When it comes to former John Fitzgerald Kennedy (1917-1963), the general public is all too aware of his extramarital affairs and his tragic death..
To compound the tragedy of his assassination, Kennedy's noble idealism is in danger of being lost to history as the mass media continues to define him by his personal failings and untimely end.
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Although President Obama is a truly gifted orator and an inspiring leader, his remarkable rhetorical skills still fall somewhat short of the poetry and prose of Kennedy's words.
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Kennedy had the rare ability to move audiences with wisdom, humor, logic and compassion in only a few sentences. In the first of a two-part series on the beautiful 'realistic idealism' of President Kennedy, five of his more profound quotes appear below - touching on the nature of government, hope and humanity. As commentary would be a disservice to his remarks, none is provided. His words stand alone, and they provoke thought for reflection. Next week, his address to the college graduates of American University in 1963 will be examined.
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The following lines were uttered by John F. Kennedy - 'Idealist-in-Chief':
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'A man may die, nations may rise and fall, but an idea lives on'
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'A nation that is afraid to let its people judge the truth and falsehood in an open market is a nation that is afraid of its people'
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'Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future'
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'If we cannot end our differences, at least we can help make the world safe for diversity'
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'Mankind must put an end to war before war puts an end to mankind'
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(Picture: President John F. Kennedy)
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J Roquen