Teddy and his brothers proved that being born rich does not make a person devoid of empathy.

[Bicoastal]

Ted, Robert, and John never wanted for money. They never had to worry being able to afford college, or health care, or a roof over their heads. From the instant they came into the world, the Kennedy boys led what you would call charmed lives, full of glamour, wealth, and status.

And yet, it's hard to think of three public figures in the last 50 years who did more to assist and inspire the average American than these three brothers. What's more, it's impossible to think of three who sacrificed more. Whatever unfair advantages in life they gained by being born into a life of luxury, they compensated us for this inequality a million times over.

RIP, Teddy. :patriot:

[Ishoutandscream2]

1. Amen, and good post

Big K and R.

[TiredOldMan]

2. Family Reunion

RIP great man. May you enjoy your reunion with your brothers and other family members!

[T Wolf]

3. Exactly. The example the members of that family have set in terms of caring for and

DOING something for those not as fortunately born is downright beautiful.

It seems they really took to heart the messages from their religion about "do unto others."

[Kajsa]

4. They always fought for the

common man and equality.

:patriot:

[liberal N proud]

5. They lived like I would want to if I were rich

Caring for those who are not as fortunate.

We were lucky to have the Kennedy's Some we didn't have long enough.

[Individualist]

6. They understood and practiced the concept of noblesse oblige.

Great men, all.

[Lancer]

7. So many people born into lives of material advantage

and privilege fail to remember the words of St. Luke, that to whom much is given much is expected.

I think that Ted and all his siblings must have felt at times that their many material advantages were burdens rather than blessings, especially when their father was bearing down on them so hard. At age 36, all of those dashed hopes and expectations were forced on Teddy's shoulders, which weren't quite big enough to carry them. We watched his public struggle to assume that burden, but think of how broad and powerful those shoulders grew to be!

He lived long enough to see so many of his brothers' dreams realized, and to realize so many of his own for improving the lives of ordinary Americans. How fortunate we are that the pursuit of his life was not the Presidency, but public service. Few have ever been more influential, more powerful or passionate providers of the means by which to achieve our everyday dreams.