The Presidency

"So let us begin anew--remembering on both sides that civility is not a sign of weakness, and sincerity is always subject to proof. Let us never negotiate out of fear. But let us never fear to negotiate.

Let both sides explore what problems unite us instead of belaboring those problems which divide us.

Let both sides, for the first time, formulate serious and precise proposals for the inspection and control of arms--and bring the absolute power to destroy other nations under the absolute control of all nations.

Let both sides seek to invoke the wonders of science instead of its terrors. Together let us explore the stars, conquer the deserts, eradicate disease, tap the ocean depths and encourage the arts and commerce.

Let both sides unite to heed in all corners of the earth the command of Isaiah--to "undo the heavy burdens . . . (and) let the oppressed go free."

And if a beachhead of cooperation may push back the jungle of suspicion, let both sides join in creating a new endeavor, not a new balance of power, but a new world of law, where the strong are just and the weak secure and the peace preserved.

All this will not be finished in the first one hundred days. Nor will it be finished in the first one thousand days, nor in the life of this Administration, nor even perhaps in our lifetime on this planet. But let us begin." (Inaugural Address of President John F. Kennedy Washington, D.C. 

January 20, 1961)

In this snippet from John F. Kennedy's inauguration speech he preached peace. He pleaded with the country - with the world - to set aside their differences and unite. Kennedy's presidency took place during the Cold War so this call for peace was much needed. He wanted to move forward, not linger in problems that were holding them back.

I chose this paragraph because there were many issues Kennedy could have spoken about, but instead he chose to speak about peace. He was very aware that achieving peace would not be easy, that it would not something that could be achieved overnight, but instead would be a long, tedious process that needed to begin immediately. It begins with one person; it begins with one good deed.