Bush & Company

There's a camaraderie among the former presidents, almost like a fraternity, though unofficial.

On Monday, March 21, 2011, at the Kennedy Center Opera House in Washington, a "Beltway Bash" was held, honoring former president, George H. W. Bush's contribution to volunteerism.

Among guests, participants and performers were former presidents Bush 41 and 43, Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton

In remarks for the occasion, Mr. Clinton said, "All you really want to do is make sure you leave this earth a little bit better off than when you showed up." Of his one-time political rival, George H. W. Bush, he said, "He can do no wrong in my eyes. . .even though he every five years, makes me look like a wimp by continuing to jump out of a plane." He also philosophized about "how much energy we waste fighting with each other over things that don't matter."

The four living former presidents gathered in solidarity for this event.

Perhaps there should be a formal former presidents fraternity.

The old boys club, now down to four,
And long ago, when they were more,
Perhaps have met, comparing notes,
Exchanging humorous anecdotes,

Examining not too closely those
Sins and omissions to expose;
All barbs and rancor put aside,
By time's erosion mollified;
\
And in some dim and distant pub,
May meet that other old boys club.
Hoist high your mugs, historic gents!

Farewell, farewell, past presidents. . .