Yesterday morning I was honored to attend a breakfast here in Pacifica for our departing Congress Woman Jackie Speier. She has had an incredible life. She was interested in politics from the time that she was a young lady. She got hired onto the staff of Congressman Leo Ryan. She went on a fact-finding trip to Jonestown, Guyana. A mad pastor opened fire and killed several hundred people. Jackie was hit with 5 bullets. She lay on the tarmac of an airport for many hours playing dead. She was rescued by US forces.
Jackie had a long hospitalization. When she recovered, she ran for congress to get elected to the seat of her deceased boss. She came in #3. Jackie did not give up. She launched a political career by running for San Mateo County Supervisor. She defeated a 20- year incumbent. She next ran for State Assembly and won. After some years of service, she moved up to State Senator and did a great job.
As her political career prospered, Jackie married a man named Steve and had two children. Steve was tragically killed in a car crash. Jackie became a single mom for many years until she remarried.
When Congressman Tom Lantos died, she made another run for the congressional seat that was a big part of her life. 15 years ago, Elena and I were at Jackie's election headquarters. I was standing next to Jackie when she was declared the winner of the election. I shared her elation. Jackie was wearing high heel shoes that night. Despite this handicap, she started dancing to rock and roll music. I reminded her of this story yesterday. I finished the conversation with these uplifting words for her as follows:
"Jackie, you are tough!!!"
Everyone have a good day. Give thanks for your good fortune in life. Eat some healthy food and get some exercise. Attend religious services if you are so inclined.
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