Letters for the Future (2/2) "Filling Leo's Shoes"
Jed had decided that though Josh had found his balance well the last few weeks, Inauguration may prove a little more than he could handle on his own without Leo. So, he sat at what would soon be Josh's desk and began to write.
Dear Josh,
Until the last few days, I never realized just how much Leo, and then CJ, kept off of my desk. I never understood just how much of the "little" stuff they handled, so that I could take care of the important things. Just knowing that, I know now that there were so many other things they did for me that I remain unaware of.
I know you wondered why Leo didn't suggest your name after his first heart attack. Initially, I didn't know why. But then, I asked Leo. He told me that I needed someone that would stay until the end of the administration, and that you would be leaving soon to find a candidate to continue what we had started. I was always amazed at just how much Leo saw before the rest of us did.
He loved you so much Josh. He'd be thrilled that you put Matthew Santos into office. While he was on the campaign trail with you, I heard from him often, and he was so proud of what you were doing. He wouldn't want you to feel guilty for convincing him to join the ticket. I know others have told you this, but no one ever convinced Leo to do something he didn't want to do.
You've been given a wonderful gift in Donna. Many of us often wondered why the two of you couldn't see what was right in front of you. But now that you have, treasure it. When I married Abbey, she helped me become a better man, and gave me concrete things to fight for. Donna can do that for you, if you let her. You two have something special; don't ever let her go.
I know you were counting on Leo to help you settle into your new role, but Josh, even though Leo's not here, you can handle the role of Chief of Staff. It won't be easy, but nothing worth doing is. You've brought together an excellent team, with a mix of new faces and old ones. Remember, Josh, that you can't do it all. You're not superman. You have so many people willing to help you. Don't be afraid to let them.
Even though Abbey and I will be leaving Washington for the Manchester house, don't be a stranger. That goes for your fiancée too. I sincerely hope we'll get an invite when you decide to tie the knot. You and Donna will always be welcome. Don't be afraid to call if you need advice, or simply someone to talk to. We almost lost you all those years ago, first in May and then in December. Please Josh, take care of yourself. You have so much you can still do with your life. I don't think we could deal with losing you anytime soon.
I know that you'll try to fill Leo's shoes. You'll try to be for Matt what Leo was for me. You don't need to fill Leo's shoes, Josh. Fill your own instead.
Jed Bartlet
Jed folded the letter and sealed it in the envelope he had. On the front, he wrote "Joshua Lyman." Instead of placing it in a drawer to find, he laid it on the desk so that Josh wouldn't miss it.
Jed looked around the office of the Chief of Staff, thinking about all that had gone on there in the previous eight years. He thought about all the Chief of Staff did for the President of the United States. There was a time, long ago, where he wondered if Josh would be up to the job should something have happened to Leo. But much had happened since then, and Jed knew Josh ultimately would handle the job. He might have a few rough patches in the beginning as he tried to fill Leo's shoes, but in the end he would be okay.