Edward Moore "Ted" Kennedy (February 22, 1932 – August 25, 2009) died as a consequence of a brain tumor he has been battling for some time. Detailed facts of his life, particulars about his family and his professional value as a United States Senator are being reported by more eloquent writers than I. Historians will report on this man whose actions had a significant positive impact on others lives. The following ITN YouTube video provides funeral plans to date.
I am most impressed with actions resulting from his dedication to championing the rights of ordinary citizens and especially those of the least among us. Our country, our governmental and political processes will be sadly lacking without his contributions. He has been a unique conciliatory force able to meld opposite views and ideas about controversial issues into meaningful results affecting us all.
One of his most championed goals has been to bring health care to every American. I wish he had been able to shepherd a plan through our legislative process. He expended his final energies toward that end despite his declining health. A fitting tribute would be formulation and passage of such legislation. I hope our legislative leaders can find the courage to act in a bi-partisan effort enacting such a bill our President can sign.
The goal of health care for all is a moral imperative to which everyone who truly cares about human rights should aspire. We need health care reform now.
Thank you, Sen. Edward Kennedy. You will be missed.
Thank you for posting the video. And thank you for such a beautifully written tribute to Teddy.
ReplyDeleteA lovely tribute, my dear. He will be missed by so many--especially ALL the thousands upon thousands of people who benefited from his strong voice in the Senate. He truly was a Lion---with not just a Roar--But he was a fighter for ALL those who were not able to fight for themselves....As I heard someone say today.."He had Teeth, and he used them when he had to...He also had a HUGE Heart! Bless Him On His Journey.
ReplyDelete