A Lesson To Follow

Regardless of my politics or his, I still wish to show my respect to Ted Kennedy and his family. Take ones own family, any family and put it in the spotlight, magnify their every move and breath. Would we differ that much from theirs. Don't we all have that scandal, shamed liaisons, drugs and alcohol abuse that we want to keep hidden and dwelt with behind closed doors. Letting the family work, solve and heal. Of course we do. The Kennedy's were no different in that regard. The problem that they faced was, they were a public family. Perhaps the first that our generation followed in both awe and scorn.

They were that public family that held the public's attention in their actions as heroes of war and politicians of high office. Decision makers that have influenced and impacted all of us in some way. They used their wealth, influence and power to help shape a nation. In their rise they stood strong as a family, supported one and another regardless of their successes or failures.

It is a sad day for our nation. I hear the talking heads and have heard both sides of the story. I have read about their triumphs and their failures. I watch a nation, a state and a family grieve. I also feel a deeper loss. The end of a dynasty, four brothers gone. All giving so much for their nation.

I like this photo of three of the brothers. I changed it in the second shot to show that if you take away the big fancy house, you could have found these three on any street corner in any town in America. Just three average brothers hanging out.

My politics and Mr Kennedy's are miles are apart but my respect for him comes from the love that he had for his family. The sense of duty that he showed them. From the young children who loss their fathers to the grieving widows left behind. He was the patriarch of "America's Family". Mr Kennedy's responsibility was done with class, humility and love. He set an example that all of us should have and show in our own families. Just think how better off our nation would be if we all would follow his lead. Good Job Mr. Kennedy.