probably the greatest concentration of talent and genius in this house except for perhaps those times when Thomas Jefferson ate alone.
Interpretation
The quote highlights the exceptional talent present in a specific place, with a humorous nod to Thomas Jefferson's solitary dining.
John F. Kennedy's quote emphasizes the remarkable intellect and creativity that can be found in a particular gathering or environment, suggesting that despite the presence of many talented individuals, there have been moments of solitude that even great minds like Thomas Jefferson experienced. It serves as a reminder of both the brilliance of collaboration and the importance of individual reflection.
In practice
During a toast at a gathering of scholars.
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.
Only by working within the laws that govern the flow of water will happiness be achieved.
There is no normal life that is free of pain. It's the very wrestling with our problems that can be the impetus for our growth.
The way we respond to criticism pretty much depends on the way we respond to praise. If praise humbles us, then criticism will build us up. But if praise inflates us, then criticism will crush us; and both responses lead to our defeat.
The man who is a pessimist before 48 knows too much; if he is an optimist after it, he knows too little.
If you have no eyes, do not walk blindly; take a staff in your hand. If you have no staff of insight, do not walk without a guide.
Passion goes, Boredom remains.
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