Charlie Kirk, a Friend to Many, a Friend to My Family

Charlie Kirk was the real deal – a man of character who loved God, his family, and this country. My family was blessed to know him and to call him a friend.

I first met Charlie at the Western Conservative Summit, a Colorado-based conference my husband, Jeff, hosted for many years. At the time, Charlie had recently founded Turning Point USA and was becoming well known for his ability to confront bad ideas and thoughtfully talk about conservatism with young people on college campuses.

Jeff and Charlie hit it off. Both passionate about their faith, convictional about truth-telling and brave in the face of opposition.

They shared a bond as men of God who felt called to make a difference in this world for Christ’s Kingdom and were motivated by their love for America.

Over the years, Charlie came back to speak many times at the Western Conservative Summit. Our paths crossed repeatedly at conservative gatherings, faith-based events, political activities, fundraisers and even a football game with the family.

What I remember most about Charlie was his character. He was driven by a calling on his life. He knew it. We all did. He knew the success of his mission was based on his ability to be a man of character. He didn’t get distracted from that call.

I also remember being struck by his humility. Whether he was getting ready to speak on stage, rushing off to another event, or just hanging out, he took the time to put other people first.

On one occasion, when Charlie was in town, my husband and teenage son met him at a mutual friend’s house to watch college football. Charlie made time for people. Rich or poor. Young or old. Powerful or powerless. People mattered to him.

In recent years, it’s been a blessing to watch Charlie advocate for faith, marriage, family and children. He didn’t just preach this lifestyle, he lived it – authentically.

Charlie had a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. He and my husband would discuss Scripture. He knew God was at work redeeming our sinful world, and he was called to serve in that mission.

He was also an outspoken supporter of marriage and family. Charlie was a faithful husband and a committed father. He knew personally the blessing of having his own nuclear family. Every chance he got, he encouraged the next generation to get married and have kids because he wanted other Americans to know that blessing.

The thing that inspires me most about Charlie was his courageous commitment to live his life with Christian conviction and purpose. He was not controlled by fear. He was guided by the Holy Spirit to engage a lost culture with truth – and he was faithful to that call.

Charlie’s life is a reminder to us all that those whom God calls, He equips. May we walk in faith, like Charlie, believing that the one who called us is with us and is greater than he who is in the world.

Charlie was a hero. I’ll be forever grateful for his impact on our country and on my family.  

Image credit: Jeff Hunt /Western Conservative Summit