Strong, Brave and Consistent: Edward Kennedy

Despite brain cancer and a weaking body the 76 year old democratic icon excited the delegates in Denver by urging them to unite behind Presidential Candidate, Barack Obama so that "[we] can rise to our best ideals." Senator Kennedy, the last of the great Kennedy brothers that transformed 20th century politics illustrated the flair, savy, and dignity that made the Kennedy's one of the most powerful families in the world.

The 20,000 audience realized that they had witnessed a special moment and perhaps the last great presentation of Senator Kennedy's colorful career. In fact, listening to the elder statesmen one could not help but reflect on his brothers, President John Kennedy and Senator Robert Kennedy who ran for the Party's nomination in 1968. That is, both brothers, like Edward, carried a special swagger of Americanism that illustrated their soulful belief that Americans will always secure and carry the torch of liberty that defines the special nature and destiny of the United States of America.

What we saw Monday night was the passing of the torch to another generation and group of leaders. John Kennedy, the first Catholic to be elected as America's president, now--through his brother Edward, has endorsed Barack Obama, who npossibly may become the nation's first African-American president. Perhaps, it is not an accident that many see Senator Obama as the second coming of John Kennedy and Michelle as the new Jackie. If so, we may be witnessing a progressive rebirth of optimism and growth.

On a final note, if you're a supporter of John McCain, don't worry. Kennedy's rival--Richard Nixon came back to win the presidency and to ursher in a new wave of economic prosperity, international strength, and American pride. This too--may be the case of John McCain. Nonetheless, the early evening of Monday belong to Edward Kennedy--a symbol of strength, bravery and consistency; a Kennedy.