The entire political world is shocked today by the untimely death of broadcast icon Tim Russert, host of “Meet the Press” and chief of NBC News’ Washington bureau.

Last year, Russert addressed graduates at Washington University, where the man who wrote two best-selling books on paternal wisdom challenged them to match the accomplishments of the “greatest generation.”

Remember, your grandparents and parents, who defended this country, who built this country, who brought you into this world, and a chance to live the American dream. Will your generation do as much for your children? You know you must. Every generation is tested and given the opportunity to be the greatest generation.

And so, too, with the Washington University graduates of 2007. You were born, and you were educated to be players in this extraordinary blessing called life. But please do the world one small favor. Remember the people struggling alongside you and below you; the people who haven’t had the same opportunity, the same blessings, the same Washington University education.

The best commencement I ever heard was all of 16 words, ‘No exercise is better for the human heart than reaching down to lift up another person.’ That is your charge. That is your challenge. That is what I believe it means to be a member of the class of 2007, of this wonderful place called Washington University.

He concluded his remarks with his trademark brand of wonkish wit.

“For the good of all of us, please build a future we can be proud of,” he said. “You can do it, but please get busy. You only have 2,300 weeks before you’ll be eligible for Social Security.”