Byrd not ashamed of being old

Robert C. Byrd apparently doesn't like the idea that political buzzards are circling him, considering he sees himself as being able to fulfill the duties of his office.

In recent days, news reports from various organizations and blogs have speculated about who would succeed Byrd should he die in office. A lot would depend on when Byrd died in relation to the election cycle.

On Thursday, Byrd let the world know he's not dead yet. Quoting from a news release his office issued:

"My only adversity is age. It is not a bar to my usefulness as a Senator. I still look out for West Virginia. I still zealously guard the welfare of this nation and its Constitution. And I still work every day to move the business of this nation forward, to end this reckless adventure in Iraq, and to protect, preserve and defend the Constitution of the United States against all those who would reshape it to suit partisan agenda."

"I will continue to work until this old body just gives out and drops -- but don't expect that to be any time soon."

"I believe that all ages and all occupations should be part of a truly representative Congress. I also believe that society works best when the energy and idealism of youth pairs with the experience and wisdom of age."

"America is the land of opportunity. I don't think that our some 36 million citizens over age 65 are disqualified from participating in the life of the country that we helped to build."

"Age is no barrier to accomplishment. When the spirit and the mind are willing, the creative juices continue to flow. I like to think that I still have a few things left on my ‘to do’ list. I also like to think that some day our rapidly aging society will get over its fear and its denial of aging."

I'm not Byrd's biggest fan. But it's great to see him send a signal that he has no intention of stepping aside in favor of the various pols who must be drooling at the mouth in anticipation of his death or disability.

And surely there are those who don't want to see Byrd leave office, but they have to prepare themselves for what they will do when (not if) that day comes. They must have to walk some taut ropes to position themselves without appearing greedy for Byrd's seat.

But we'll let the pols sort that one out. Me, I have too much going on at home to worry daily about Byrd's health.

(Yeah, man. You're looking at Big Daddy.)