History is full of lessons. But sometimes, our hyper-present news cycle
shrinks our perspective.
We forget to seek context. We forget to mine the wisdom of extraordinary
leaders throughout our nation’s history.
Tomorrow is the 100th anniversary of President John F. Kennedy’s
birth -- and I find myself thinking about his legacy and his wisdom.
I was lucky enough to be in attendance at his inauguration in 1961. But
you didn’t need to be there to remember the line that’s become
synonymous with his presidency and a fixture in our historical cannon.
“And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you -- ask what you can do for your country.”
It’s this famous line that looms large over the rest of the speech, but I think the very next sentence President Kennedy uttered is just as important -- especially today.
“My fellow citizens of the world: ask not what America will do for you, but what together we can do for the freedom of man.”
President Trump would do well to take this advice. He needs to widen his
perspective and ask more of himself. Being President of the United States
is not about petty victories or self-interest. It’s about service
to mankind. It’s about protecting freedom and peace -- just as President
Kennedy said.
Thank you,
Nancy
P.S. I think President Trump could learn a lot from President Kennedy,
but I want to hear from you.
Share advice for President Trump.