The Lion of the Senate (by Jim Wallis)
They call him a lion. John McCain, on Tuesday, called him the "last lion in the Senate … because he remains the single most effective member of the Senate." I've always liked lions. I have a beautiful painting of a South African lion on the wall of our living room at home. My boys think it is Aslan, the lion of Narnia, of whom Mr. Beaver said, "'Course he isn't safe. But he's good."
The nation got a shock this week. Edward Kennedy, the lion who has been in the U.S. Senate for nearly 50 years, was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor. I know Ted Kennedy and his wife, Vicki, and have enjoyed personal conversations with them on a number of occasions over a wide range of issues, including the application of Christian faith to public life. I've found them both to be serious Catholics. And I have worked with Sen. Kennedy on a variety of issues, including legislation for a long-delayed increase in the minimum wage and for comprehensive immigration reform.
When it comes to fighting for economic justice, civil rights, health care, and education, and to opposing unjust and mistaken wars, there has been no greater champion in the Senate, no stronger lion than Teddy Kennedy, as his friends like to call him. And what has been most impressive and inspiring during these last few days since the Massachusetts senator was stricken with seizures is hearing how many friends he really has -- on both sides of the aisle. Despite being the archetypal "liberal" in the U.S. Senate, and the favorite whipping boy and consistent poster child for the right-wing ditto heads of talk radio and the egomaniacs of Fox News, the outpouring of respect and affection for Ted Kennedy from his colleagues in the Senate, including Republicans, has been just amazing.
Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky., Republican leader), said: "Sen. Kennedy enjoys great respect and admiration on this side of the aisle. He is indeed one of the most important figures to ever serve in this body in our history."
Conservative Republican Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah), who has become a close friend of Kennedy, said: "He's like a brother to me. I love him. I love the Kennedy family. He's given so much to the country, and he has one of the greatest senses of humor of anyone I've known in my life. You can't help but like him if you get to know him."
This genuine and generous outpouring of love and concern for Sen. Kennedy proves a very important thing. It shows that one can be an advocate, a passionate and relentless champion for clear and controversial causes and yet still be a bridge-builder, a reconciler, and a seeker of common ground. The conventional wisdom says you must be one or the other, an advocate or a bridge-builder, but never both. Ted Kennedy, once again, proves the conventional wisdom wrong. It is because he is a lawmaker who genuinely wants to get things done, to find real and concrete solutions -- especially for people who really need them. Kennedy is known as a senator who truly wants to be effective and not just right, as so many others, on both sides of the aisle, are too often content to be.
As a Wall Street Journal story said:
Long known as a liberal lion, partisan warrior and scion of a Democratic family dynasty, Sen. Kennedy has, in the gridlocked environment of recent years, played a role as a key deal maker in nearly all significant domestic policy achievements. Many of the most important domestic milestones of the Bush years … could not have happened without Sen. Kennedy's role as finder of common ground between the two parties.
Ted Kennedy represents a tradition of public service almost unparalleled in American political history. Three of his brothers literally gave their lives in service to their country and the Kennedy family has consistently shown how "the haves" can decide to use their wealth and power to help change the world for the sake of the "have-nots." At 77, his colleagues will tell you that nobody works harder, day in and day out, on the nuts of bolts of lawmaking than Sen. Kennedy, instead of retiring to sail off to his beloved
On a more personal note, I have met several of the Kennedy children, nephews, nieces, and cousins. Guess who always calls each one on their birthdays -- and often in-between. The youngest of the Kennedy brothers has become the patriarch of the family now, the lion who takes care of all the cubs. Hearing that impressed me as a father and an uncle myself as to the "family values" of one of the most public figures in American political life.
So pray for Ted Kennedy, Vicki Kennedy, and a family that has both given and suffered so much, as more tests, diagnosis, and critical treatment decisions lie ahead. And whatever your political views, thank God for a very human public servant who has focused his entire political career on those whom Jesus called "the least of these" and who once told me one of his favorite biblical texts comes from the book of James, who reminds us all that "faith without works is dead."
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Comments
Mr. Wallis,
I appreciate your tribute to Sen. Kennedy, but I would like to caution some of the language you use. As you trumpet Sen. Kennedy for being "a bridge-builder, a reconciler, and a seeker of common ground," yet you refer to those who stand opposite you in the aisle as "right-wing ditto heads" and "egomaniacs." This is meant simply as a healthy criticism, not as angry blog spam, but it seems like your terminology and attitude is not beneficial to healthy public discourse or, on some level, Christian witness. I myself fail in this endeavor and do not wish to point out what I perceive are merely specks, but I would encourage us all to remember that our brethren in Christ fall on all sides of the aisle, as do the "least of these," and it is our duty to be Christ to everyone as you have observed through Sen. Kennedy's life.
Thank you,
Dean Simmer
Posted by: Dean | May 22, 2008 12:41 PM
Dean:
I would agree with you except that the point Rev. Wallis was making is the stark contrast between the way Kennedy is vilified by conservative talk radio and Fox commentators on the one hand and the way his conservative Senate colleagues view him on the other. The ditto heads and egomaniacs Wallis refers to are not seated opposite the isle from Kennedy, in other words.
In that context, Wallis' choice of words are not wholly unjustified. And don't forget that the term "ditto head" is one that the fans of talk radio coined to describe themselves.
Peace,
Posted by: Don | May 22, 2008 1:51 PM
Don,
I don't believe anyone on talk radio has said "thank god he has cancer"!!! The same vilified chatter heard on the radio is heard in the house when in debate. Lets keep it all in context. Yes he is a liberal that wants to give more to the gimmees. And yes he is a human being that has been faced with his mortality. It stinks to have cancer and it stinks of hypocrisy to refer to comments from 2 different time frames to “vilify” one group and glorify another.
God Speed Sen Kennedy - a human being I almost completely disagree with.
Posted by: Erik | May 22, 2008 2:52 PM
"Reverend" Wallis doesn't care about the issues, eliminating poverty, protecting civil and human rights, any more than Ted Kennedy does.
Look at their rationales.. rather than take a stand against the wealthy countries like Mexico and others in Latin America, demand those governments raise wages and provide opportunities for their people, both Wallis and Kennedy instead rationalize wealthy interests firing working poor and struggling middle class citizens, and replacing them with illegal aliens.
This has never been about race, we have citizens of all races and ethnicities protesting because they are being fired and displaced. Xenophobia referrs to a fear of people from foreign countries. It is not xenophobic to speak out against having your jobs taken away from you and given to others merely because they will work cheaper than prevailing wage standards. Wallis purportedly being a man of God, should remember that it is a sin to life and demean others.
To them, citizens speaking out, petitioning their members of congress to seek redress for the violation of their rights, is somehow "racist" and "xenophobic". Like the Nazi's they need to demonize and denigrate poor American citizens, because they want to silence them, by discrediting them. They find the facts that if they are rationalizing that citizens do not have any civil or human rights to work and support themselves, it completely blows away their rationale that illegal aliens are doing something they have a right to.
Reverend Wallis would find that Christ would have a huge problem with his hypocrisies.. helping the corrupt corporate and political leaders pit one group of poor people against another, vilifying poor citizens for merely speaking out about how losing their livelihoods makes them and their children homeless. While Wallis and Kennedy live like princes with great wealth, they demand that the poorest citizens be pushed into dire poverty and suffering.
What Wallis and Kennedy are pushing is a return to when the democratic party was the party of slavery.
