“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.” – John F. Kennedy, Inaugural Address, 1961
In sales, it is imperative to ask the right questions. Without asking the right questions, you may never find the answer. America is at a tremendous cross roads and I wonder if we are even asking the right questions. In 1961, John F. Kennedy spoke words that now seem etched in the hallows of time and presidential glory: “Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country…” But much more of what he spoke that day bears remembering as well. Doing so will illuminate the kind of questions that need to be answered by all of us today.
“We dare not forget that today we are the heirs of that first revolution. 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…proud of our ancient heritage…” What have we, in this day, done with this torch of freedom for which so costly a price has been paid? Is it being passed on, or snuffed out?
“Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardships, support any friend, oppose any foe, to assure the survival and success of liberty…” Where has the warrior heart of America gone to honor this legacy of leadership and strength? Are we standing for freedom or appeasing evil?
“I do not believe that any of us would exchange places with any other people or any other generation. The energy, 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.” Where has that energy, faith and fire gone? Have we allowed it to be replaced by self loathing, guilt and revisionist history?
“With a good conscience, our only sure reward, with history the final judge of our deeds, let us go forth to lead the land we love, asking His blessing and His help, but knowing that here on earth, God’s work must truly be our own.”
Have we lost our love for America? Have we allowed the cynics and the “blame America crowd” to drown out the ringing bells of liberty, justice and faith? What is America asking of us today? Are we hearing her cries from within? Have we forgotten the dreams of our founding fathers who pledged their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor?
Let us ponder these stirring questions with a humble heart and an eager spirit. We must then go forward with courage and answer these questions with bold conviction. America’s destiny and the freedom of millions lies in our hands and in our hearts.
In sales, it is imperative to ask the right questions. Without asking the right questions, you may never find the answer. America is at a tremendous cross roads and I wonder if we are even asking the right questions. In 1961, John F. Kennedy spoke words that now seem etched in the hallows of time and presidential glory: “Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country…” But much more of what he spoke that day bears remembering as well. Doing so will illuminate the kind of questions that need to be answered by all of us today.
“…the same revolutionary beliefs for which our forbears fought are still at issue around the globe – the belief that the rights of man come not from the generosity of the state, but from the hand of God.”
In that one sentence, Kennedy captures a profound truth of American exceptionalism that many of us have forgotten. The state does not exist to provide for us. It was established to protect what God has granted each human being – life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Are we seeking to be served by America?
“Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardships, support any friend, oppose any foe, to assure the survival and success of liberty…” Where has the warrior heart of America gone to honor this legacy of leadership and strength? Are we standing for freedom or appeasing evil?
“I do not believe that any of us would exchange places with any other people or any other generation. The energy, 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.” Where has that energy, faith and fire gone? Have we allowed it to be replaced by self loathing, guilt and revisionist history?
“With a good conscience, our only sure reward, with history the final judge of our deeds, let us go forth to lead the land we love, asking His blessing and His help, but knowing that here on earth, God’s work must truly be our own.”
Have we lost our love for America? Have we allowed the cynics and the “blame America crowd” to drown out the ringing bells of liberty, justice and faith? What is America asking of us today? Are we hearing her cries from within? Have we forgotten the dreams of our founding fathers who pledged their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor?
Let us ponder these stirring questions with a humble heart and an eager spirit. We must then go forward with courage and answer these questions with bold conviction. America’s destiny and the freedom of millions lies in our hands and in our hearts.
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