Senator Edward "Ted" Kennedy of Massachusetts passed away last night at the age of 77.  He was a towering figure in the U.S. Senate and a man who wielded political power and influence according to his deeply-felt principles.  Massachusetts, the United States and indeed the world have lost a strong advocate for the rights and well-being of average people.

I never met Senator Kennedy but his work and influence were all around me as a resident of Massachusetts.

A hymn I grew up with had these words:  "May the work I've done, speak for me...when I stand before the throne I want to hear him say well-done.  May the work I've done, speak for me."  While a very human man with human short-comings, he nevertheless leaves a legacy of good work that will speak for him.

My prayers are with the Kennedy family especially since Senator Kennedy's death comes mere days after the death of his sister, Eunice.