My Mom, Ted, And Me

The competition was hot between Clinton and Obama. And, the Obama camp knew they needed to penetrate South Texas with their campaign. I was keeping up with every candidate’s campaign tour. Signed up to their email lists. By the time I knew it, it was rumored that Ted Kennedy was making a trip to Corpus Christi. Not long after that, it was confirmed he was gonna be making an appearance at the Richardson Auditorium at Del Mar College. To be honest, I wasn’t all that interested. I told my mom and she was all excited. She grew up watching the Kennedy Family. I knew we had to make it happen. Luckily, she had the day off.

It was a cool day in February. We walked into the auditorium looking for the closest pair of seats we could find. And, we got close. We were about five rows away from the stage. The rally began. It was the usual bunch of opening speakers hyping up the crowd and reminding everyone that this, of course, was the most important election of our time. Then, it was time for the main event. I looked over at my mom and could see the anticipation in her face. The type when you know you’re not just seeing history, but you’re actually taking a little part in it. I can say, “We were there. I saw the man in person.”

Ted Kennedy being Ted Kennedy gave a great speech. He didn’t seem like an old, fat man on stage. He had a huge presence. He had a boom in his voice that made you listen. Improving education and healthcare. Creating jobs. “If I can have the best healthcare plan, why can’t ALL Americans have the same?!?” The crowd erupted in applause and cheers. Followed by, “YES WE CAN! YES WE CAN! YES WE CAN!” And, we did.

Yup, me and my mom were there. We saw him speak in person.

R.I.P. Senator Ted Kennedy

PEACE and ABUNDANCE!!

Photo: Ted Kennedy in Richardson Auditorium campaigning for Barack Obama. Courtesy of AP.