What We Can Learn from Ted Kennedy
Senator Ted Kennedy was the last of the Kennedy brothers
whose power, challenges and triumphs dominated a generation
of politics. He was eulogized as an inspiration to his
family and to those in public service. His body of work
toward progressive causes in the U.S. Senate was proof
that he understood how policies affected people. Caring
passionately about the people he served, he worked tirelessly
on their behalf.
Yet his life was marred by tragedy and scandal - from
the assassination of brothers John and Robert and the
earlier death of his brother Joseph in World War II,
to the deadly Chappaquiddick crash.
Despite his personal losses and failings, Teddy Kennedy
persevered. He served alongside 10 United States presidents
and was well known for his political insight. Another
significant role he played was as patriarch to his brothers'
children and grandchildren.
Perhaps Senator Kennedy's life situation was more complicated
than yours. And you may not have to live up to that
kind of a legacy. But as Sandwiched Boomers you must
have your share of crises and challenges. What follows
are practical tips to help you face them:
1. Evaluate the situation
without overreacting or putting your head in the sand.
Pay attention to what's going on around you. Yet avoid
getting caught up in a pessimistic mindset that can
result in higher levels of anxiety and poor decision
making. Remain calm and stay focused on what you need
to do.
2. Realize that support is
valuable. Reaching out to others when you
need encouragement helps you make it through what seems
like an impossible situation. Confide in friends and
family as you work through the difficulties. A second
and objective opinion from a spiritual advisor or therapist
can provide you with further insight and direction.
3. History is prologue.
As you look back in review, consider how you have dealt
with other major trials and tribulations in your life.
Think about what has worked for you in the past. Take
the specific strategies that you learned from those
experiences and, once again, apply the most effective
ones.
4. Recognize how you deal
with tension. Avoid unhealthy activities
like smoking, drinking, gambling or emotional eating.
Pressure and stress can bring about more conflict and
arguments in relationships. If any of these behaviors
are causing problems for you, find healthier approaches
to deal with your negative feelings.
5. Difficult times can offer
opportunities for needed change. Discover
the many ways you can continue to build on your internal
assets. Are you fiercely curious and determined to find
a solution, no matter what? How can your strength of
character and generosity of spirit benefit you in the
present circumstances?
6. Set some long-range goals
about what you want to accomplish as well as short-term
objectives that will get you there. These
concrete plans will provide the basic foundation for
change. As you successfully move forward step by step,
your self-confidence will grow. And incremental action,
as well as a positive attitude, will motivate you to
stay on track and ultimately reach your goals.
7. Gain perspective, whether
you're hit in the face with a crisis or making a slow
transition into the next chapter of your life.
Expect a cascade of feelings- anxiety, the desire to
hold on, resentment, sadness, fear, even a sense of
freedom. The emotional roller coaster ride is normal.
If you have the fortitude to step back, take a deep
breath and face the situation squarely, you can't help
but grow from the challenges.
Kennedy had personal failings but he worked hard to
right his path. And over his lifetime he became a better
man. Presidential historian Doris Kearns Goodwin said
that he will be remembered for his strengths and his
weaknesses: "There's a great quote by Ernest Hemingway
who said, everyone is broken by life but afterwards
some are stronger in the broken places."
Senator Kennedy was a study in strength sustained through
struggle. You too can overcome adversity. If you've
made mistakes, be prepared to acknowledge them and act
responsibly. Don't surrender to self pity and regret.
As Kennedy often told his young son who lost his leg
to cancer - keep fighting, you can do it. Tap into your
spirit of resilience. And focus on your vision and the
possibilities - you owe it to yourself.
Other Articles by Rosemary & Phyllis:
Launching
your "Kidult"
How Boomers
can Sing "Rock & Roll" Instead of the
Blues
Taking a Staycation
Michael Jackson
and the High Cost of Fame
Survive the
New Economy with Shared Housing
How Boomers
Can Cope with Alzheimer's Dementia or Stroke
Phyllis Goldberg, Ph.D. and Rosemary Lichtman,
Ph.D.
www.HerMentorCenter.com
Blog: www.NourishingRelationships.blogspot.com
Los Angeles, California
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