I have always been a supporter of Ted Kennedy.  I’m from New England, Irish, liberal and out-spoken – he fit.  What I didn’t know was how great the man was and I believe this was a direct result of not only the tragedies that stuck his family but of his own failings. 

 Instead of turning inward, Kennedy responded to tragedy after tragedy with love, joy and light.  I was amazed at how well Kennedy treated his naysayers.  Frankly, I was inspired to be more compassionate, and to suffer the slings and arrows with just a bit more humor.

 I watched pretty much the entire tribute – it truly was a perfect Irish wake/funeral/burial.  Tears, tall tales and God.  From John Culver’s sailing adventure with Ted that had me falling off the sofa laughing so hard to the story of Kennedy spreading dirt over a grave in Israel.  I was completely and utterly moved by this man, his life, his faith, his good works and the love he held for his family, friends and the least among us. 

 Perfectly, my Dad called on Saturday late to review the services.  I knew he would be watching – just like me.  For as Chris Dodd so honestly spoke – Irish love the funerals.  We discussed the letter to the pope – both of us noted how Kennedy acknowledged his imperfect life, but through his faith and work he tried to right his path.

 Our conversation meandered to our own family, and my father, for the first time, copped to his own short-comings when he and my Mom were married.  Sure he had said he wasn’t perfect, but he really acknowledged how bad he was and how ashamed he was of that time.  He can’t look back and I agree. 

 I am grateful for his acknowledgment of the past, but I believe in moving forward.  I believe it is the energy that you put into each of your present moments that drives your life today.  For each of us will fall off the path, that is given.  It is how we choose to continue after the fall that builds the character of person. 

 May flights of angels carry you home Ted Kennedy, bless you.