I am 60 years old; yet, I can still remember the crazy 70's when I was a young adult, a new community social worker, full of passion and belief in change. I had friends who worked for Ted Kennedy, and they all spoke about working 15-16 hours/day, simply because they believed in his causes and him as a person. They all reported that he wanted every detail of the research and his mind for these details and sources was impeccable.
I worked for elderly persons in the Boston community. When Senator Kennedy came to town, thousands of elderly people were bussed to Boston to speak to Senator Kennedy about their concerns and needs. The hundreds of buses that clogged Beacon Hill were a testament to this man's charisma and following.
When I took my bus load of "elderly" to the building, I was able to watch these proceedings. Senator Kennedy would stand in the front with a microphone while people asked him questions. He answered each question respectfully. Periodically, he would ask, "Do you trust me? If you do not, then I will quit this job, because without your trust, I am nothing." These amazing people stood cheering, clapping and weeping.
Despite the fact that his brothers had both been killed, he stood in front of this huge crowd all alone. It was amazing.
Teddie, rest in peace, and hopefully enough of us still believe in your causes. Thank you for the many Kennedy Bills that have made the lives of millions better. What will we do without your tremendous dedication.
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