A Positive Impact
Today we remember John Fitzgerald Kennedy (JFK), born on May 29, 1917.
Kennedy served in the U.S. Navy in World War II and is considered a war hero after he saved several of his crew members when his ship was destroyed. Kennedy returned home and was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, later to the U.S. Senate, and eventually became the 35th President of the United States in 1960. During his presidency, Kennedy faced a number of challenges — the Cold War with the Soviet Union, the struggle for civil rights in the US, and the escalating conflict in Vietnam.
Making a difference in the world was a goal that JFK aspired to in several aspects of his life. It was a major driving force for his political ambitions and he truly hoped to make positive changes for all. He authored “Profiles in Courage” — a Pulitzer Prize-winning book — considered a classic of American political literature and is often cited as an inspiration for those seeking to make a positive impact in the world.
JFK was the most popular president in American history. He is perhaps best known for his ambitious space program, which included the goal of landing a man on the moon before the end of the 1960s. His youth, charisma, and strong public speaking skills made him a beloved figure, and he was widely admired for his vision and leadership. He was especially respected by young people who were inspired by his call to public service and a commitment to social justice.
Our character Adam, in Adam in Taoland, goes through a journey of self discovery to ultimately find himself answering the call to public service after realizing his true purpose of selfless service to others. Later in Homeland Rescued, Adam further expands his purpose to embrace the fight for social justice for his people in Novana. His behavior models that of JFK as he learns to put others before himself for the greater good.
People like John F. Kennedy are the sparks which ignite us to strive to become our better selves. The entire world was stunned and saddened when he was assassinated in November 1963. But we must not let the negativity of his assassination drown out the light he brought to America and the world. We must follow in his footsteps and further forge the path he once carved. We look to his legacy, to a life lived in service of others, and take inspiration from his acts to push ourselves towards making a similarly positive impact.
