July 16, 2008

Ted Kennedy

He arrived without notice to keep the Republicans from filibustering a Medicare bill -- and his one vote made the difference in forcing a vote on the government healthcare program that is essential to our elderly.

As he walked in a side door to the Senate chambers, cheers and applause slowly grew to a crescendo. The Liberal Lion was back and even brain cancer wasn't going to keep him away, keeping the Medicare program stable.

Watching Ted Kennedy's entrance -- accompanied by his son, Barack Obama, and Chris Dodd -- on video is one of those uplifting moments of triumph and gratitude for a man who has experienced so much personal tragedy, but has never wavered from being a booming voice for the public good.

We can debate the fine points of 2008 campaign strategy, but when you see a moment such as the one that occurred on the Senate floor on July 9, you realize that courage and grace and tenacity can still move a nation and inspire even the coldest of hearts.

The Republicans weren't expecting Kennedy's arrival -- they had counted on his being unable to vote -- but he outfoxed them, and they too couldn't help but join in the thundering welcome for a true Senator for all the nation.

Ted Kennedy, you brought tears to our eyes and renewed inspiration to our hope for the dream of America. You may take the Wings of Justice and wear them as you convalesce around the Cape. They are yours.

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