Katie Couric's Notebook: Senator Kennedy

I'll always remember when he took me on a tour of his beloved Boston, and it was clear from everyone who crossed his path he was revered as much as the Old North Church.

He will be remembered for his ability to turn political foes into friends, his gift for hammering out compromises that changed lives and gave a voice to society's disenfranchised. The Kennedy family lived by the motto "to those whom much is given much is expected."

At times expectations were low for the youngest Kennedy son, and he made his fair share of mistakes. But he evolved from a callow young man to an elder statesman of immeasurable strength and unwavering commitment.

He may not have been a perfect man, but his life's work was improving an imperfect world.
And for that we are eternally grateful.

That's a page from my notebook.

I'm Katie Couric, CBS News.