Remembering Ted Kennedy
You don’t have to be an ultra liberal democrat to appreciate the passion and drive of Ted Kennedy.
That opening line seems odd and defensive to me, but is written because many of my readers are conservative republicans who view the Kennedy’s as arch nemeses, polar opposite of the “right” world view. For many on the right there is no way for me to write about Kennedy without stirring up bad feelings, even writing about his death.
It is sort of like writing about the Kings of Israel; when you mention them (and ALL of them had deep flaws although many reigned for decades) you have to give them some honor but be honest, too. Think of David; fabulous leader, military genius, political mastermind, rapist and murderer, ancestor of Jesus.
So regardless of political world view and orientation one must acknowledge the life and death of Ted Kennedy with honor (a life dedicate to public service) and honesty, (Chappaquiddick readily comes to mind).
The passion and drive of Ted Kennedy was exemplar. When he spoke he spoke with conviction from the heart. He was riveting, relentless, convincing. In a word, he was powerful. More than that, he was influential. His endorsement was often the difference between success and failure. He was a man to be reckoned with.
This is what inspires me about him. He was a doer, upfront, a fighter, a policy maker, a driving force, a leader. All these attributes are characteristics for every person, especially Christians, to aspire to. But not just Christians, every person who wants to be successful in business, anyone who wants to make a difference in the world can learn a lesson from Kennedy’s life.
When ever I officiate a funeral I try to leave the congregation with lessons from the deceased’s life. Death has a way of speaking to the heart. As you think about the Kennedys today, praying for this grieving family, may the lessons of Ted Kennedy’s life speak to you and challenge you to live your life to the fullest, with passion, drive, and influential service.
I love you – Bryan Martin
