Friends, as you know, our country suffered the loss of a great American, civil rights hero and my colleague, Congressman John Lewis.

John Lewis lived his life in pursuit of justice. In the face of violence and hatred, he remained resolute and committed to peaceful action in his demands for a better nation. By putting his body on the line, whether on Bloody Sunday in Selma or sitting in for justice in the halls of Congress, John Lewis lived his values -- and our country’s values -- unceasingly.

Often described as the “Conscience of Congress,” Congressman Lewis always reminded us of the importance of the fight for equality. As a member of the 116th Congress, I will always have the profound privilege of getting to know Mr. Lewis and having the opportunity to serve with him. I cannot tell you how much I will miss his kindness, his leadership and his willingness to spend time with me. He showed me what a dedicated civil servant looks like, and he will always be one of my greatest personal heroes.

Reflecting on his life and shared passage of time with Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King Jr., he passed down those lessons of progress and justice through an uncanny ability to connect with and love all people. Without John Lewis, our Congress will never be the same. We will hear his words and feel his spirit ringing through the halls of the building and we will continue to honor his life’s work as he reminded us:

“Do not get lost in a sea of despair. Be hopeful, be optimistic. Our struggle is not the struggle of a day, a week, a month, or a year, it is the struggle of a lifetime.” -- John Lewis

Rest in Power, Mr. Lewis.

Haley Stevens