You cast a long shadow

The first thing one noticed was how short and petite she was; how well coiffured her hair was; and how she carried herself, her bag, and even her shoes with an air of uncomplicated, self-assured ease. Simultaneously the opposite of diffidence and vanity, remarkably contained in and exuded from that smallish figure.

My only encounter with Cokie Roberts was when we shared an airport security line, separated by a dozen other travelers. As the serpentine queue of humanity wound itself around the retractable barriers, I was able to observe her a few times. We didn't make eye contact – I was too conscious of not appearing to stare, and she probably too accustomed to being noticed and therefore to ignoring it.

It was long enough ago that I have forgotten the airport and even the year when it happened. I'm rather sure that it was while she was still hosting This Week on ABC. I'm equally sure of my regret at not having my copy of We are our Mothers' Daughters with me when I saw her; as if having it would have magically imbued me with impudent courage to rush at her through the barriers and ask for her signature! Considering that all travelers had their shoes off, it narrows it down to 2001 or 2002. Recalling my air-travels during that period, it was likely at one of Newark, LaGuardia, or JFK airports.

She inspired generations of listeners, viewers, and readers through her nuanced yet uncomplicated analysis of politics. She made us see the possibility of good, virtuous politicking. It came naturally (one may even say genetically) to her; however she made the rest of us believe that politics was not only important, but also a worthy, even noble pursuit.

I distrust some politicians all the time and all politicians some of the time. The fact that I don't distrust all politicians all the time is due in no small part to that petite, self-assured journalistic daughter of career politicians.

Requiescat in pace, Cokie Roberts. You are already missed.