When in a discussion about political action and solutions, I constantly mention the need for multi-pronged approaches, how there is rarely only one way to a political solution. When I need evidence of this idea I often referred to Congressman Elijah Cummings. 
While aimed at overlapping goals, Cummings did work I would never do. More, he was what I could never be, but in a way I could generally respect. I did not agree with all of his work, but I could not question the rectitude of the principles behind it.
He fought battles I would never fight, but that must be fought. He took lumps I would never have to take, and for the express purpose of ensuring someone like me wouldn’t have to take them.
I sometimes rooted for him, usually with some kind of qualifier attached, but he was always rooting for people like me.
Generally speaking, I avoid politicians on sight. It’s best for all parties, really. But I wouldn’t have minded meeting Elijah Cummings, as a person. I had a sense that he was always a person first.
Genuine empathy is not a trait common to politicians as a species. And because it is so rare a quality, Cummings shined because of it.
Much will be made of his conviction, but I like to sprinkle that resilience with a little bit of why he was so committed to his many charges. He fought for hope, love and people as people, not voters. Justice will be more difficult to achieve without his presence.
#ElijahCummings
#ElijahCummings
