A Season & Reason for Hope

I was already teary-eyed before I watched Teddy Kennedy's speech and tribute at the Democratic National Convention, but it was still moving to see the last of the great liberals one more time. Ailing Kennedy addresses Democratic convention. One of the best things about the Kennedys is that they are always there when you need them. For friends, family and country. And, as he said, this is a time of great need.

See also, Ted Kennedy's Likely Last Big Hurrah.

It takes someone like Teddy, whose dedication to a better society -- despite his own personal wealth and current medical condition -- to remind us that cynicism can be overcome on occasion. Despite his personal failings (and who among us doesn't have them?), Kennedy has dedicated his life and career to liberal causes. Watching him speak last night, I thought that he was a perfect example of things sometimes happening for a reason. If he had been successful in attaining the Presidency, he would have served his term (or two) and left public life. Instead, his long career in the Senate has resulted in more benefits to this country (as noted in the tribute) than he might otherwise been able to accomplish as President.

Every once in a while, we need to believe. And now is one of those times. As he said:

I have come here tonight to stand with you to change America, to restore its future, to rise to our best ideals, and to elect Barack Obama president of the United States.

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The work begins anew. The hope rises again. And the dream lives on.