Class act: President George H.W. Bush shows he is a man to be admired

He is in his 80s -- almost 90 -- and wheelchair-bound most of the time.

But when the child of a member of his security detail was diagnosed with cancer, former President George Bush decided to show his support.

So, he shaved his head, just like everyone else who rallied around the youngster and his family.

He did not have to -- a picture with the tyke and a heartfelt expression of support would have been enough.

But this former president felt he was not too good to be part of what was a touching show of faith and support for a family going through one of the worst bits of news you can hear.

There are many who have criticized the Bush family over the years.

But it is evident in the actions of the patriarch that this is a group of people who understand that leading sometimes means following -- and that principles and what is right matter.

Their hearts are pretty big, too.

And that is an example Washington should certainly use more of right about now.

Published in Editorials on July 26, 2013 10:53 AM