JFK- 50 Years Later

Fifty years after his inaugural speech and John F. Kennedy remains one of the most influential figures in American history. As we take the time to remember him, we should also be remembering everything he stood for. John F. Kennedy was a man who believed that American citizens should do whatever they could to better our nation.

I found an article written by Brett Zongker from the Detroit Free Press that covers the anniversary of JFK. On Thursday at the Capitol, JFK's administration, civil rights activists, and members of the Peace Corps all gathered to remember and honor John F. Kennedy. The president and vice president were also in attendance. Zongker reports that Obama referred to our country’s citizens as “heirs to this president who showed us what’s possible.” I loved this reference because he is suggesting that we can all learn from JFK and we all can do whatever we set our minds to- no matter how miniscule or large the task at hand may be. In the article from the Detroit Free Press, Zongker also quotes Caroline Kennedy:

"I think he really expanded and redefined our idea of what it means to be a citizen -- that everybody has something to contribute and everybody has something to give back to this country that's given us so much."

I agree with this quote and find it inspirational. Caroline Kennedy believes that everyone can make a change. She is also reminding us why it is so important to give back to our country because of "what it means to be a citizen." This is what JFK strived for Americans to understand- that we all have the ability to make a difference and better our country.

John F. Kennedy was a man who shared courage and hope with our country. We should reflect upon his beliefs, and never stop asking ourselves "what we can do for our country." (JFK)

http://www.freep.com/article/20110121/NEWS07/101210386/1322/Kennedys-famous-Ask-not-speech-remembered-on-50th-anniversary