How Will We Remember Ted Kennedy? 634.3
I never had high regard for Ted Kennedy. Chappaquiddick and a host of other scandals defined him as a man of poor judgment and weak moral fiber.
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So I was surprised at the grandeur of his funeral and the outpouring of praise, respect, and affection lavished on this clearly imperfect man by so many presidents, senators, and foreign dignitaries.
What qualities did they see that I had overlooked or undervalued?
Wall-to-wall media coverage provided plenty of information and insights. Pundits and partisan politicians described him as an immensely likable colleague and considerate friend with a rare ability to work with political adversaries to get things done. They cited his virtues – courage, compassion, tenacity, and devotion to public service – and catalogued the huge social impact of his half century of service.
Friends and family marveled at his ability to continually take on new responsibilities with grace and fortitude as he endured ceaseless tidal waves of personal tragedy. They described a man who always found time to express condolences, attend important events, and visit anyone who needed a kind word or strong shoulder.
We can’t ignore his personal weaknesses in assessing his life, but I found something heroic about his refusal to give up – even on himself. He passionately asserted his right to redeem his life and earn forgiveness by becoming a better man.
In the end, our own legacies won’t be a full list of our faults and virtues either. What will matter is how long we will be remembered, by whom, and for what.
Some will remember Edward Moore Kennedy for his less worthy acts and attributes. I’ve decided to remember him as the good man he became and the better man he was struggling to become.
This is Michael Josephson reminding you that character counts.
In preparing this commentary, I read editorials and an extensive, well-documented bio on Wikipedia to try to understand how and why Senator Kennedy will be remembered. To view this summary and learn more yourself, click here.

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