Trump Recalls Childhood Experience at Billy Graham Crusade, Lauds Friendship with Franklin Graham, and Attributes Survival to Almighty God
In his acceptance speech at the Republican National Convention (RNC) in Milwaukee, former President Donald Trump took a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminiscing about his childhood experiences at Billy Graham crusades held at Yankee Stadium. He shared a heartfelt story about how his father would take him to see the iconic evangelist, who was known for drawing some of the largest crowds ever seen at the stadium.
Trump described Billy Graham as “a fantastic guy” and a great rally leader, recounting the profound impact Graham had on both him and his father. “My father used to love taking me to see Billy Graham at Yankee Stadium,” Trump said. “He had the biggest rallies you’ve ever seen. He was a good rally guy too, but he’d get up and he was a fantastic guy. My father loved Billy Graham.”
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Transitioning to the present, Trump expressed his deep appreciation for his friendship with Franklin Graham, Billy Graham’s son, who has followed in his father’s footsteps as a prominent Christian leader. Trump highlighted the respect he holds for Franklin, revealing a personal note he received from him. “Franklin Graham is an outstanding man,” Trump stated. “He wrote me a note recently. I have a lot of respect for him.”
Franklin’s Personal Note
In the note, Franklin Graham praised Trump’s storytelling abilities but offered a piece of advice: to refrain from using foul language during his speeches. Trump’s recounting of the interaction was met with a mix of humor and sincerity. “Sir, I love your storytelling; I think it’s great in front of these big rallies, but sir, please do me one favor. It won’t make any difference – please don’t use any foul language,” Franklin wrote. Trump admitted, “I was a little embarrassed. He said it won’t make any difference. Actually, it does. The story is not quite as good, but I’ve been very good.”
Despite the challenge, Trump acknowledged his efforts to heed Franklin Graham’s advice, emphasizing his determination to improve. “I love Franklin Graham. I think Franklin’s been fantastic, and I’m trying. I’m working so hard to adhere to his note to me. I’m working hard on it, Franklin.”
I stand before you in this arena only by the grace of Almighty God.
Donald Trump
Reflecting on recent events, Trump underscored the importance of valuing every moment we have on Earth. “If the events of last Saturday make anything clear, it is that every single moment we have on Earth is a gift from God,” he said. “We have to make the most of every day for the people and for the country that we love.”
‘By the Grace of Almighty God’
In a poignant moment of his speech, Trump shared a dramatic account of surviving the assassination attempt, attributing his survival to divine intervention. “I’m not supposed to be here tonight,” Trump began. “I stand before you in this arena only by the grace of Almighty God.”
Trump recounted the tense and chaotic scene, describing how the crowd thought he was dead. “When I rose, surrounded by Secret Service, the crowd was confused because they thought I was dead and there was great, great sorrow. I could see that on their faces as I looked out. They didn’t know I was looking out; they thought it was over.”
In a bid to reassure his supporters, Trump raised his right arm and began shouting, “Fight, fight, fight.” He recalled, “Once my clenched fist went up and it was high into the air, you’ve all seen that, the crowd realized I was okay and roared with pride for our country like no crowd I have ever heard before. Never heard anything like that.”
Unforgettable Support
For Trump, the support from his audience was unforgettable. “For the rest of my life, I will be grateful for the love shown by that giant audience of patriots that stood bravely on that fateful evening in Pennsylvania,” he said. He also noted that normally is mass hysteria at a shooting, but all the patriots at the rally remained calm and seated, waiting to see if President Trump was alive.
Trump concluded by reinforcing the enduring nature of the movement he leads, stating, “The movement has never been about me. It has always been about you. It’s your movement. It’s the biggest movement in the history of our country by far. It can’t be stopped. It has always been about the hardworking, patriotic citizens of America.”
The speech, marked by personal anecdotes, a powerful testimony of survival, and a strong message of faith, highlighted Trump’s ongoing commitment to his supporters.
