Also, in doing so much to defeat the Soviet Union and communism, might one say that he saved the world? In all seriousness, I don't think that would be hyperbole.

Indeed.

I have been a left-wing liberal all of my life; but I respected Reagan, and his passing saddens me. I disagreed with him on almost every issue, but I never felt that he was dishonest. He believed in what he was trying to accomplish, and he responded to his critics without insulting them--a skill that few politicians on either side of the aisle can lay claim to today. Americans in general and the Republicans in particular can be justifiably proud of him. By disagreeing without disrespecting, he was, I think, a true conservative in the same way that I try to be a true liberal. His effect on America will linger for many years. I hope his political style will too.