President Bush is referred to as the Comforter in Chief in an article in the International Herald Tribune: ‘“Since the day in September 2001 when he stood on a charred fire truck with a bullhorn in the smoldering ruins of the World Trade Center, much has been made of Bush's role as comforter in chief. He has consoled victims of floods, wildfires and tornadoes. But in his family meetings, the comforting works both ways.”’

God is evoked as well: ‘God is a frequent topic. Robert Lehmiller, also of Salt Lake City, says the president brought religion into the conversation, telling him, "If you truly believe the Scriptures, you will see your son again."’

Recently I declared that I would not participate in literary events in the Netherlands anymore. Now I can add: If the booksellers and organizers of literary awards truly believe the Scriptures they will see me again. If they don’t see me their believe was not deep enough.