Reagan would not give in, and we left there with nothing. Everyone on the Air Force One was very discouraged, knowing the press would label the trip a failure. Then here came the President strolling through the cabin, smiling and telling jokes. He also said the end of the Soviet empire was coming, and that Communism was about to crumble. He was absolutely right.
Patience is a quality more common to older men, and so is faith.
Reagan's steadfast belief in God was a favorite subject on his rides with Barletta. He felt very blessed. This is where I'll worship from now on,' he said. In the evenings, Mrs. Reagan would ring the big black bell on the porch, signaling it was time for dinner. The President was a man of simple culinary tastes and usually asked for a bowl of macaroni and cheese.