And She Thought Murphy Had Labor Pains

Perhaps it is difficult for English, not having children herself, to realize that despite the best of parental guidance, the behavior of one’s children can sometimes be a source of great anguish. That is possibly why she slammed the Reagans for what she presumed to be parental deficiencies in their children’s conduct.

While watching KCET’s “The Kennedys,” which documents both the triumphs and the personal failings of these men (and some of their offspring), one cannot imagine targeting their gracious and devoted mother, Rose Kennedy, to blame her for their shortcomings. Her shame and suffering must defy description.

And although English may never realize it, she owes the Reagans an apology.

ELLEN CLARK

Pasadena