SB has the BIG SADS today. I just now heard that everybody's uncle, Ted Kennedy, died. He and I were in agreement on nearly every political issue, and I will really miss his calm reasonable voice and steadfastness.A few days after his brain surgery, I read that some of the Democrats in congress advised Ted's beloved wife, Vicky, that they really needed Ted's presence in the Senate in order to break a tie vote on an important issue (Medicaid). I think it says a lot that Ted made the great effort to show up and do what he felt was his duty, despite the fact that Vicky didn't want him to go. Ted Kennedy was made of stern and solid stuff. If I was Ted, I probably would have just coasted on the Kennedy name, but Ted worked hard for most of his life.
I remember both Bob Geldof and Bono marveling at Ted's knowledge of Africa's plight. They said he just rolled off facts and figures. He had totally done his homework.
I think one of the most important things that Ted did was to be a surrogate father to his many nieces and nephews. By all accounts, he was well loved and respected by the children of Bobby and JFK, as well as his own kids.
God speed and God bless, Ted. You will be missed.
[If you have anything bad to say about Ted, fuck you. Your comments are not welcome here.]
