John Kerry - Describing Himself (2003)

[angrydemocrat]

Some political insiders have called me aloof over the years. I have a feeling that my my not spending one weekend in Washington for more than seventeen years may have something to do with that label. I'm not aloof at all with my colleagues, friends, and constituents I have spent time with when I'm away from Washington.

Likewise, I've been misunderstood for having a comfortable background. That is true, but it was built on a foundation of duty and service, which my family considered a responsibility. And I'm deeply grateful to have served America, to have done my part, no matter how small, to help out out our great nation.

Fortunately I recognize that life is more than politics and power. As someone might guess from my early decision to serve on fast boats in the Navy, I love pastimes that bring together the sky, wind and surf. One of my favorite sports in fact, is windsurfing, followed by sailing a close second. I'm a trained glider pilot but generally fly with a engine. In the winter, I love to ski and skate, and I'm so addicted to ice hockey that I fantasize about starting a professional over-fifty Senior league.

I have been a avid biker (bicycle and motorcycle) all my life. I bought a Harley-Davidson last year and have been trying to talk Teresa ever since. I rarely get to ride now, which I'm confident pleases her greatly. If there was an ESPN 1 1/2 I would be a charter subscriber. I am a member of one of the most selective but fastest growing sports clubs in the world: the NASCAR fans of Massachusetts.