The Old Priest

The old priest lay dying in the hospital.  For years he had faithfully served the people of the nation’s capital.  He motioned for his nurse to come near.

“Yes, Father?” said the nurse.

“I would really like to see President Bush and Vice President Cheney before I die.” whispered the priest.

“I’ll see what I can do, Father” replied the nurse.

The nurse sent the request to the White House and waited for a response.  Soon the word arrived.  Bush and Cheney would be delighted to visit the priest.

As they went to the hospital, Bush commented to Cheney, “I don’t know why the old priest wants to see us, but it will certainly help our images.”

Cheney couldn’t help but agree.

When they arrived at the priest’s room, the priest took Bush’s hand in his right hand and Cheney’s hand in his left.  There was silence and a look of serenity on the old priest’s face.

Finally President Bush spoke.  “Father, of all the people you could have chosen, why did you choose us to be with you as you near the end?”

The old priest slowly replied “I have always tried to pattern my life after our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”

“Amen” said Bush.

“Amen” said Cheney.

The old priest continued…”He died between two lying thieves.  I would like to do the same.”