Steve Buyer: “Ronald Reagan's belief in the ideals of individual liberty reassured America to believe in itself and inspired people…”

“Ronald Reagan's belief in the ideals of individual liberty reassured America to believe in itself and inspired people all over the world. Like a flower perfect in its bud and as it is in its bloom, it spreads its seeds before it dies. So did Ronald Reagan as he spread the seeds of liberty and its attributes to the people of the world through the pursuits of freedom. His critics viewed him as a throwback in time, almost antediluvian; but what Ronald Reagan possessed were principles and ideals that were ageless. They served as guideposts for our country in time. I will always remember his courage to take a stand in the face of adversity, especially the evils of tyranny. He understood that liberty is protected by the vigilant who must be ready to prepare and defend freedom, thereby preserving peace. I will always remember his charm and smile. They were infectious. He was always able to stay above the fray, undetracted and undeterred with his calm demeanor and balanced temperament. I believe his optimism inspired people in more ways than this body could ever articulate. To Ronald Reagan, one cannot believe impossible things, for it oppresses the soul and forks hope. He dared Americans to dream big and made it fashionable to be a dreamer of dreams. His sentimentality reflected his care and concern for people. I thank the Reagan family for permitting the state funeral so that people can mourn their President.”