Delaware's favorite son laid to rest
In a heartfelt eulogy at former Attorney General Beau Biden’s funeral, President Barack Obama quoted Vice President Joe Biden’s mother, who always said out of every bad that happens, you can find something good if you look hard enough.
Delaware did not have to look very hard to find something good in the death of its favorite politician. Those who attended the service or watched or listened from afar or who later caught up electronically could not help but be moved by the strong bonds and compassion of the Biden family, shining through even in their moment of profound grief.
The president struck a deeply personal note, recalling Beau’s mighty heart, his determination to earn his own way and his humility. At the same time, he spoke of the ways Beau served and inspired others. In his description of Beau, the president called on us to be inspired: to be a better parent, a better citizen, a person who strives to make life better for the next generation.
Speaking moments after the president yet not in his shadow was Ashley Biden, Beau’s sister, who told stories that revealed the Biden family’s reliance on one another in good times and bad. She was followed by brother Hunter, who described two hospital rooms that would bookend his memories of Beau, first as a toddler waking up, beside Beau after a car crash, and later at Beau’s bedside, holding his hand till the very end. The unspoken message of both siblings was that all we have is each other, and we must work hard to give each other our very best.
It was a ceremony marked by simplicity and open hearts. But for at least a moment, open hearts silenced political bickering across Delaware and across the nation. Republicans and conservatives of every stripe, at the state and national level, including many people from Sussex County, joined with the Biden family to honor the child it has lost.
Political rancor will likely resurface again today or this week, but for one brief shining moment, the Bidens, Delaware and perhaps a watching nation could feel and know what it is like to join together and together seek a brighter path forward.
