RIP Mama Biden

[babylonsister]

http://mydd.com/2010/1/8/rip-mama-biden-2

RIP Mama Biden

by Nathan Empsall, Fri Jan 08, 2010 at 10:55:13 PM EST


A few months before the 2008 New Hampshire primary, I told then-Senator Joe Biden one of my favorite things about him was that he seems to quote his parents and ancestors more than he quotes just about anyone else, even more than foreign leaders or Irish poets. He thought for a moment and said, “You know, you’re probably right.”

I never had the pleasure of meeting Catherine Eugenia Finnegan “Mama” Biden, but those on the campaign who did absolutely adored her. Mama Biden died this morning at the age of 92.

ABC News has a video on YouTube of the part of the Vice President’s Convention speech where he pays tribute to his mother. Embedding is disabled, but you can watch it here (at link)
.

I wish that my dad was here tonight, but I am so grateful that my mom, Catherine Eugenia Finnegan Biden, is here. You know, she taught her children--all the children who flocked to our house--that you are defined by your sense of honor, and you are redeemed by your loyalty. She believes bravery lives in every heart and her expectation is that it will be summoned.

Failure at some point in everyone's life is inevitable, but giving up is unforgivable. As a child I stuttered, and she lovingly told me it was because I was so bright I couldn't get the thoughts out quickly enough. When I was not as well dressed as others, she told me how handsome she thought I was. When I got knocked down by guys bigger than me, she sent me back out and demanded that I bloody their nose so I could walk down that street the next day.

After the accident, she told me, "Joey, God sends no cross you cannot bear." And when I triumphed, she was quick to remind me it was because of others.

My mother's creed is the American creed: No one is better than you. You are everyone's equal, and everyone is equal to you. My parents taught us to live our faith, and treasure our family. We learned the dignity of work, and we were told that anyone can make it if they try.

Joe and Catherine Biden

[goclark]

1. What a lady ~ what a Mom, what a son! K and R

K and R

[suffragette]

2. A wonderful portrait

and the picture captures a great moment between mother and son.

rest in peace

[gateley]

3. She was truly a strong, feisty, GOOD woman. She made an impact. Go in peace. nt