John Kerry and Edward Kennedy were close friends. For almost 25 years Kerry and Kennedy served as colleagues representing the state of Massachusetts.
John Kerry now has impossibly big shoes to fill as he becomes the senior Senator from the state of Massachusetts, but I believe he will continue to fight for a more just & fairer world in the tradition of Kennedy...
Boston –Senator John Kerry today released the following statement on the passing of Senator Edward Kennedy.
"We have known for some time that this day was coming, but nothing makes it easier. We have lost a great light in our lives and our politics, and it will never be the same again. Ted Kennedy was such an extraordinary force, yes for the issues he cared about, but more importantly for the humanity and caring in our politics that is at the center of faith and true public service.
"No words can ever do justice to this irrepressible, larger than life presence who was simply the best -- the best Senator, the best advocate you could ever hope for, the best colleague, and the best person to stand by your side in the toughest of times. He faced the last challenge of his life with the same grace, courage, and determination with which he fought for the causes and principles he held so dear. He taught us how to fight, how to laugh, how to treat each other, and how to turn idealism into action, and in these last fourteen months he taught us much more about how to live life, sailing into the wind one last time. For almost 25 years, I was privileged to serve as his colleague and share his friendship for which I will always be grateful.
"Teresa and I send all our love to Vicki, Teddy Jr., Patrick, Kara and their family, and to the entire Kennedy family for whom Teddy was always a rock at times like this. Massachusetts and our entire nation shares their loss and grieves with them."
Kennedy a follower of Christ- he was loving even in a world full of hate- he shined a light into the world that was more beautiful and deeper than anything hatred could ever comprehend. He illustrated it is possible to have empathy for the suffering and frailty of others and not to be blinded by rigid judgments because compassion- the actuality of compassion is not rigid..
Rest in peace Edward Kennedy and thank you for being a voice for those whose voices are often marginalized or ignored-