Neither of them ever address the poverty, the suffering of American citizens, their children and families. The fact that poverty, homelessnes, hunger, malnutrition has risen dramatically among poor citizens since the '90s, when more Americans started losing their jobs to outsourcing, and then what jobs that remained have been taken over by illegal aliens.
Perhaps Wallis should write a blog explaining what his true motivations are.
Because by his way of thinking, if any corporation decided it wanted to displace any workers, for example, they could go to Mexico, fire the workers in a plant, and replace them all with worker from some Carribean Island, etc... and the Mexican citizen workers would be racist or xenophobic for demanding protection of their rights.
What I've noticed is that Wallis has revealed himself to be every bit as much of a huckster and a fraud who exploit and hides behind God for personal profit and agenda.
Posted by: Jenny | May 22, 2008 2:57 PM
Jim,
Thanks for the comments. I wrote something similar in response to the notice of Senator Kennedy's diagnosis at the Sojourner's news blog that Duane S. oversees.
I have been most impressed by the stories of folks on Capital Hill; Senators, Representatives, staff people, who have commented on the graciousness and personal interest Senator Kennedy demonstrated.
An aspect many of us haven't heard about very often and that have been refreshing.
He, Vicki and their family will be in our prayers.
Posted by: Tim S. | May 22, 2008 3:01 PM
Thank you for your article about Senator Kennedy. His diagnosis was a shock to so many people. My daughter passed away in 2004 after being diagnosed with glioblastoma multiformae in early 2002. She was just under 30 years old.
We spent the better part of the time we had after her diagnosis researching everywhere to find some kind of treatment that might help prevent recurrence of the tumor. Her disease had already progressed too far by the time we ran across information about the work of Dr. Keith Black, at the Maxine Dunitz Neurosurgical Institute in California.
At the Center, they have a way to take a small sample of the tumor cells and tailor-make a chemotherapy regimen for that specific individual tumor, with very good results. It is much better than taking the latest drug 'du jour'.
I have tried in every way I can imagine to let the Kennedy family know to look into the work of this leading-edge Center. While I realize that they have far more resources at their command that we did, Glioblastoma is such a rapidly progressing tumor that the symptoms can worsen rapidly over a period of weeks or even days. Time is of the essence, and it is much easier in the midst of crisis to rely on the doctor who is caring for you and his/her team.
If anyone knows how to get this information to the family, it seriously could help the Senator before it's too late. We paid very dearly for this piece of information, and it seems important to at least let them know now, at the beginning of his course of treatment, instead of at the end.
Thank you.
Posted by: Marti | May 22, 2008 3:02 PM
Thank goodness for "bridge-builders" and too bad for those (on either side of the aisle) who continue to find fault and squabble over choice of words - ditto heads, liberals, gimmees, are all mere labels. Let's get over ourselves and aspire to be Lions, whatever our cause may be.
Posted by: Teri Bockstahler | May 22, 2008 3:08 PM
If you ask me, the media has been kinder than kind to Teddy. He is quite possibly the male Hillary -- people either love him for his great legacy or hate the very sight of him.
Of course, I'm a not a big fan of "talk radio" aside from NPR, so I'm not up-to-date nor care what said ditto heads think.
It truly amazes me that in a country where people no longer even ask, "Where were you when Kennedy got shot?" there is still so much attention given to this one man -- and the sort of nobility he carries. They made a big deal about who the Kennedy's support in the election, etc.
If there were a lifetime achievement award for politics, I'm sure he'd have gotten one by now.
Posted by: frankie | May 22, 2008 3:09 PM
I was going to comment on the 'ditto-head' and 'egomaniac' comment, but found I didn't have to. I got back in touch with Sojourner's through the JusticeRevival that was recently held in Columbus. I was particularly moved by the focus on a public faith that rose above politics and called all to a relationship with God and the world around us. An otherwise wonderful article crashed and burned on the altar of partisan politics. No one I have heard has said anything but kind words and well-wishes for Senator Kennedy.
Posted by: Stephen Hielkema | May 22, 2008 3:18 PM
I would like to address Jenny's response, because she seems to speak more from feelings than facts. A resemblance of our "colored" news media that distorts much of what they report. Please read this report: http://mediamattersaction.org/reports/fearandloathing/online_version
then try to refer to facts more.
Now to the topic at hand. We all have flaws, but not all have the influence to affect as many people with our decisions as Mr. Kennedy has. His influence is undeniable, and so is his new found illness. Regardless, he deserves our prayers and compassion as much as any other human being on earth who struggles with illness or suffering. There are miracles happening every day, and during these troubled times of seemingly catastrophic leadership in the world and domestically, one less voice of moderation is surely tragic and sad. We should unite under the banner of Christ whenever the opportunity arises for good deeds.
God be with us all,
Posted by: Julio | May 22, 2008 3:27 PM
Both Wallis and some commenters here mention God, having a relationship with God, Christ's teachings, etc... yet one would be hard pressed to understand their expectation of being considered sincere. None of them care what God expects, or do little more than pretend to strive to be like Christ.
Christ would have recognized the fraud of Wallis' movement, his calls to smear and slander poor citizens, and to help the wealthy and powerful enslave the poor.
Posted by: Jenny | May 22, 2008 3:30 PM
I pray for him as I would pray for anyone -
Posted by: Belle Fox-Martin | May 22, 2008 3:31 PM
Jenny,
You seem to have a big bone to pick with Wallis & Kennedy. Not sure where your beef is coming from. Responsibility for the issues you raise lie more so with higher financial/govermental/corporate entities than these two individuals. The incentive structure determined by the regulation/market structure in place has a greater impact on wages and migration labor than the strongest demages for higher wages. The focus is better placed on specific policies (trade agreements) than personalities.
Plus, it's just good practice not to operate in the spirit of accusation...
Anthony
gospelism.org
Posted by: Anthony | May 22, 2008 3:32 PM
I am disappointed by this language: right-wing ditto heads of talk radio and the egomaniacs of Fox News. I was surprised to see this was actually written by Jim Wallis. Perhaps the language is justified and accurate, but it doesn't seem to fit in with our value system. We can disagree with others without calling them names. I believe we are always called to speak out, but I believe that we are to "speak the truth in love," as Paul admonished us in Ephesians. Resorting to the adversarial language employed by those with whome we disagree is below us and reflects badly on us. I have just lost some respect. I hope you will more careful in the future.
Thank you.
Posted by: Joy Bergfalk | May 22, 2008 3:32 PM
thanks for a lovely tribute to this great American.
Posted by: Gisele | May 22, 2008 3:34 PM
I disagree with Jim Wallis about Ted Kennedy being a "Good Catholic" because Sen. Kennedy: (1) has NOT defended God's UN-BORN boys and girls, and (2) was NOT faithful to his first wife, and (3) let Mary Jo Kopecny drown in his car while he ran from the accident, and (4) he has defended a life-style that is an abomination to God and, in terms of Life-Expectancy, is far less healthy than even smoking cigarettes.
I agree that Ted Kennedy has been a very powerful voice in the US Senate. However, many of his causes have been 100% ANTI-CATHOLIC. He should have been EX-COMMUNICATED by his Catholic Bishop more than 30 years ago !!!!!
