Edward Kennedy ... R.I.P. ... lessons in character

September 21, 9:38 AMRiverside County Progressive ExaminerVictoria Wolf

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As I look forward to my copy of Edward Kennedy's final story, True Compass, I am reminded of his great loss to our nation, while being uplifted by his evolving role as parent, husband, and his remarkable courage in his final days.

My father always reminded me that when I fell, and hurt myself, the first thing to do was get back up .. then we will figure out what to do next.  So when I heard Mr.. Kennedy's son's speak at his funeral, and during the following days, I was consistently moved to tears.  The story his oldest son told of his leg loss, and his father's unfailing support to the top of the hill ... "I can't .. I can't"  cried the son and the father saying ... 'Yes you can, we will do it together, if it takes all day' ... and then the great ride of triumph down the snowy mountain.

Then the statement in support to his son Patrick, who suffered from insecurity brought about by a number of childhood medicial issues  ... 'other's may be smarter, but we will win because we work harder, and are better prepared. (See his statements: www.youtube.com/watch)

There were so many examples of a passionate life, not a perfect life, but a real life into a direction of love of family, love of nation, and a commitment to a Creator of ALL.  Edward Kennedy JR.  said his dad believed in righting wrongs, his own and others ... he believed nothing was impossible, and that there was a job for everyone.  He also said, "there was just no quit, in Dad" .... what an inspiration!

He worked so hard on a health care system that America could be proud of.  His debates were vigorous, but at the end of the day, he gave it a rest ... opponents friends again.  He said Republican's love this country too.  We could learn so much about how to work together to solve problems that affect of us.

'The work goes on ... the dream still lives' ... thank you Edward Kennedy for your lifetime of service. 

Take time to watch Edward Kennedy Jr.'s statements for his father at his funeral: www.youtube.com/watch , and you too will surely be moved toward an attitude that will bring this nation together, working on a dream we can all share as citizens, rather than dividing us apart.