breath!

Happy Birthday, Mr. Carter and may you and Mrs. Carter enjoy many more!