Posted by: Joe Allen | May 22, 2008 3:34 PM
Julio,
I believe that it is you who are promoting myth. I live in a working class community, I see every day, have friends and family who are suffering in this dire economy. I have a friend whose husband died because the health care crisis is so bad, that public hospitals in her state no longer allow in house doctors to take patients with medicare who can not afford supplemental health insurance. Her husband was young, but disabled as he had a critical health condition. He lost his job, and health insurance, fought to get on medicare, and when he did he couldn't get any access to the specialist he desperately needed. The public hospital stated that because of the increased burden on the emergency rooms and don't ask, don't tell treatment for illegal aliens, they had to cut somewhere. He left her a widow with two young children. They lost their home as well.
The factories in my area went to Mexico and Asia in the '90s. What jobs remaining that provided good wages, lifted people out of poverty have overwhelmingly been taken away by illegal aliens. Young people used to apprentice in construction, and other similar jobs, now there is no way for them to get these jobs, because illegals have undercut the wage standards.
The MSM doesn't even cover the realities of the poor, they provide cover for the illegal aliens their corporate owners prefer.
Citizens in my community and they are black, brown and white are evicted from their apartments, see their families falling apart because of the stresses caused by job loss and financial insecurity.
Why don't you actually get out there in the real world of the struggling citizens, Julio? Find out for yourself instead of spreading corporate bought and paid for propaganda?
As to your desperate need to change the subject, I know you find the truth inconvenient, but yours is the opinion either based in ignorance or greed. I have friends all over the country, and am very well aware of these realities from one coast to the other.
Christians aren't supposed to oppress others, or to denigrate the poor and powerless. Educate yourself before you attempt to censor others.
Posted by: Jenny | May 22, 2008 3:44 PM
Anthony,
Really? Yet Wallis raises funds to line his pockets by claiming he needs those funds for advocacy. He interjects himself into those political issues. He promotes lies about worker shortages, and jobs Americans won't do.
He denigrates citizens seeking protection under the very laws put in place to protect citizens from being hurt, exploited and oppressed. He then slanders and derides those citizens as somehow being guilty of racism or xenophobia for speaking out in defense of their need to work and keep a roof over their children's heads.
Perhaps you should address your concern to Wallis.
Posted by: Jenny | May 22, 2008 3:49 PM
One of the "least of these" that Ted Kennedy has chosen to ignore is the unborn baby. Even worse, he has supported policies that result in the destruction of millions of babies! Hardly a champion of "human rights".
Posted by: John Eby | May 22, 2008 3:50 PM
My! I thought this blog would be much more civilized. This my first visit.
For sure, Mr. Wallis we in Massachusetts are extemely grateful for your very kind and well-deserved statment of Senator Kennedy' contributions to our country.
Posted by: Jim | May 22, 2008 3:56 PM
Jim,
I liked your description of Ted Kennedy as the lion who looks after the cubs. One story I read about him speaks volumes about his character. On one day, he was at the bedside of his son, who was having surgery for cancer, walked his niece down the aisle at her wedding and was at the Senate for an important vote.
Kennedy himself has said he is "no plaster saint," and he has been honest about his personal failures. But I believe he is a good father and a good man, and he is undoubtedly the greatest senator of the past half century. His long list of accomplishments in that august body are unmatched, and they have been mostly on behalf of the poor, the working class, the sick, the elderly, refugees, minorities and others who are disadvantaged.
I have met some members of the Kennedy family but regret that I haven't met him. Everyone I've spoken to who has likes him.
I appreciate the kind words Kentucky's Republican senator, Mitch McConnell, had for him.
As an evangelical Anglican, I don't agree with Senator Kennedy on a few issues, but I have the greatest respect and admiration for him. Like his brothers before him, he has exemplified the best of the liberal tradition in America.
He and his wife and their family are in my prayers.
Regardless of how long God allows him to remain with us, "the work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives, and the dream shall never die."
Randy Patrick
Winchester, Ky.
Posted by: Randy Patrick | May 22, 2008 4:05 PM
I was under the impression that comments made here were to be in the spirit of peace and unity and of mutual respect. Jenny, to accuse Jim of hypocrisy and Nazism reduces your valid concerns to the fringes of lunacy. Come on, lets be a little more grown up here. Peace.
Posted by: James Sharp | May 22, 2008 4:06 PM
Jenny -
Would you stop it, please?!! The man is sick, for heaven's sake, and Jim Wallis is asking for our compassion and prayers. Whatever your beliefs about him and Senator Kennedy, this is not the time or place to express them.
Posted by: Another nonymous | May 22, 2008 4:07 PM
Jenny,
You are overwhelming and negative...wow.
As a Catholic I have to agree with Joe Allen. He stated the following: "Sen. Kennedy: (1) has NOT defended God's UN-BORN boys and girls, and (2) was NOT faithful to his first wife, and (3) let Mary Jo Kopecny drown in his car while he ran from the accident..."
Last night I prayed for Ted Kennedy and his health and wish him the best. At the same time it is necessary to speak the truth (vocation of the Church). Being 'pro-choice' is anything but a 'champion for human rights.' For the sake of the Catholic Church's integrity he should have been excommunicated and for the sake of Sojo's integrity Mr. Wallis should have choose different words. May God have mercy on me, Senator Kennedy, and all the rest...
Posted by: Zach | May 22, 2008 4:19 PM
I too am disappointed by Reverend Wallis's negative statements about conservative commentators. (And for the record, I'm not a Republican.) That's not the kind of language that builds coalitions. I hope that in the future, Sojourners will model what they admonish the rest of us to practice. What happened to "maintaining a prophetic distance"?
Posted by: Beth in Columbus, Ohio | May 22, 2008 4:26 PM
I used to belong to Sojourner's but this tribute to Senator Kennedy goes a long way to explaining why I dropped out a long time ago.
Jim Wallis conveniently leaves out of the equation Kennedy's fanatical support of abortion - for instance his refusal to even vote to ban partial birth abortion, his support of human cloning for research, his refusal to require parental consent for minors going out of state for abortions, etc, etc, on and on. If Kennedy is the "last Lion" of anything, it's of abortion.
For Wallis - a non- Catholic - to proclaim Kennedy a "serious Catholic" is an insult to those of us who are Catholic, and take our beliefs seriously. And for Wallis to claim he upholds what we Catholics call "the consistent ethic of life" is equally farcical.
Here's a letter from Kennedy to a constituent years ago - before he decided to toe the Democrat Party line.
"While the deep concern of a woman bearing an unwanted child merits consideration and sympathy, it is my personal feeling that the legalization of abortion on demand is not in accordance with the value which our civilization places on human life. Wanted or unwanted, I believe that human life, even at its earliest stages, has certain rights which must be recognized - the right to be born, the right to love, the right to grow old."
This is called hypocrisy. I'm very sorry the Senator has cancer and will pray that he copes well with it; but his past record is nothing to be proud of.
Posted by: tom faranda | May 22, 2008 4:33 PM
Jim,
As a person raised in Massachusetts in one house for 25 years, until well after I left seminary at Andover Newton, in Newton, Massachusetts, I must tell you how much I appreciate your article The Lion of The Senate.
The Kennedy family is a hugely significant part of my soul, as a New England Congregationalist. For example, my neighbors Loraine and Jay Sullivan were largely responsible for connecting me to Ted. Jay Sullivan not only gave me my first 'job' at 12 washing floors outside the home I was raised in on 20 Church Street Swansea, MA but at 16 years old, also put me to work for his religious supply store in Fall River, Massachbusetts. I drove the delivery truck and rode shot-gun more times than drove.
