The Greeks understood that mind and body must develop in harmonious proportions to produce a creative intelligence. And so did the most brilliant intelligence of our earliest days - Thomas Jefferson - when he said, not less than two hours a day should be devoted to exercise. If the man who wrote the Declaration of Independence, was Secretary of State, and twice President, could give it two hours, our children can give it ten or fifteen minutes.
Interpretation
This quote emphasizes the importance of balancing mental and physical development for overall intelligence and creativity.
John F. Kennedy highlights the idea that both mental and physical health are essential for a well-rounded education and the development of intelligence. He references Thomas Jefferson to underscore the importance that historical figures placed on exercise as a critical component of personal growth. Kennedy encourages the modern generation to invest a small amount of time in physical activity each day, suggesting that even a few minutes can contribute to their overall well-being and intellect.
In practice
In a speech about youth fitness programs, this quote could be used to advocate for physical activity in schools.
The great battleground for the defense and expansion of freedom today is the whole southern half of the globe... the lands of the rising peoples. Their revolution is the greatest in human history. They seek an end to injustice, tyranny and exploitation. More than an end, they seek a beginning.
I had always enjoyed the title of Commander-in-Chief until I was informed ... that the only forces that cannot be transferred from Washington without my express permission are the members of the Marine Corps Band. Those are the only forces I have. I want it announced that we propose to hold the White House against all odds at least for some time to come.
I am talking about genuine peace, the kind of peace that makes life on earth worth living, the kind that enables men and nations to grow and to hope and to build a better life for their children - not merely peace for Americans but peace for all men and women - not merely peace in our time but peace for all time.
I just received the following wire from my generous Daddy; Dear Jack, Don't buy a single vote more than is necessary. I'll be damned if I'm going to pay for a landslide.
Tolerance implies no lack of commitment to one's own beliefs. Rather it condemns the oppression or persecution of others.
Mankind must put an end to war before war puts an end to mankind.
To read a book, to think it over, and to write out notes is a useful exercise; a book which will not repay some hard thought is not worth publishing.
We need literature because we wouldn’t fully know ourselves without it. We need good literature to be fully human.
It is the nurse that the child first hears, and her words that he will first attempt to imitate.
Everyone has their own way of learning.
It is essential to rear a generation at the very top of society that has all the qualities needed to lead and give the people the inspiration and the drive to make it succeed. In short, the elite.. Every society tries to produce this type. The British have special schools for them: the gifted and talented are sent to Eton and Harrow.
There needs to be a lot more emphasis on what a child CAN do, instead of what he cannot do.
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