Working in the television industry, you come to understand the connection that viewers make with those they see each day on the air.

But even so, occasionally you'll see that special journalist who goes even further and somehow seems to capture America's heart.

That's what we've all experienced since the passing last week of NBC's Tim Russert.

The shock of the sudden news of his death has only been surpassed by the national outpouring of grief.

Viewers seemed to feel a member of their family had been taken from them.

What made Tim resonate here and around the country was his unwavering sense of self.

Raised in Buffalo, N.Y., he never sought the glamour of television.

He got his law degree, went to work as a political insider and then did something that most can't do.

He made the transition to journalist, putting aside ideology to deliver a non-partisan message.

In doing so he made a difference.

He elevated the level of discourse and debate, as well as the level of political intellect among all of us.

Tim Russert was the caretaker of the longest running show on television -- Meet the Press --.and loved the responsibility it carried.

At 17 years, no one ever held the position of moderator longer.

But why did we all connect with Tim Russert?

We believe it was his "everyman" quality.

He was a man who knew where he was born and was as comfortable with folks in the old neighborhood as he was with the rich and powerful.

Tim Russert: Author, journalist, devout family man. One of us.

We'll miss you.