John,

When I was in grade school, our teacher had a mock election in our class and I was so proud to vote for Jimmy Carter.

He embodied so many of the qualities I hold dear – service, leadership, discipline, grace, kindness, and living your faith more than speaking your faith. But perhaps the value he epitomized most to me was radical love.

One of the greatest road trips of my life was about 5 years ago, driving from Atlanta to Plains, Georgia, with John Lewis to visit with President Carter and Rosalynn and hear President Carter teach Sunday school to people from all over the world from all different faiths.

I recounted my grade school vote, and how his lifelong legacy had influenced me throughout my career.

As always, he accepted it with humility and humor, and then, as if thinking about my coming year or two, encouraged me to run for president "ONLY" he said, "if you run from here" and then he poked gently at my chest, at my heart.

Thank you President Carter for a lifetime of inspiration, and a lifetime of service – and leading with love. May you rest in peace.

Cory