Ron Fournier, editorial director for The National Journal, has covered the careers of numerous politicians, including the last several presidents. President George W. Bush left quite an impression on him. According to Fournier, President Bush always remembered names of his staff's family. The president also insisted that hard work, even at the White House, should never be an excuse to let family life suffer.

In the summer of 1999, Fournier had scheduled an exclusive interview with then-Governor George W. Bush. Bush called Fournier at the appointed time, but interrupted the reporter in the middle of the first question.

"What's all that noise in the background, Fournier?" he asked.

"I'm at the pool with my kids, governor."

Governor Bush replied, "Then what are you doing answering your phone?" They quickly ended the interview.

Possible Preaching Angles: (1) Fatherhood; Parenting; Family; (2) The Fatherhood of God—This story also can show the way God the Father is interested in us as individuals.