With the death of Eunice Kennedy Shriver this week, Ted Kennedy is the sole remaining child of Joe and Rose Kennedy. And, I suspect we'll be eulogizing him soon.
I've always had a fascination with the Kennedys. Some writers refer to them as American Royalty and I tend to agree. Yes, they have their scandals and their bad seeds but they also have done some pretty amazing things.
Eunice was known for founding the Special Olympics and championing the mentally challenged. We all know this passion was born of her love for her older sister. This may be how she will be immortalized in the history books but I was most impressed with her role as a mother. Her four children adored her and more importantly, wanted to live up to her expectations. Her expectations were huge. There was a quote from her daughter, Maria Shriver, at the memorial service, "If my mother were here today, she would be pounding on this podium and asking all of you what you have done today to change the world."
Good question. Probably one we should all ask ourselves more often.
I loved Eunice Kennedy Shiver! What an amazing life she lived! I would have so loved to have been her friend!
ReplyDeleteYou know how fond I am of the Kennedys.
Facinating, inteligent and giving family.
Yes, I agree with what you wrote. I also loved Maria's sharing what she said of her Mother demanding "what have you done". What a wonderful spirited woman Eunice was.