Let us not despair but act. Let us not seek the Republican answer or the Democratic answer but the right answer. Let us not seek to fix the blame for the past - let us accept our own responsibility for the future.
Interpretation
Take responsibility for the future instead of dwelling on past mistakes and political divides.
John F. Kennedy's quote emphasizes the importance of taking proactive steps towards the future rather than getting caught up in blame or political loyalty. It encourages individuals to focus on finding the right solutions rather than adhering strictly to party lines, promoting personal accountability and collective action in addressing challenges.
In practice
In a team meeting discussing our project challenges, I could use this quote to encourage everyone to focus on solutions.
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.
The standards you establish for others must reflect the standards you set for yourself. No one will follow a hypocrite.
Leaders don't look backwards to condemn what has already been done; they look forward to create a better future.
Choose the best player for every position, and you'll end up not with a strong XI, but with 11 strong 1's.
The General who in advancing does not seek personal fame, and in withdrawing is not concerned with avoiding punishment, but whose only purpose is to protect the people and promote the best interests of his sovereign, is the precious jewel of the state.
When it wishes anything done which is really serious, it collects twelve of the ordinary men standing round. The same thing was done, if I remember right, by the Founder of Christianity.
I think we would be stronger if half our countries and companies were run by women and half our homes were run by men.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.