One Friday, a new Oak Altar was slated to be delivered to the Kennedy Compound in Hyanisport, on The Cape. Jay had me jump in and we were off.
As we came around top the back delivery doors, there was Ted, with the help in his shorts and sailing hat. The Senator positively ran to the truck, recognizing Jay at the wheel and shouted as loud as a bull horn: Jay Sullivan, are you still smoking those stinking El Producto Cigars!?! How are all six kids? And that saint of a wife Loraine?!
Lion Indeed Jim! Mostly I'm thankful for the loving and positive connection to the gentle father figures, like my Dad who died in 1985.
In my life and in God's Good Reign, Senator Kennedy is a blessing! Thanks again Jim for this piece of writing.
Posted by: Mike Beynon | May 22, 2008 4:43 PM
My goodness! There was a certain conservative poster here who used to complain bitterly every time it was suggested that the right wing places abortion and gay marriage ahead of every other issue.
I also find it hard to understand how Senator Kennedy reconciles his stand on abortion with his Catholic faith. However, I strongly admire his record as a whole, and believe it is more than consistent with my deepest Christian values. He has plenty to be proud of.
Posted by: Another nonymous | May 22, 2008 4:48 PM
The article by Jim Wallis was heartfelt and genuine. I found some of the responses irresponsible and petty. You may not agree with Mr. Wallis or with Sen. Kennedy, but both have and are doing work that many do not agree with, are afraid to do, somebody else can do it or they just don't care to be bothered.
The issues Sen. Kennedy has addressed and Jim Wallis calls our attention to, are issues of morals and spiritualy and are not for the weak of heart.
As believers in God, charity, compassion and love we should be grateful to have people like Sen. Kennedy and Jim Wallis to remind us and show us the way. Otherwise the naysayers speak with forked tongue. Perhaps some simply don't want to hear the truth.
I am an Catholic of Irish descent and I admire both Sen. Kennedy and Jim Wallis. I do not always agree with both, but that does not lessen any of us. Only bias, ignorance and hate do that.
I pray for Sen. Kennedy and his family. I also pray for Jim Wallis. He's doing good.
Posted by: Ginny | May 22, 2008 4:51 PM
Isn't it a refreshing thing to see some good will coming out of DC for a change. I do find this one thing to be sad though, why does it take a tragedy for people to show love? If we were as loving to each other when we are healthy as we are when we are ill, perhaps there wouldn't be so much illness. Something to think about isn't it. red
Posted by: redhead57 | May 22, 2008 4:52 PM
Please do not respond to Jenny's flaming of this thread.I have asked the moderator to remove her messages because they violate the rules of conduct. Moderator, please also remove this one while you're at it. And then let's keep the focus on Jim's post.
Posted by: I and I | May 22, 2008 4:54 PM
I and I, thank you.
Posted by: carl copas | May 22, 2008 5:14 PM
Get well soon, Teddy Kennedy! I think his personality and his voting record have firmly ensconced him within the hearts of Americans. I was listening to Caroline Kennedy's Family Christmas (ebooks and audiobooks version) yesterday and it made me almost cry... he has a fighting spirit, and I know he'll get through this.
Posted by: Selena B | May 22, 2008 5:28 PM
I agree with those who point out Ted Kennedy's
support of abortion, alternative lifestyles, the Chappaquiddick affair, etc.
But of course these seem to matter less and less
to Jim Wallis and Sojourners every day. We are
not called to build bridges, but to stand for
gospel truth. Senator Kennedy, like so many on
the Left (Al Gore, Jesse Jackson, among others),
abandoned their pro-life position as abortion
increasingly became the great "sacrament" of
their party. But Sojourners cheerfully ignores
such things, because, after all, the Kennedys,
the Clintons, and Obama are against poverty!
I've said it before and must say it again -- I
wish Wallis would abandon his pretense of non-partisanship and evangelicalism and fly under
his true colors as a liberal, mainline religionist
and Democrat.
Posted by: John G. | May 22, 2008 5:30 PM
I too am disappointed by Reverend Wallis's negative statements about conservative commentators. (And for the record, I'm not a Republican.) That's not the kind of language that builds coalitions.
And they want to build coalitions? Sometimes you have to call a spade a spade.
Posted by: Rick Nowlin | May 22, 2008 5:51 PM
Jesus said in Matthew 12:34 "Out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks". This tells the condition of our heart. Senator Kennedy always seems to be angry when he roars his stand on issues. The Bible says that the attributes of Christ are love, humility, compassion and gentleness. I am sorry to hear you uphold Senator Kennedy in this article and your harsh criticsm of certain networks and people does not line up with the word of God. Whatever the nature of the root in our hearts, it will manifest itself in the way we speak. We may deceive ourselves about the state of our hearts with all sorts of ideas about our own goodness, purity or righteousness, but the sure and unfailing indicator is what comes out of our mouths.
God's word will be the judge - no matter what mere man says.
Posted by: Elizabeth | May 22, 2008 6:11 PM
Hello Jim,
Thank you very much for such a thoughtful-informative and heart felt article "in praise of Ted Kennedy"
I too, join you to salute him-give-him well-deserved allocades-so he can smell the fragerance of the roses while the time still yet permits him to appreciate and do so.
My prayers, thoughts, and concerns are with the entire Kennedy family as they go through this-yet another trial and long-suffering in life ordeal.
Indeed, the comfort and peace shall prevail for the family. It is for them to remember that the strength-comes from him who is the source higher power-we all need overcome and survive in this earthly realm.
In troubling time we learn to trust him. In trying times we learn to seek him
And at all times-during the good times and bad times-we must always praise!!!! him...
NOTE: I saw and spoke to you recently-when you were in Chicago for your book discussion and book signing.
Dianna Jones-Wilson of Raleigh NC is our mutual aquaintenance-andis my little sister
God Bless
Reverend Steve Braxton
Marketplace Ministries,Inc
Chicago, IL
email: brasr6@yahoo.com
Posted by: Rev Steve Braxton | May 22, 2008 6:12 PM
I don't normally comment on purely American political issues, but this evening, in our quaint old English fashion, the parishes of our town paraded their newly-elected churchwardens before the Archdeacon of Buckingham so that they could be sworn in and formally take up their office.
All that took place in the context of an act of worship in which the Gospel reading was from Luke ch. 6. It included these words of Jesus:
‘Do not judge, and you will not be judged; do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven; give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap; for the measure you give will be the measure you get back.’
He also told them a parable: ‘Can a blind person guide a blind person? Will not both fall into a pit? A disciple is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully qualified will be like the teacher. Why do you see the speck in your neighbour’s eye, but do not notice the log in your own eye? Or how can you say to your neighbour, “Friend, let me take out the speck in your eye”, when you yourself do not see the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your neighbour’s eye.'
That, I think, is the "true gospel" which should be proclaimed to all those who have taken it on themselves to decide whether Senator Kennedy's moral failings or particular political causes qualify him as either a "good Catholic" or a candidate for heaven. That judgement is God's, not ours and is likely to be experienced by Senator Kennedy sooner rather than later. In the mean time, let us all (whatever our political views) keep him and his family in our prayers at what must be a time of anxiety and foreboding.
