Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Rest in Peace Ted Kennedy
I found reason for hope in the passion of Obama's words about Senator Kennedy:
I hope Senator Kennedy gave Obama something like the following advice, and that Obama has been listening to it: "Use the office to get things done. Take the measure of where you are and see what you can accomplish. Forget about glory. Don't worry about the anger that people will feel and the criticism that they will level. A lot of it may in fact be warranted -- but there may be no way for you to avoid it. In the morass of Washington, it takes compromise with and appeasement of evil forces to get anything done. This makes people angry, as it should; you may have to take this anger on yourself if you want to use your power to save a few, or a few thousand, human lives. Make the deals you have to and let God and the people who truly know you be your judges."
posted by speakingcorpse : 8/26/2009 07:10:00 AM
Michelle and I were heartbroken to learn this morning of the death of our dear friend, Senator Ted Kennedy.
For five decades, virtually every major piece of legislation to advance the civil rights, health and economic well being of the American people bore his name and resulted from his efforts.
I valued his wise counsel in the Senate, where, regardless of the swirl of events, he always had time for a new colleague. I cherished his confidence and momentous support in my race for the Presidency. And even as he waged a valiant struggle with a mortal illness, I've profited as President from his encouragement and wisdom.
An important chapter in our history has come to an end. Our country has lost a great leader, who picked up the torch of his fallen brothers and became the greatest United States Senator of our time.
And the Kennedy family has lost their patriarch, a tower of strength and support through good times and bad.
Our hearts and prayers go out to them today--to his wonderful wife, Vicki, his children Ted Jr., Patrick and Kara, his grandchildren and his extended family.
I hope Senator Kennedy gave Obama something like the following advice, and that Obama has been listening to it: "Use the office to get things done. Take the measure of where you are and see what you can accomplish. Forget about glory. Don't worry about the anger that people will feel and the criticism that they will level. A lot of it may in fact be warranted -- but there may be no way for you to avoid it. In the morass of Washington, it takes compromise with and appeasement of evil forces to get anything done. This makes people angry, as it should; you may have to take this anger on yourself if you want to use your power to save a few, or a few thousand, human lives. Make the deals you have to and let God and the people who truly know you be your judges."
posted by speakingcorpse : 8/26/2009 07:10:00 AM
