A Reading from Kim's Niece

Read at the service by Katie Snyder, Kim's Niece

As I watched the rising sun Friday, I wondered who else was seeing this celestial globe and hoped they also felt its importance.  I knew that God was sending a very special red carpet welcome for Kim’s journey into the gates of Heaven.

Last night, Kim’s family welcomed hundreds of visitors coming to say goodbye and offer condolences. At one point, I stepped outside and was taken back by a line of friends, family and community stretching to the sidewalk.  I began to think about a letter I had written to Kim a week before she passed – it rang with more truth and clarity than ever.  I’d like to share what I shared with Kim on Friday, August 28th.

Kim,

I was watching some people talk about Ted Kennedy this morning and how the Kennedy family was coping with their recent loss.  They stood vigil over him last night so he would not be alone even now.  This reminded me of how proud I am of our family for being your vigilant angels and caregivers.  And for you for letting the family be there for you – sometimes we have needed that more than you might have.

I've been thinking about you, your fight with cancer, and our family even more intensely since I heard that Senator Kennedy went home to God.  The impression that Ted Kennedy left on the country and world at large can’t begin to compare to the impression you’ve already given each of us.

They talked about how Rose Kennedy told her kids to "give back more than they were given". They also talked a lot about how the Kennedy's built a strong foundation of service to others into each family member.  Special Olympics, Alzheimer’s, Civil Rights, etc.. they have touched all of our lives in ways we probably don't think about very often.

John McCain spoke about how Ted Kennedy was sincere and genuine with everyone he encountered. He regaled stories about his sense of humor at times, and his focus on his beliefs at others.  Joe Biden said that when “Teddy” talked with a person, it made that person feel like they were the most important thing in his world for that moment - that he never made the conversation about himself, but always about the person he was talking to.  He faced a lot of controversy in his past, but several of his friends this morning said that they believed he put great effort into paying penance and more for his mistakes.

All of this made me think about how the generations of our family have really done some parallel things.  We may not have family compounds or fame in the same way that they do... but we have people who volunteer, create groups to Give Back, and make sure that the people around them feel IMPORTANT every day.  We also have a great capacity to forgive and accept each other when we make mistakes.  I cannot tell you how many times I’ve been told by others how lucky we are.. how unique our family ‘culture’ is.  They are right.  And I’m stricken today by the similarities I see between the Kennedy family closeness, service to others, love, laughter and deep love for one another… and ours.  Some people don’t live a day of their lives with the love and support we might too often take for granted as part of such an amazing family.

Kim - you are all of these things and more.  I can't think of a time when you were selfish.  I can think of countless times you have given of yourself - sometimes with more than you had to give.  You always hug and kiss us.  You always tell us you love us. We never have to wonder what your intentions are - they are pure and good.  You taught us that it's OK to cry when we tell people what we are thankful for, when we are sad, when we are hurt and especially when we are overjoyed.  You showed us that every person is valuable, no matter who they are or what their background is.  You don't judge, but rather, you accept people and allow them to come to you as they are.  You are the heart and soul of what it means to be a part of this family.  You are a humble and often underappreciated angel that has graced us for so many years. You have certainly been able to shine as one of God’s children in a way that many people couldn’t imagine.  I know that He is not done with you yet – and can only imagine the peaceful glory that awaits you in His arms.  You have done the generations before and after you PROUD.  We will all look for you when our time comes… listen for the “E-AAA-KEY” when we come running to you in Heaven!

I am so proud to say that I have been able to learn about life from you.  Kenny and I will be forever changed for the better to have you in our lives.  You have given us such a beautiful legacy to uphold.  Your unending love and joy of life will be forever with us.

I love you, Kim... you are my sunshine!