eulogy

Of Senator Edward Kennedy (Dead - Mass.), Jesse Jackson is reported to have said:

"I knew (Ted Kennedy) for over 40 years. He was an incredible leader whose effectiveness and consistency in the realms of civil rights and health care made him loved and respected by all."

...except Mary Jo Kopechne.

Senator Tom Carper is reported to have said:

"Before coming to the United States Senate in 2001, like a lot of Americans, I thought of Ted Kennedy as one of the most popular, progressive, passionate, and partisan senators."

...as did Mary Jo Kopechne.

Sen. Arlen Specter is reported to have said:

"Senator Kennedy made historic contributions on civil rights, health care, education, the Judiciary, labor law, immigration, and virtually all facets of life in America. Working with him on the big issues of our era was a real privilege."

...but not for Mary Jo Kopechne.

Pres. Obama is reported to have said:

"Even as he waged a valiant struggle with a mortal illness, I've profited... from his encouragement and wisdom."

...unlike Mary Jo Kopechne.

The Kennedy family is reported to have said:

"We've lost the irreplaceable center of our family and joyous light in our lives, (as did the Kopechne family), but the inspiration of his faith, optimism, and perseverance will live on in our hearts forever. We thank everyone who gave him care and support over this last year, (unlike the profile of cowardice he showed in the Chappaquiddick) and everyone who stood with him for so many years in his tireless march for progress toward justice, fairness and opportunity for all. He loved this country and devoted his life to serving it."

...unlike Mary Jo Kopechne.

I came to bury Ted, not to praise him. The evil that men do lives after them.

---

The Anchoress adds:

Given a grim diagnosis in May of 2008, Kennedy managed, with the help of some of the best care available, to see another Christmas, another spring and even another summer. It’s entirely possible that what Kennedy’s death will really do is bring into stark relief the fact that under Obamacare, this overweight 77 year-old man with liking for the drink would probably have faced treatment rationing and an offer for “physician aid-in-dying”. Kennedy’s death will emphasize yet again that our elected “public servants” enjoy one of the best health insurance plans in the world, while they are trying to force something much less comprehensive (and life-affirming) onto their constituents.