farewell to an underrated statesman

A lot of what we knew about Ted Kennedy was given to us through the tabloid news media. Chappaquidick, alcoholism, womanizing — these were just a few of the demons that he fought throughout his life and career. To many conservatives, he was not exactly beloved. But if you have a disability, are a minority, or earn a low wage, you can thank Teddy for taking up your cause for a better life. I choose to remember him as someone who spent his life devoted to helping those whose voices are not always heard. He may have not had the same mythical stature as his brothers John and Bobby, but he managed to accomplish a lot more than they could in their too-short lives.

~ by philliefan on August 30, 2009.