A little while back, I wrote about my experience watching presidential candidate John Edwards on HBO’s Real Time with Bill Maher. I had been tremendously impressed with Edwards’ obvious forthrightness and honesty during that interview.

Yes. You’ve got that right: a politician’s name and the word “honesty” used in the same sentence. Is that amazing, or what?

After having been greatly disappointed with the choices in presidential elections in recent times (well, like, since 1972), I found myself intrigued and curiously excited about Edwards’ 2008 candidacy.

Now we have the news, in the last week, that Elizabeth Edwards has had her breast cancer return. Pundits, bloggers, and just about anyone else in the politically-aware world, are examining the couple’s choice to remain in the race. Every person with a camera, microphone or a website has felt the obligation to weigh in.

And so will I.

I was very moved by the Sixty Minutes interview with the Edwards’ last Sunday. If they’re in denial about the seriousness of their situation, well, that’s where they need to be at the moment. If, on the other hand, they’re being “realistic,” then they’re simply a tremendously gutsy duo. Whatever they are, they continue to be “real” (authentic) people in my eyes…the kind of couple that, personally, I’d like to see occupy that big light-colored dwelling on Pennsylvania Avenue.

People pursuing their passion. Living in the moment. Knowing that “we’re all going to die” – and proceeding to go about the business of living anyway. My kind of people.

Thanks, John and Elizabeth, for being an inspiration.