Posted by: Tony Dickinson | May 22, 2008 6:17 PM
John G. hit the nail on the head. Jim Wallis is a liberal who hides behind the label of non- partisan evangelical to promote his point of view. He is used by the MSM as their resident evangelical commentator whenever they need to justify their left wing positions. There is a big difference between individual citizens giving of their time, energy and money to help the poor versus a government confiscating the money from its citizenry through taxation and throwing it at the problem. Jim Wallis completely ignores Ted Kennedy's position on abortion on demand, partial birth abortion, etc. when he describes his accomplishments and career. We should pray for Ted's health situation and also for his change of heart on the abortion issue.
Posted by: Martin S. | May 22, 2008 6:17 PM
WE give thanks to almighty God for Senator Ted Kennedy and his ongoing, courageous work for Justice... his most effective medicine is the "Macrobiotic Diet," which can be Googled, along with "Micio Kushi."
Peace,
Clark Gabriel Field
Posted by: Clark Gabriel Field | May 22, 2008 6:28 PM
The Kennedy family has sacrificed so much for America.
Big brother JFK and RFK were both killed by hate criminals.
'The Lion of the Senate' carried the family tradition of service to America with great wisdom, compassion and skill.
A sad time for us all.
Get well, Ted.
We need you.
Posted by: justintime | May 22, 2008 6:44 PM
Wow, what a lot of stone-casting is going on around here...I felt sad about losing a committed public servant, but the negative commentary makes me sick at heart. At least Kennedy is out there trying to get stuff done and ease suffering, rather than adding more poison to the world.
And, sadly, the first thought in my head was, "Finally, a Kennedy we can say goodbye and thank you to in time, before he's taken from us."
Posted by: Roving Thundercloud | May 22, 2008 6:56 PM
Well said "Bockstaller" who commented previously. Thank you, Jim Wallis for your eloquent expression of gratitude to Senator Kennedy, which is what anyone who realizes how much he has touched our lives feel towards this man. He is genuine, he is a champion and a voice for the people who don't have a voice. He loves his fellow man and his country, and without touting his Christianity publicly, he is a true example of a servant of God through his works. I'm so glad you mentioned the extreme right-wing radio talkshow hosts and Fox News, because they have this jealous hatred of the Kennedy family. If we look back on what led up to the trial of Jesus Christ, those who convicted him sputtered the same jealous fears as the aforementioned media groups are doing today with those who are reaching out to help their brothers in need. I'm not saying let's compare Ted Kennedy to Jesus, but let's take a look in the mirror before we sputter words of hatred. What we don't know DOES hurt us, and rather than taking the time to become informed, we become instant judges of others.
The proof is in the pudding, as they say. There's not a person who knows Senator Kennedy and who has worked along side him in Washington that does not deeply respect and admire this man, if not, love him.
Thanks again, Jim.
Posted by: Fifi | May 22, 2008 8:05 PM
I knew this thread would end up being a vomit pit for all of the Kennedy-haters, but Reductio ad Nazium by the 4th post!
As for excommunicating Kennedy; if there was a good reason, why do you think the Church has not done so?
PX
Posted by: neuro_nurse | May 22, 2008 8:11 PM
Jim-
I just want to thank you for a heartfelt article on Ted Kennedy. I have been thinking a lot this week about Ted and you really summed it up well. He is a Lion and he has done so much for us in the Senate, especially for those who were in need and didn't have a voice. Okay, you may not agree with his "liberal" stands, but no one (and I mean no one) can take away the good he has done. Did he "get away" with stuff? Sure he did. But guess what? He will be judged (just as we all will) by the sum total of his life, not the parts. When he stands before God, only He will judge (not us). We all have stuff in our lives that we're not proud of, regret. But as long as the sum total of our lives is for good, than I think at the end we will judged by a merciful God. Now let us pray that the good Lord will let us have Ted a little bit longer, for sure we need him!
Posted by: Debbie Lackowitz | May 22, 2008 8:19 PM
"Liberal Lion and 'Pagan' Warrior", you mean. I feel that disease is most certainly linked to health. And, most Christians agree since the proof is in Jesus who cured and admonished those who sought Him out for their healing; "Go, and SIN NO MORE!" I will pray for The Pagan Warrior, Senator Ted Kennedy, and hope that he seeks out a sympathetic priest to confess his sins of murder-including the countless millions of infant's souls whom he has condemned to death and eternal Limbo.
Posted by: Carol | May 22, 2008 8:36 PM
"Another nonymous", no, I'm a real human being. A liberal democrat in fact. I'm 47, am also a woman of color, and a Christian. I live in a real life working class neighborhood, and I actually take Christ's teachings seriously, and I care passionately about civil rights and social justice. In short, I'm the worst nightmare of the sham Christians here who view those like myself as little more than sheep to herd into lining up for exploitation. I was as offended by the likes of Jerry Falwell and Pat Robertson.. as any decent Christian who follows Christ's teachings would be.
Christ actually told us not to put priests, pastors, et al.. up on pedastels, because like any of us they are as given to sin. He encouraged us to ask questions of religious leaders to keep their feet on the path. Christ threw the money changers out of the temple because there are no place for hucksters and profiteers in the church. Reverend Wallis has the ability to address my concerns, he's a wealthy and powerful man.
Now get over the fact that others have free speech rights and actually dare to use them. Or perhaps like George Bush you believe there ought to be limits to freedom?
"Reverend" Wallis doesn't care about the issues, eliminating poverty, protecting civil and human rights, any more than Ted Kennedy or George Bush does.
Look at their rationales.. rather than take a stand against the wealthy countries like Mexico and others in Latin America, demand those governments raise wages and provide opportunities for their people, both Wallis and Kennedy instead rationalize wealthy interests firing working poor and struggling middle class citizens, and replacing them with illegal aliens.
This has never been about race, we have citizens of all races and ethnicities protesting because they are being fired and displaced. Xenophobia referrs to a fear of people from foreign countries. It is not xenophobic to speak out against having your jobs taken away from you and given to others merely because they will work cheaper than prevailing wage standards. Wallis purportedly being a man of God, should remember that it is a sin to life and demean others.
To them, citizens speaking out, petitioning their members of congress to seek redress for the violation of their rights, is somehow "racist" and "xenophobic". Like the Nazi's they need to demonize and denigrate poor American citizens, because they want to silence them, by discrediting them. They find the facts that if they are rationalizing that citizens do not have any civil or human rights to work and support themselves, it completely blows away their rationale that illegal aliens are doing something they have a right to.
Reverend Wallis would find that Christ would have a huge problem with his hypocrisies.. helping the corrupt corporate and political leaders pit one group of poor people against another, vilifying poor citizens for merely speaking out about how losing their livelihoods makes them and their children homeless. While Wallis and Kennedy live like princes with great wealth, they demand that the poorest citizens be pushed into dire poverty and suffering.
What Wallis and Kennedy are pushing is a return to when the democratic party was the party of slavery. They both ally with the wealthiest and corporate elite, against the citizen workers and are promoting the wages and rights of those workers be eradicated so the most powerful can grow ever fatter through increased human suffering. Nothing Christian about that.
Neither of them ever address the poverty, the suffering of American citizens, their children and families. The fact that poverty, homelessness, hunger, malnutrition has risen dramatically among poor citizens since the '90s, when more Americans started losing their jobs to outsourcing, and then what jobs that remained have been taken over by illegal aliens.
Perhaps Wallis should write a blog explaining what his true motivations are.
