"No government ever voluntarily reduces itself in size. Government programs, once launched, never disappear. Actually, a government bureau is the nearest thing to eternal life we'll ever see on this earth!" - Ronald Reagan
If we had a glimpse of the afterlife this morning, we might catch Mike and President Reagan having a chuckle together over the news that emissions testing has come to an end here in Tennessee.
One of Mike Carter's biggest skill was his ability to see beyond the impossible, cut through the rhetoric, and find a solution. When told things couldn't be done, he'd quietly get to work. When obstacles and opposition raised against him, he would stand firm.
I miss Mike and his wisdom. As the tears start to roll down my cheeks as I type this, I consider myself fortunate to have gleaned the little bit I could have from his abundance. I try to look through that same lens he looked through when facing difficulties.
Mike would be proud today, but he'd also give everyone but himself as much credit as he could. I know he was especially grateful to Senator Bo Watson for standing by his side and carrying this legislation in the Senate. I am so glad that his wife, Rep. Joan Carter, was able to see this "impossible" task through for him and give him all the credit he is due in such a gracious way.
Jonathan Mason