Recently we have learned of many public figures who've died from illness, accident or suicide. Some names are Kate Spade, Philip Roth and Anthony Bourdain. There are countless other actors, musicians and sports stars. The most recent notable death was Dr. Charles Krauthammer at the age of 68. Whether you agreed with his political opinions or not one must honor his gifts as a political writer and orator for he used his wisdom, intellect, wit, openness and courage to convey his position.

His doctors informed him that he had just weeks to live after a year of treatment following cancer surgery. And on June 8, two weeks before he died, he shared publicly, "I have been uncharacteristically silent these past ten months. I had thought that silence would soon be coming to an end, but I'm afraid I must tell you now that fate has decided on a different course for me... I leave this life with no regrets. It was a wonderful life - full and complete with the great loves and great endeavors that make it worth living. I am sad to leave with the knowledge that I have lived the life I intended." He thanked his doctors and caregivers, his dear friends who "have given me a lifetime of memories and whose support has sustained me through these difficult months" his colleagues, his readers and viewers. He added, "I believe that the pursuit of truth and right ideas through honest debate is a noble undertaking. I am grateful to have played a small role in the conversations that have helped guide this extraordinary nation's destiny."

There are many lessons to be learned from Charles Krauthammer.

What's your take away from his life, his legacy and his lessons?

-Harriet