(Some of you may not believe this, but I have never voted for a Republican presidential candidate. Ever. I have voted Democrat, but never Republican.)

I think the reason Donne said "each man's death diminishes me," is that he felt himself to be a part of humanity, a part of the bigger picture. When people with whom I am not personally acquainted die, I do feel a human sadness, mostly for the loved ones left behind. If you believe that all things are connected, it is hard not to be diminished just a little when one of the links breaks, regardless of your opinion of that person.

The other side of the coin is, we are augmented by the things that bring us joy, and that's what allows the broken links to heal.