I hear an inaugural address from the past that rings true today

[usonian]

Let the word go forth from this time and place, to friend and foe alike, that the torch has been passed to a new generation of Americans--born in this century, tempered by war, disciplined by a hard and bitter peace, proud of our ancient heritage--and unwilling to witness or permit the slow undoing of those human rights to which this nation has always been committed, and to which we are committed today at home and around the world.

In the long history of the world, only a few generations have been granted the role of defending freedom in its hour of maximum danger. I do not shrink from this responsibility--I welcome it. I do not believe that any of us would exchange places with any other people or any other generation. The energy, the faith, the devotion which we bring to this endeavor will light our country and all who serve it--and the glow from that fire can truly light the world.

And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you--ask what you can do for your country.

[lapfog_1]

1. "Yup - JFK really screwed us with that one"

The West Wing... riding in the Limo to the inauguration of President Santos... from President Bartlet to President-elect Santos.

Funny thing... even when I read the words I hear in my head JFK speaking.

[pat_k]

2. Yep...

A call to a new level of citizenship. Reminding Americans of our shared values and our power as citizens to shape a government we can be proud of. Can we reach the people sick to death of the division? People who feel ignored and unheard? It's a tall order, but somehow we need to spark a bit of hope in the cynical, demoralized, immobilized, and hopeless among us. Turnout for the record books!!

[Boomerproud]

3. A heartfelt and appreciated post Pat.

I'm 68 and remember those times, both good and bad, but the cynicism and tribalism is so ingrained now I don't think one person can turn it around. I pray I'm wrong.

[pat_k]

5. No, one person can't, however...

Last edited Tue Jul 23, 2024, 03:06 PM - Edit history (1)

... there are groups sprouting up that give me hope. Groups like Braver Angels and Living Room Conversations. We are seeing forums like With Malice Toward None, With Charity for All, with keynote speakers Spencer Cox and Wes Moore (14:01 to 51:29). I think it is a must see for anyone looking for signs of hope in a bleak political landscape.

37 minutes
14:01 to 51:29
Keynote: Spencer Cox and Wes Moore
44 minutes

52:15 to 1:28:44
Panel
Dr. Timothy Shriver
Ruth Okejiji
Rachel Brand
Donna Brazile

1:28:30 to 1:55:00
Panel
Rev. Dr. David McAllister-Wilson
Joshua Dubois
Peter Wehner


I think there is a huge hunger for hope that is ready to be tapped. If Kamala does a lot less trump bashing and demonizing and a lot more talking about shared values and changes that address those "kitchen table" issues -- changes we can enact if we the people recognize our own power and engage with each other -- I think she could spark renewed hope in our American project. And where possible campaign in the red states too. We've lost many people because they feel completely ignored and dismissed by the Democratic party. It doesn't matter if a state isn't "winnable." We need to be trying to reach everyone.

[Irish_Dem]

4. Another torch is passed.