Teddy Almost Made it to White House

A Time When There Was Humor in Washington

Laughter is a burst of energy that can restore perspective. What happens to us is not as important as the way we are relating to what is happening.

— Sharon Salzberg

There was a time when Republicans and Democrats sort of got along and when friends could undertake a good-natured kidding of each other and allow humor to be integrated into the serious business of life — and even politics. It was a good model for the nation.

In 1981 James “Jim” Brady was permanently disabled after he was shot during the Ronald Reagan assassination attempt.

His wife, Sarah, was a leader in the gun violence movement. She put together a fundraiser and I got an invite from a donor, Ray Schoenke. Ray was a starting right guard and tackle for the Washington Redskins for 10 years and played in a Super Bowl.

Nancy, his wife, tells stories of nervously waiting for Ray after a Coach Vince Lombardi practice. Lombardi was infamous for his play-through-pain and berating coaching style. Ray had two knee operations and was nicknamed “the dummy” because he had so much tape on his body.

When he left football, he devoted himself to his other job in insurance (this was the day before the big salaries in pro football). He did very well and was generous with his money.