Many of us who watched the vice presidential debate (hosted by our very own Wash U.) last night, anticipated some cringe-worthy moments. Whether you were waiting for Biden to lose it or Palin fumble it, the potential for drama was sky high. But in the thick of all the political posturing, there was a surprising moment of real emotion. It was when Joe Biden talked about the loss of his first wife and daughter and whether his sons would survive the accident that nearly wiped out his family.

No matter how long ago, some hurts stay with you. How ironic that at a time when so many Americans were tuning in for bloodthirsty battle, we were reminded of our greatest blessings. It was humbling. Moreover, it was a man who choked up talking about his family. Just as Sarah Palin’s nomimation was a significant moment for working mothers, Joe Biden’s emotional mention of being a single parent - in a vice presidential debate, no less — is a significant moment for fathers.