I, like many others, have had a slight obsession with the Kennedys.  The Kennedy Family, for longer than I’ve been alive, has been a cornerstone in American politics and popular culture.

My obsession started years ago, and developed as I tried to understand how so many fighters for the common good could spring from such an unlikely, rich, upper echelon family.  I couldn’t understand how or what has driven this family to champion social problems. Not only the policies and programs that John, Robert, and Ted fought for in political arenas and the non-profits, foundations and other charitable work that has been accomplished by Eunice, Caroline, and Maria, they amaze me.

Granted, the Kennedys, like the rest of us, have feet of clay, but in terms of political power and change, I cannot think of any other family who has been more influential.

I’ve spent a good part of the morning reading the obituary and various other articles about Ted Kennedy.  Thankfully, everything I’ve read so far has given (mostly and here too) equal space to his triumphs as will has his downfalls.

As I read through the various obituaries, all the kind words that have been spoken and the volumes of legislation that he had a hand it, I am overwhelmed by the breadth of his life’s accomplishments and the lives that he has touched.

And I remember why public service is so important to me. Through public service, each of us has the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those who live among us.  We all have a duty to stand up and support policies that reflect the kind of world we want to live it.

Do we want to live in an America where those less fortunate have no opportunities to better themselves? Do we want to live in an America segregated into haves and have nots? Do we want to live in an America that squanders our precious resources with no thought for tomorrow?  Do we want to live in an America where many of us lack access to basic necessities and food?

That’s not the kind of world I want to live in. I want to live in an America that celebrates diversity and equality.  I want to live in an America where people of different socio-economic standings have the same opportunities for advancement.  I want to live in a world that cares for the least among us.  I want to live in an America that believes in and supports the progressive social policies that Senator Kennedy spent decades in the Senate fighting for.