November 22nd marks the anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. I was 4 years old at the time but I remember my mother crying and, not knowing why, I started to cry too. Years later I came to understand the monumental events that took place that day that changed our nation. It was such a gray, horrible day. The images on TV were haunting. Who doesn't remember little John, honoring his father with a salute? I pray our country never has to go through such a thing again!
As for JFK's administration, it began to tackle many frontiers. We had the Peace Corps, advocacy for major civil rights legislation, the Presidential Commission on Women, and many more initiatives. Corporate monopolies were being challenged. But not everything JFK did worked. There were certainly flaws. But America was moving, envisioning and dreaming out loud. We could hope that what we heard from the White House would be followed by action- not just more words. We could believe that wonders were possible for us as a nation, a community, a family and a world.
In his inaugural speech JFK set forth what he had planned for his presidency as he stated: And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you -- ask what you can do for your country. 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.
Although the years have tarnished the image of Kennedy, he was and still is a great inspiration to many.
In less than 2 months another young, handsome and charismatic president will take his place in the White House and a new Camelot will begin. Let's pray that the same fate doesn't befall Mr. Obama.
As for JFK - Johnny, we hardly knew ya.
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