Elizabeth Edwards was one of us.
She blogged; she supported progressive issues with little compromise; she supported gay marriage; she opposed the Iraq war, she fought like hell for a truly progressive single payer health care position and for working people.
Her politics were right on. Those of us who believe we have to stand up and fight for a better world have lost a truly important voice. Take a few moments and listen to the woman who would have been a great Senator:
(Say what you will about John Edwards, but that fighting voice will be missed)
But, more importantly, the world has lost a unique soul.
At one of my first political speaking events, I had the honor of introducing Elizabeth Edwards at a presidential campaign event in 2007. I was nervous, but she was extremely kind and cogent. At the end of the event, she took the time to find my Mom and gave her flowers. Elizabteh didn't need to do it. She had been campaigning non-stop. Her health wasn't good. And neither my Mom nor I could give the campaign much money ... but that human gesture meant a lot to my Mom and I won't forget it.
I spoke with Elizabeth several times, but I wouldn't say that I knew her closely as a person. But I knew her well enough to know she was - at heart - a very good person.
In that spirit, please donate to the Wade Edwards Foundation.
Elizabeth, as you look down from above, rest in peace and thank you. The struggle for justice continues. . . .