Day 234: A Gracious Mother & Leader

"The days of our lives, for all of us, are numbered. There are certainly times when we aren't able to muster as much strength and patience as we would like. It's called being human. But I have found that in the simple act of living with hope, and in the daily effort to have a positive impact in the world, the days I do have are made all the more meaningful & precious. And for that I am grateful." -Elizabeth Edwards

I share with the rest of the Nation the great sadness that we have lost Elizabeth Edwards today.

Maybe I was so fond of her because she was a dedicated mother and married to her law school sweetheart. Maybe I had a soft spot for her courageous behavior because she lived with breast cancer. Maybe I just was drawn to her commitment to her family because she buried her 16 year old son when he was killed in an auto accident. Maybe I loved her strength and dignity when confronted with so much adversity.

I have been married a long time. I know people make mistakes and have flaws. I recognize none of us are perfect. I will never forget Ms. Edwards saying, "John is a very good man, who did a very bad thing." She was raw, honest and the truth is John loved her in a way many of us will never experience.

My heart aches for her three beautiful children today. Losing your mother when you are young is criminal. And Elizabeth having lost her son, was just an awful punishment that none of us should ever have to endure.

I loved Elizabeth's resilience, and her lovely grace. I also loved her compassion as a political booster. Her brains, her wit, and courage will always be traits I admire. I feel like I lost a friend today, and I have never met Elizabeth.

May she find solace in reconnecting with her son Wade in heaven, and peace that her body does not have to fight anymore.

Thank you Elizabeth for showing women how to be a beautiful leader, mother, sister, friend and champion.