Since the beginning of this year, I have been thinking about the life and impact of Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States.

A Man of Great Moral and Ethical Character

Former President Carter died on December 29, 2024, at the ripe age of 100. His funeral brought together all the living former presidents to honor his life and contributions. I watched the proceedings of his funeral, and one thing stood out: Jimmy Carter was a man of fantastic moral and ethical character, admirable traits that seem to be absent in our political discourse of today.

During his funeral proceedings, many people commented Jimmy Carter was more effective in his post-presidency than during the time he served. He was highly criticized for “being held hostage” in the White House when American Diplomats were hostages in Iran. It was reported he did not actively go out and campaign for his second term, because he was focused on the pressing issues he was dealing with during his presidency. His famous speech on the topic of a “Crisis of Confidence” talked about important things Americans needed to do to prepare for the future. It wasn’t all rosy, and he intended to send the message to Americans that we had to “tighten our belts.” This talk, however, was met with widespread disapproval.

While many of the actions above didn’t help him in leading the country, I appreciate his intentions.

“Remember Where You Come From”

In the tributes given, I was reminded of something my mom used to repeat to my siblings and me when we were kids: “remember where you come from.” What I loved about Jimmy Carter were the stories about how he was the same person at the family dinner table as he was with diplomats.

Few people have come close to resolving tensions in the Middle East as Jimmy Carter, and he was ahead of his time in installing solar panels in the White House.

Among the aspects I admire most about him was his overwhelming commitment to his wife of 77 years and his family.

A Promise To Tell The Truth

My wife, Lisa, commented to me as I watched the funeral, “You must have really loved him.” She knows I care a lot about truth and honesty, and President Carter promised this in his campaign run and worked to stay true to that promise throughout.

I have watched his work from a distance with Habitat for Humanity and other humanitarian work he has done, but I did not know the extent of his influence. In the tribute below, which is approximately 12 minutes, Jimmy Carter’s grandson talks about the man he was in a very moving eulogy. He describes the importance of people-to-people communications in solving critical issues, like the way he solved the Guinea-worm disease throughout Africa.

When I think about people who inspire me, Jimmy Carter tops the list. He embodies the traits, values and character in people who define a world in which I want to live. I am hopeful in the future we can celebrate more people like Jimmy Carter when they are alive and hold them up as models for modern-day leadership.

If you have a moment, this tribute is worth watching.

Have a great month ahead.