The Elizabeth Edwards Story will be written and shared soon with all the world. She will be portrayed as a “Victim” coast to coast for what purpose and for what political end? America loves a “Soap Opra” especially if there is a strong, handsome, villian involved and a beautiful princess being wronged. This story has all the elements of a “Train Wreck.” Nothing I can say will ever keep this story from the public, but I can offer some insight to protect this family from being abused. I love this Family and I got their online Christmas card to prove it.

Once upon a time, my Mother was dying from breast cancer like Elizabeth. I saw first hand how death changes relationships and makes some people act in ways you never expected. People you thought would be strong showed weakness and vice-versa. I couldn’t forgive my Father. Actually, as his eldest son, I wanted to defend “Mama’s” honor and whip his butt for being so callous and uncaring. I could count the days she spent alone through her chemotherapy and recovery from her surgery. I can still hear the endless laughter as she suffered in silence in her bed in the back room. I actually hated Dad and Mom could feel it. This is the anger some of us feel for former Senator Edwards. I’ll never forget the wisdom Mama shared with me before she died.

Knowing I was emotionally wrestling with her loss, she called me to share a private moment that could help us all today. She said, “Cecil, make me a promise that you will not fight.” I himmed and hawed, but she was relentless. I couldn’t argue with the woman who gave me life so I promised. We shared a few laughs and looked at some old pictures until she was certain. I didn’t fight. I tried to give her the attention few others did. Sadly, nothing I could do would have been enough. She had cancer. Long story short, I took off work, my relations suffered, but Mama eventually died. I didn’t fight and granted her final wish. I wish Mama could be an Angel for Elizabeth. I wish someone could help us understand? Why not me?

As I shed a tear for Mama, let me share this poem for the Edward’s Family. I loved them all and I took the time to support them as we fought for America, universal healthcare, the poorest of the poor, and gave way to President Obama. I call this, “My Choice.” If it’s “My Choice” to cry and pray or to simply choose to walk away; why be angry at me if I want to run-Before or After your life is done? My anger broke as I saw the truth.

In closing, I sincerely believe there is something here for all to get past the pain of exploitation. Rest assured, the Edwards Family will be exploited again on Oprah… if we like it or not. Their lives and their pains were shared publicly in a two Presidential elections. There’s a high price we all must pay. If this bad decision is truly “John’s Choice” is Elizabeth wrestling with unconditional love? Is Elizabeth Edwards getting a chance to earn her wings just like Mama? This process is not for public consumption- or is it? We must forgive so that life can still be sweet.