Because by his way of thinking, if any corporation decided it wanted to displace any workers, for example, they could go to Mexico, fire the workers in a plant, and replace them all with worker from some Carribean Island, etc... and the Mexican citizen workers would be racist or xenophobic for demanding protection of their rights.
What I've noticed is that Wallis has revealed himself to be every bit as much of a huckster and a fraud who exploit and hides behind God for personal profit and agenda, as Jerry Falwell and Pat Robertson.
Posted by: Jenny | May 22, 2008 9:06 PM
Jenny -
Glad to know you're real, and thanks for your honest response. I just want you to know that I completely disagree with you. Sure, all the political parties have made compromises with the existing power structure. However, to say that there is no difference between the left and the right in this country - which is essentially what you're saying - is political nihilism. You are assuming that you understand the true, unspoken motivations of people to whom you have never spoken, and who have worked passionately to support the rights of the poor. Furthermore, you are accusing Jim Wallis of being a fraud and doing everything for profit, which is probably legally actionable slander.
Tell me how you would solve the problems of trade in a global economy in a way that is consistent with Christian ethics, and please be specific. Believe me, if you say something that makes sense, I'll listen. However, you have a rather high hurdle to get over, because as the husband of a cancer survivor, I'm deeply offended that you would use a thread devoted to summoning Christian sympathy for a deeply ill man to attack his character and principles. As a Christian, I want to hear what you have to say, but I also think an apology would be in order.
Posted by: Another nonymous | May 22, 2008 9:26 PM
Indeed, as Jim Wallis mentioned, the right-wing radio nuts have attacked Ted. Michael Savage has made fun of Ted's illness and attacked Robert Byrd, too. Go to mediamatters.org for the full story.
I pray for Ted and his family at this tragic time and wish Ted good health. Thank you, Ted, for being one of the few not to authorize Bush's insane Iraq invasion.
Posted by: Allison | May 22, 2008 11:31 PM
I join in Another's request to the moderator to squash the repeated vile posting from Jenny. It adds nothing to the discussion and only distracts. She clearly has free-floating angst against anyone of power and wealth, and finds it inconceivable that some with such power and wealth use it to help others, as has Mr. Kennedy.
I enjoy reading the comments of those who have had personal contact with him. I think when more such personal stories are told, we will have a clearer picture of his contributions to our country and a very magnanimous personality.
He could have lived a cushy life in the private sector or sitting on a beach, but chose public service. He is obviously well respected by those who know him best.
To those who feel this is an opportunity to fill the blogoshpere with hateful, judgmental rantings, don't complain when you are described as a rightwing-nut or ditto head. You just prove the label when you do that.
Posted by: c kitty | May 22, 2008 11:50 PM
Thanks Jim for a beautiful article! Although I often don't agree with Sen. Kennedy, I thoroughly respect his dedication and devotion. Most of us will not make a fraction of the difference he's made in this world.
Posted by: Dory | May 23, 2008 1:27 AM
Thank you, Jim Wallis, for this excellent article. Ted Kennedy has spent a lifetime fighting for noble causes. May he now find peace, comfort and healing. I am heartened by the outpouring of well-wishers from both sides of the aisle. It proves that there is good will there. There is at least some hope in that regard.
Posted by: JamesMartin | May 23, 2008 5:47 AM
".. . including the application of Christian faith to public life."
Wouldn't that entail actually following what the Christian faith says (what is written in the New Testament) on applying "it" to public life? It seems Kennedy has opposed (and is fighting to silence and outlaw the Christian faith even now in the ENDA Bill) Christian truth for his entire career. Jim, shouldn't you be fighting to get this man to repent at such an hour as this? Odd that you wouldn't be.
Posted by: T.D.M. | May 23, 2008 8:09 AM
I can see that this was a mistake, and I will make no further contributions to this discussion. Please pray for Ted Kennedy and his family.
Posted by: Another nonymous | May 23, 2008 8:37 AM
Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
How saddened I am to read the negativity. Jim, I was disappointed with your language concerning those on Fox News. That's as polarizing as what I've heard on some talk radio programs over the years. I remember when you were double-teamed on the radio by the late Jerry Falwell and Sean Hannity. I thought how unkind they were. They would've done better to treat you like a brother with whom they just disagree. You know what it's like to be verbally abused. But in your article about Ted Kennedy you verbally abused those with whom you disagree. Such language doesn't do the body of Christ or the state of political discourse any good. Jesus said to love our enemies and I would presume that means no name calling.
And to Jenny and justintime, please refrain from mean-spiritedness. It is one thing to be passionate about issues; it is another to go on the attack. There may have been others on this blog who have done name-calling or strong accusations; I can't take the time to read them all. Let us remember, though, to approach the issues for which we are passionate with civility, grace and love.
May God have mercy on Senator Kennedy in this difficult time; may he find healing of both body and soul. May God have mercy on the polarized Christian community which hurts others with unnecessary words. And may God have mercy on me for my many failings.
Peace in Christ,
Chris
Posted by: Chris | May 23, 2008 9:13 AM
In a partial response to poster Jenny I add this quote by Jonathan Wilson-Hartgrove from another page ("Why We Cant Wait & Why We Must: The Radical Timing of Gods Movement")
"In an age of increasing globalization, it is more important than ever that we witness Christ's way to nation-states, corporations, and international organizations. But our witness there will only be credible if we've taken the time to be converted ourselves and to build communities of justice and peace where it is easier to be good. We won't end global poverty until we learn to care for the poor in our communities. Our cries for world peace will fall on deaf ears until we learn to live peaceably as Christians."
While some of Jenny's comments are angry in tone who can fault her for that anger if what she says she has witnessed to people she has known is true? The changes Jenny looks for are systemic changes. For meaningful changes to the "system" to happen average citizens need to become involved.
Jesus, in his temple incident, I believe, was demonstrating against the corruption of the temple system itself and symbolizing its destruction. The wealthy and powerful in the temple system were collaborators with their Roman overlords.... they enjoyed their position of wealth and power over the people and were determined to keep it. His temple demonstration is most likely the main incident that got Jesus executed by Rome. He said it had become a "hideout for thieves," quoting Jeremiah. A "hideout" is a safe haven for outlaws to flee after committing a crime. That is what the temple had become and that system is what Jesus was protesting against in his courageous action.
We should ask ourselves some difficult questions: "Are we collaborators with empire? Have we assimilated into the ways of empire? Why has the gap between rich and poor widened? Are we partly to blame? Do we care?"
The policies of the United States are not based upon compassion. If compassion were a priority in setting policy we would have equality in health care and there would be no poor among us. (And yes, Jenny is correct to say that millions are trapped in poverty in this, the wealthiest country in the history of the planet.) U. S. policies are largely based upon greed and benefit the wealthy and powerful first not the poor and needy. In the 70s the top 1% of the population owned 23% of the wealth in this country. In the 90s the top 1% owned over 40% of the nations wealth. (Kevin Phillips, Wealth and Democracy). Why is that? Is it because the wealthy and powerful worked really hard while the poor slacked off? No. It is because the system is structured to benefit the wealthiest of its citizens.
So.... I think Jenny raises some good points—albeit not very tactfully—that should make us think and possibly examine ourselves and our motivations and what we can personally contribute to help solve the problems facing us today.
