Teddy Again

I watched the thousands of people stream past Ted Kennedy's coffin, and the memorial service tonight.

Things I have learned, both profound and mundane:

Ted Kennedy was almost mystical in his ability to know the right thing to say or do, and at showing up when he was needed.

John Kerry had hip surgery.

John Culver, former senator from Iowa, could be a standup comedian.

Orrin Hatch can be sweet and goofy.

Vicki Kennedy rocks.

Joe Biden owes his political career to Ted Kennedy.

Ted Kennedy loved to sing, especially show tunes.

It is endlessly absorbing watching people file past and pay tribute to a great American.

No matter how often one participates in funeral arrangements, there is always confusion about the transportation.

"When Irish Eyes Are Smiling" sounds best in an Irish accent.

Dogs love to watch Brian Stokes Mitchell sing, too.

Tween-aged boys will always mug for a camera.

Health care is going to pass.

Only a barking dog can silence Joe Biden.

There are still a few senators who actually think that the Senate is a place to do the business of the American people and not to further political ambitions.

You can never spend too much time doing things for others.

The governor of Massachusetts grew up on in Chicago.

Doris Kearns Goodwin was a good friend of Teddy's.


I am sure there are many more things to learn. But the one biggest lesson in all of this is: No matter how rich, prominent, notable, etc., people are, at the end of the day they are still just members of a family.