Today, Rep. Louie Gohmert (TX-01) joined the members of the United States Congress and made the following remarks on the House floor in tribute to those killed and injured in the tragic shooting in Tucson, Arizona:
“Gabrielle Giffords is always a bright spot in a rather dull, moody, self-absorbed body called Congress. She is easy to work with no matter on which side of the aisle we happen to be. We all find ourselves being criticized, but few of us have been able to respond with the grace and class with which Gabby has.
Today, we mourn the loss of all of those killed during the evil shooting spree in Tucson. I know we are praying for the victims families _ that somehow, through their devastating loss and heartbreak, they may still find that peace that passes all understanding. For those who have survived the assault, may they find healing in the shadow of the Almighty.
Hearing so much these days about the need for congenial discourse we might look at Gabby Giffords as a living example of how we go about discerning the roadmap to get to the desired decorum. I am sure both sides of the aisle wish the other side worked with others as well as Gabby does. She makes people here in Congress smile just by showing up.
Her flights to and from Washington, DC often had us on the same flight to and from the Dallas/Ft. Worth airport hub. Gabby knows I love chocolate, so when she sees me on her flight, she always lights up and says, “Louie, I was hoping you would be on this flight. I need some chocolate.” Gabby always finds something for which she can look forward.
Let me just say, when I see her again, I will be certain that I have plenty of extra chocolate just for her.
Our prayers remain with her. This is no time for assigning blame to anyone but the gunman. This is a time to seek the positive influences from those who were harmed. This is a time to note and perpetuate the good in THEIR lives so that they live on, whether their hearts continue to beat or not.
This is a time to learn from Gabby who has a heart that both still beats and still inspires. We can learn from her attributes _ and her ability to smile even at those with whom we disagree, as we pray for the opportunity for her smile to regain its vitality so she can go back to spreading her sunshine in places that need it.
May God bless Gabby Giffords and all of those who are suffering because of this heinous attack as only He knows how. May God provide the comfort and peace that only comes from the embrace of His loving arms.”
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