My heart and prayers go out to California’s First Lady, her cousin and fellow Californian, Bobby Kennedy, Jr., and the entire Kennedy family as the news of Senator Kennedy’s condition is announced. One of the many amazing things about this family is that, though they are large and geographically spread out, they remain as tightly knit and supportive of one another as any family I have ever witnessed. All of America, regardless of political affiliation, has woven the story of the Kennedy family into their own lives in a special way, and I think that is because of two words: public service.
Like the rest of his family, Senator Kennedy could have done anything with his life, but he chose to champion the people. Whether we agree with his policies or not, there is no question that his motivation to help the poor, the needy, and the disadvantaged were at the heart of his actions and achievements. It’s too easy for naysayers to chide the Senator for his faults and imperfections, but none of us are perfect. Senator Kennedy is human, and we all make mistakes, but the greater lesson of his legacy lies in the modus vivendi that drove him to give voice to those not born to power and wealth. We can’t be reminded enough that he didn’t have to do this; he didn’t have to spend his life in front of the volatile and fickle political firing squads. Yet, he did.
In time of uncertainty about his health and well-being, I look for lessons that transcend politics, and in Senator Kennedy I find a man that was reared in a family of great faith that taught the children and generations to come that faith must be put into action. As I prayed my rosary this morning, I thought about how every homily at every Mass I’ve ever been to underscores the need for us to reach out to those in need…to put legs on our prayers, and let our hands be the hands that bring aid to those in need. I truly believe that Senator Kennedy has worked to embody that same “faith in action” in his own way. I have not agreed with his policies or his ideas on the role of government in these areas on most occasions, but when I look beyond that, and see deeper into his motivation for those policies, I see a great heart.
Many call Senator Kennedy the “Lion of the Senate,” and if that is so, I believe we can all find something pure and good in the heart of the lion. God Bless Senator Kennedy and his family in this trying time.
May 20th, 2008 at 12:00 am
These noble words speak well of you, Jill.
Perhaps we Christians are not as harsh as
some people imagine.
May 20th, 2008 at 12:00 am
Wow, Jill.
For a few moments, you took me to a higher place.
Then I remembered what an key role Ted Kennedy has had in taking away freedom and liberty from everyone in America and it brought me back to Earth.
Like you, I wish him Godspeed for a healthy recovery. No one, including a political adversary, should have to grapple with the tragedy of cancer.
May 20th, 2008 at 12:00 am
Spoken like a strong survivor, Boss.
At times like this, I like to take time to reflect on the things that unite us as Americans…what makes us good – love, hope, charity…
Granted, I tend to default to the “look for the good” perspective in people, and that doesn’t tell the whole story…but it usually tells the best and most inspiring parts of the story. If there are lessons to be learned from anyone’s life, let them be the most uplifting and encouraging.
It’s okay to linger awhile in that “higher place.” That’s where we find the best in ourselves, and in our nation.
May 20th, 2008 at 12:00 am
Jill, remind me again why you’re not representing some lucky constituents (or all of us) in some capacity? You truly are a gem. We need you in service.
May 20th, 2008 at 12:00 am
Hey, Brandon!!! You’re so nice to say that, but more importantly, my best wishes to you and your family! Please give them my best, and tell Kathy we miss her terribly, and hope she is doing well.
Warm wishes,
Jill