Posted by: jackfate | May 23, 2008 10:26 AM
Dear Mr. Wallis,
I have always appreciated the way that you seek to hold our government officials accountable for the decisions and actions that they take. Especially concerning issues of injustice in the world. Perhaps it is time that you concentrate more of time trying to hold-accountable the corrupt nature of our wildly out-of-control and ineffective Congress. After all, they're public approval rating is far worse than our President. Yet, here it seems that you are glorifying a Senator who has been a poster child for morally bankrupt politicians and a representative for the vastly unchristian Northeastern United States.
While I do appreciate your compassion for Senator Kennedy and his family I question what seems like an over glorification of a Senate Career that has been one of the most polarizing in history, and it is still reprehensible that Senator Kennedy even serves in the Senate after his deplorable conduct in Chappaquiddick so many years ago. Furthermore, your subtle jabs at 'diddo heads' and 'Fox News' are absolutely ridiculous. I have experienced this type of bias from in other articles from members of your staff, and I believe that those types of subtleties do you and your organization a discredit. It seems that you have simply joined with most media outlets in their enamored view of Ted Kennedy.
The New York Post yesterday echoed a similar theme in their front page story, "Brave Teddy Goes Home." What an outrage to call a man "brave" who ran from a car that he crashed while a woman drowned inside. Especially before Memorial Day weekend when we remember people who were really brave.
Respectfully submitted,
Stephen Sharkey
Posted by: Stephen Sharkey | May 23, 2008 10:30 AM
Some of these posts take puffed-up sanctimoniousness to new heights. What a horrible witness to nonbelievers who might happen to drop in just to check out God's Politics.
Posted by: carl copas | May 23, 2008 10:41 AM
Jenny,
I hear a lot of passion and compassion for those who are hurting. That's what we need.
I also hear judgment against specific individuals. I'm not sure that that's very helpful.
In Matthew 13, the Wheat and the Tares are mixed in together. As we attempt to rip out the Tares we also do damage to the Wheat. My observation is that all of us are a mixture of Wheat and Tares- and it is Christ who needs to do the discerning and the judging, ripping the evil from our lives, not us.
In One Peace, Duh-sciple
Posted by: Duh-sciple | May 23, 2008 11:36 AM
"consistent poster child for the right-wing ditto heads of talk radio and the egomaniacs of Fox News'
Jim, you just can't show a little discipline. Now the illness of Kennedy becomes an opportunity to insult others. True colors shining through.
Jeff
Posted by: Jeff | May 23, 2008 12:05 PM
I want to add to my earlier post that although she makes valid points I DO NOT agree with Jenny's judgemental comments about Jim Wallis. In my view he has, like Sen. Kennedy, been instrumental in finding common ground between conservative and liberal Christians—seeking a solution for ending poverty, caring for the environment, etc.
Posted by: jackfate | May 23, 2008 12:26 PM
After reading your last post, Jenny, I sincerely apologize for insinuating you're a 'sociopathic loner'.
I find there's much truth in what you say about the widespread indifference to poverty in America and the disastrous consequences of NAFTA and other carelessly drafted 'free trade treaties'.
But I think you're dead wrong about Ted Kennedy and Jim Wallis.
You're flaming your own allies and by doing so, the truth in your message is lost.
I could probably use some of this advice too.
I hope you will temper the outrage and contribute your insight on poverty when this topic comes up on the God's Politics blog.
Posted by: justintime | May 23, 2008 12:29 PM
There is a gross excess of words here, in our culture, in our government and most dangerously in our individual lives. Christ did not call for legislative love or a cultural relationship with Him. He called us and will judge us based on individual actions (fruit) and relationships (making disciples).
Sure it's interesting to spend a whole lot of time asking WWJD and criticizing those who "fall short". The truth is we are called to do what is right, not talk about it.
1 John 3:18 Children let us not love in word or tongue but in deed and truth.
I hope each of us can start acting on our "convictions" not just writing about them. Lets keep our eyes on glorifying Christ.
I pray this string is not a distraction but a motivator for others.
in Christ,
not a gimme... but a teachme
not an egomaniac, but do enjoy my dittos
They will know you are Christians by your love one for another.
Posted by: Erik | May 23, 2008 12:43 PM
I honestly think Wallis is more enamoured with himself for having met Kennedy then with Kennedy himself.
Amazing how good people get when they get terminal. Sure he's done some good things, but I wouldn't compare him to the "He isn't safe, but he's good" line. "He isn't safe, he's just powerful" is closer to it.
Posted by: George | May 23, 2008 12:59 PM
Jenny,
Actually there is very little real poverty in America at least materially. The Appalachian mountains and some inner city places not with standing the poor in America have access to running water, electricity and other necessities in some way shape or form. But if you go any "third world nation" you will see that most people don't even have access to clean drinking water, a stable environment and other necessities.
"I am demanding that Reverend Wallis actually walk the walk, and speak honestly about the realities instead of provide lip service to lies on behalf of the corporate elite. That he address what he has deliberately ignored these past few years, the poverty that is being created and worsened by his rationale for not enforcing our immigration laws. The fact that we have long term unemployed and underemployed citizens all across this country who are unable to get work, because illegal aliens undercut wages. From New England, the mid-Atlantic states, down to Florida and all across this country, citizens are being displaced, and ignored."
I appreciate your moral outrage for the poor here in America but I wish you would stop scapegoating immigrants illegal or otherwise. Not only that but what you are writing is simply not true across the board. The only place you will possibly see wages being driven down is in construction and that's only in a few select areas. Wages for food and hospitality are pretty consistent.
There is nothing wrong with being concerned with the poor that cross the border. They are in search of a better life and contribute a great deal to this country. I dare you to volunteer and do some good in that area so that the love you have for your fellow Americans can grow out into something more, something global.
p
Posted by: Payshun | May 23, 2008 1:13 PM
sir; you want a correct view of the Kennedys,read the book written by Peter Collier and David Horowitz called THE KENNEDYS.They were all a rotten to the core bunch. Teddy lost all moral or any other authority that he might have been endowed with at that BRIDGE in 1969. Whatever the creep has done since then is as filthy rags in the nostrils of GOD.He has a brain tumor and his days are numbered. he will soon face a higher authority.May his soul find mercy although he doesn't deserve it. R.W.T.
Posted by: ron | May 23, 2008 2:21 PM
ron: "sir; you want a correct view of the Kennedys,read the book written by Peter Collier and David Horowitz called THE KENNEDYS."
Peter Collier and David Horowitz were hardcore, ideological, New Leftists in the 1960s. Horowitz wrote a book damning U.S. foreign policy, "The Free World Colossus: A Critique of American Foreign Policy in the Cold War."
Then sometime in the 1970s, Horowitz and Collier (along with Ronald Radosh)got religion of a particular sort, and became hardcore, ideological Reaganite extremists. Shadowing the trajectory from Trotskyism to neoconservatism led by people such as Norman Podhoretz and Irving Kristol, Horowitz and Collier became vociferous critics of liberalism and and politics farther to the left.
I trust very little that these two write. They've simply taken their one-sided ideological views and moved them to the other end of the spectrum. They tend to be hateful and supercilious.
