It's taken me a few days to get over my genuine heartbreak over Senator Kerry's election loss. I have to admit I was shocked to realize that so many of my fellow Americans were persuaded to vote for Mr. Bush, especially after seeing that first presidential debate.
Now that I've had a chance to let it sink in, I have something I'd like to say to Senator Kerry and to all of you.
Fired-up, Sen Kerry returns to Senate
Progress Still Has a Friend in John Kerry
When I think of John Kerry, I think of Atticus Finch in Harper Lee's "To Kill A Mockingbird". In an atmosphere of social divisiveness, fear and hatred, perhaps John didn't have a presidential win in the cards, but he won't let it stop him from being the man of integrity that he has always been.
In the film version, with Gregory Peck, there is a poignant courtroom scene where Atticus Finch seems very much alone in the wake of his heart-wrenching loss in the downstairs chamber of the courtroom, but above him, there are seats still filled upstairs and every person stands in homage while Atticus passes below.
I stand with all who supported Mr. Kerry and salute him for what he tried to do, and what we know he could have done for America. I'm so very glad he'll be fighting for us in the Senate. There's a lot he has learned from this experience and it will make him the most valuable Senator we could have on realistic democracy's side.
Thank you, Senator Kerry.
Godspeed.