The story of Ronald Reagan reads like a Hollywood movie script, but in this case, it is a true life story of an exceptional individual who became this nation’s 40th president.

His death Saturday was not unexpected but nevertheless saddened millions of Americans and others around the world and caused them to realize the treasure that had been lost.

Nation mourns Reagan’s passing Reagan touched hearts of those with ties to city Editorial: The great communicator Highlights from Reagan’s presidency Reagan enjoyed diverse film career On the street: What will Ronald Reagan’s mark on history be?

Few presidents have had the ability to inspire their fellow Americans as did Reagan. He gave them hope; he was indeed a great communicator; he always portrayed optimism; he could be tough and decisive when necessary, but did not hold grudges or engage in bitter politics; he had supreme confidence in America and its people; he helped make Americans proud of their country and to shed any thoughts of a nationwide malaise; he displayed kindness and decency on numerous occasions; he was a gentleman in his personal behavior; and he was a dreamer and visionary, believing America and its citizens could achieve any worthy goal they might set.

A converted Democrat, the leader of a Hollywood union, a two-time governor of California and a two-term U.S. president, he confounded those who tried to sell him short, or as a Hollywood lightweight. His accomplishments far exceeded what many had expected.

Edmund Morris, one of this nation’s most celebrated writers and a Reagan biographer, said Reagan was one of the greatest presidents in the nation’s history. Morris said it was too soon to measure Reagan in relation to all former presidents but claimed Reagan was the most outstanding of the past century, certainly since Harry Truman. Morris said of Reagan, “He changed so many things for the better.”

We learn Reagan was a man of great faith but was hesitant to have the American public see this side of his persona. As many have stressed, he was a man of strong convictions and truly made a major, lasting and positive impact on the lives of millions upon millions around the world.

He talked about the “golden years” of America, a time the “American Revolution was reborn.” He was a great writer as well as a great speaker, and his popularity with the public when he left office was the highest of any U.S. president since Roosevelt.

The manner in which Reagan carried out the responsibilities of the office of president should serve as a guide for all politicians. He was masterful in how he connected with the public; he was able to work constructively with members of Congress; he always saw and defined the bright, positive side of issues rather than dwell on the negative; and, he could have strong differences with political or government leaders but not be mean, bitter or vindictive.

America and the world have lost a great leader who is likely to grow in stature and appreciation in the coming years.