Posted by: carl copas | May 23, 2008 2:46 PM
allow me a rebuttal.......PLEASE; O. K. Messrs Collier and Horowitz may be big liars or B.S.ers, but THE KENNEDYS is only 454 pages long with all the lies and B.S. In the book the authors also were kind enough to include 106 pages of notes and backups that could be referred to if you didn't believe what they wrote, so it can't be all propaganda and lies.the book has a ring of truth to it. (now lets call a spade a spade). Old Joe the patriarch was a whore master and a womanizer of the FIRST magnitude who flaunted it in front of his sons ,daughters and his wife.It is a well known fact that he carried on an open affair with Gloria Swanson for many years to the point of moving her into his home for a time and didn't care what his family thought.His young sons saw all this and assumed that this was the way to live life and all did the same as Joe.I refer you to another eye opening book, (WHEN THE MOB RAN VEGAS)by Steve Fischer. read the chapter called (FRANK SINATRA'S CAL-NEVA LODGE). the comings and goings at cabin #3 Bobby and John both OLD Joe's boys were frequent visitors.I rest my case with this final thing.The heaven that those a-holes are living in I don't want no part of.
Posted by: ron | May 23, 2008 9:06 PM
ron -- You miss the point. The truth is that you could write some of the same things about the backgrounds of certain conservative Republican politicians, and truthfully; but they would never see the light of day because the outrage would be so strong (just consider the movie about the Reagans that Showtime wanted to air some years ago but was either edited or taken off). Besides, you can use "proof" for anything you want; one of my conservative colleagues at the newspaper where I work actually tried to say that "liberals" were the real racists during the 1960s and "conservatives" supported the civil-rights movement, which everyone outside the conservative movement knows is a flat lie.
Posted by: Rick Nowlin | May 23, 2008 11:54 PM
I'm not an admirer of Ted Kennedy. He does not support legal protection of unborn children. SOJOURNERS should advocate opposition to legalized abortion as a litmus test issue, and reject all pro-abortion political candidates.
Posted by: Jerry | May 24, 2008 1:35 AM
Jim Wallis leverages this opportunity to lob insults at conservatives. And if conservatives take offense, we stand on the side of brain cancer.
Cute.
Ted Kennedy has been a "whipping boy" for conservatives because the manner in which he has conducted himself (infidelity, manslaughter and the like) has lent itself to such criticisms. That he has cancer is sad indeed, and I would defy you to locate a source that has not said as much.
Posted by: kevin s. | May 24, 2008 1:35 AM
I'm just gobsmacked that anyone could accuse Wallis of lining his own pockets or deliberately working against the working poor, when his words in my own church a few years ago and everything he's written or published the past couple of decades has been focused on moving Christians past single-issue voting and getting Christians to work on poverty and justice.
And I agree that name-calling isn't appropriate and that one of the very best, most powerful aspects of Sojourners' mission has been to find places that Christians of differing political bents can get together. Those bridges are essential. We need to stay focused on the bigger picture of making life worth living for all of God's children around the world, and for serving as a witness through our peace-making. Many times on boards such as this, there's more heat than light being produced. May it be otherwise here.
Posted by: UrbanRube | May 24, 2008 5:44 PM
"(just consider the movie about the Reagans that Showtime wanted to air some years ago but was either edited or taken off)"
CBS refused to air it, and the reason it drew protests was that it attributed apocryphal quotes to Ronald Reagan in an effort to paint him as an uncaring monster. Showtime did air the film with the most controversial line omitted.
Imagine a film in which Ted Kennedy said of Mary Jo Kopechne "she lived in sin, and died in sin." There would have been quite a bit of outrage from the left about that.
Posted by: kevin s. | May 25, 2008 5:25 PM
CBS refused to air it, and the reason it drew protests was that it attributed apocryphal quotes to Ronald Reagan in an effort to paint him as an uncaring monster. Showtime did air the film with the most controversial line omitted.
Yeah, right. Because, in truth, his policies demonstrated that at times he was an uncaring monster; his contempt for MLK Jr. is already well-known (but generally ignored), just to give an example.
Posted by: Rick Nowlin | May 25, 2008 10:48 PM
Imagine a film in which Ted Kennedy said of Mary Jo Kopechne "she lived in sin, and died in sin." There would have been quite a bit of outrage from the left about that.
So playing tit for tat is legitimate?
At any rate, I seem to recall something similar that did happen, though not in film. It was back in 1979, I believe (though my memory for dates in these matters is foggy), when Kennedy was beginning to make it known that he would run against Jimmy Carter for the 1980 Democratic nomination. That summer, Reader's Digest published a thorough expose of the Chappaquiddick affair. It was credited with derailing not only Kennedy's run for the White House in 1980, but also any chance for Kennedy ever to seek the presidency.
I don't recall a storm of outrage from the "left" at the time, though I could be wrong.
Peace,
Posted by: Don | May 26, 2008 8:24 AM
"So playing tit for tat is legitimate?"
Huh? No.
"I don't recall a storm of outrage from the "left" at the time, though I could be wrong."
Was the Readers Digest piece fiction, or was it actually a thorough expose? If it simply pieced together what judges et al... Had concluded occurred, then we are comparing apples to oranges.
"MLK Jr. is already well-known (but generally ignored), just to give an example."
One could say the same about MLK's contempt for women (as evinced by his actions), which actually explains precisely why such a documentary has not been made. For someone to make a biopic that actually ADDED to the sultry aspect of his record would unleash an enormous firestorm.
But yes, let's save the drowning secretaries talk for another forum. That means also saving the chatter about how the ditto-heads have treated the incident. Jim Wallis wants to have his cake and eat it too.
Posted by: kevin s. | May 27, 2008 1:44 AM
I think it was the comic strip character "Pogo" who describes the tenor of our discussion:
"We have met they enemy, and they is us."
Christian charity and civility demand that we be more like Jesus.
Chris
Posted by: Chris | May 27, 2008 12:50 PM
Question:
"Was the Readers Digest piece fiction, or was it actually a thorough expose?"
Answer:
It was the Readers Digest.
It could be said that Senator Kennedy has lived a life of Biblical proportions, both in good and bad ways, both in strengths and weakness, in short a very human man. Perhaps many of us do not share the negatives which the Senator can be accused of, but also we probably do not have the positives either.
I also am very familiar with the type of tumor he has and the probable future he will experience.
I think we can just pray now and leave the debates for later.
Posted by: wayne | May 27, 2008 1:22 PM
Wow. So many good Christian people know for sure that Ted Kennedy committed manslaughter on a Massachussetts bridge that it must be true.
It must be true, because so many good Christians agree it is so, that Kennedy is a bad Christian. Why? He stands up for the sanctity of motherhood, even if it means keeping the government out of the womb. He stands up for fairness and juctice for all adults, including those dreaded homosexuals.
So many good christians believe that because Jim Wallis has become a succesful advocate with a high profile that he must be a huckster. Worse yet, a name caller. How dare he refer to Rush Limbaugh listeners as 'ditto-heads' (ignore the fact that's what they call themselves) and 'egomaniacs' (more a behavioral description than a 'name'...but let's not quibble with fine points)?
So many good Christians have ruined this article, which has done nothing more than call for sympathy for one of God's children.
My heart aches for Senator Kennedy. My heart also aches for so many good christians, whose subconscious need to validate themselves at the expense others can't allow them, even for a moment, to express love for one of their enemies.
Posted by: Jesus4prezAkronChapter | May 27, 2008 5:28 PM
To: Jesus4prezAkronChapter | May 27, 2008 5:28 PM
Thank you for your comments. They are a perfect end to this judgemental thread. It is a shame that many comments to this article "which has done nothing more than call for sympathy for one of God's children" are so outright vindictive and hateful.
Posted by: jackfate | May 28, 2008 12:21 PM
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