National Review founder William F. Buckley Jr.

Actually, what’s $20,293.84? We’ll admit: It’s not chump change. Nope, 20 Grand would be the potential kindness of a couple of hundred National Review supporters who believe that NR is involved in critical work, is an essential voice, and that combined contributions — from $5 to $500 — totaling that amount will get NR over the finish line in this short-term webathon (ending Sunday) seeking to raise $125,000. As of this moment, it has been the recipient of $104,706.16 from 1,216 kindly souls.

These are rough times to ask for help (an understatement), and this former altar boy feels a tad squeamish about asking for such on Good Friday, but we hope some encouraging words from other NR readers might strike you — those who have yet to give but who have considered such; well-intended but simply have not gotten around to such — as meaningful and motivational. Hear now from the selfless friends:

Kathleen sends 30 of the sweetest dollars ever directed this way: “I love your writers; they are all wonderful. I have been reading your magazine since my sophomore year of college. I am now 72 and still reading. It helps me to bear living in a world without William Buckley. God bless you all and many thanks from me. I only wish I could give more.” I only wish I could hug you Kathleen! Thanks!

John makes good with $25 and it comes appended to really cool thoughts: “A world without National Review is unthinkable, and it is way past time for me to finally do something besides just read your content. I saw WFB speak at my college (Auburn University) in 1990, and felt guilty pleasure at the way he responded to a question from my poli-sci professor when the latter expected to stump him. I only wish I could remember what that question was! Anyway, I wish this donation was larger but at this particular moment it is what life allows. Other than the money I always put in the collection plate at church, this is the first time I have donated to anything just for the sake of it, and it feels good!” Feels good on this end, too, John. Thanks.

Jim finds $200 and takes us on a make-good trip down memory lane: “Never have gotten used to the new name for the Kerry Spot, but many years of reading requires at least some contribution. Keep up the good work.” This puts a smile on all faces, one a little wider on Jim Geraghty’s. Thanks so much.

Jonathan sends $2,000 — yes, TWO THOUSAND — and a high-five to boot: “Thank you — greatly appreciate what you do.” Likewise! Hot diggity dog ziggity boom! Thank you.

Kathy spots NR a C Note and gushes about the NR Universe: “I don’t remember how I got my first copy of National Review. That was in the mid-Eighties. I always went straight to Misanthrope Corner which I could never dare to read in public as I would usually laugh out loud. Still miss her [and] pray that she’s in heaven. I never got to meet Bill — thought I was about to once, but it was Reid. I still about fainted. Still a fan of the impossibly fantastic NR.” Wow, I love this, and Florence would have loved you, in her curmudgeon way of course. Me, not curmudgeonly. Thanks so much. (Oh yeah: Reid was a delight!)

Ryan also finds $100 for the tip jar, and he explains his heartfelt reasons for such: “Gang, I can’t thank you enough for providing a level-headed assessment of the issues of our times. I wish you the very best in raising the funds you need, and please continue to pay Kevin W. whatever he is demanding (feel free to earmark my payment accordingly). Many of us are taking stock more often these days, and although gratitude is all I can give, it’s precious too, and I trust this modest contribution will be received in the spirit it was given.” You rock, Ryan.

Cesar sends $55.16 and his story makes us laugh and cry: “Hey guys, I was unemployed/underemployed for about three years and only got fully employed again about a year ago. It was rough going and I’m only now making inroads on the debts I acquired during that period. During that time, reading NR was one of the few consistent daily pleasures I could always look forward to. My finances are still not all there yet, but for all the great times you guys have given me over the years I figured I could spare $50. Then I looked at my bank account and saw I could give an extra $5.16 and bring my account to an even number. Hope you don’t mind me using you to square up my accounts. Thanks again for always being there.” Cesar, you win! Love you.

Friends, we wish all who celebrate Passover, all who embrace Lent, which ends Saturday night for many (my Orthodox brothers and sisters are next week), the incalculable blessings the Creator bestows in these days. We wish all who have stood by us, now and in years past, happiness and certainty in the knowledge that we here at NR keenly appreciate your many kindnesses, as did our founder (Reid’s big brother!). We encourage those who do indeed wish to help NR to please contribute to our webathon here. Should you rather send a check, do make it payable to “National Review” and mail it to National Review, ATTN: Spring 2020 Webathon, 19 West 44th Street, Suite 1701, New York, N.Y., 10036. You have our sincere thanks and a partnership in our mission of standing athwart history.