Times Gone By

 

                                                                               

When asked why he remained in the somewhat humble job of press secretary, when he could have had a “more high-profile job in the private sector, Pierre Salinger, who worked for John F. Kennedy, said something to the effect, “The opportunity to work for a man like Jack Kennedy comes along maybe once in a lifetime.”

 

Kennedy had loyal friends and associates, though he didn’t demand loyalty. He was pragmatic and political, but he was also principled. Listen to his wonderful speeches! People gravitated to him and wanted to be on his team. He wasn’t naive but he was respectful and appreciative of the talents of other.

 

JFK surrounded himself with smart, accomplished, successful people.  He knew his limitations, and he wasn’t threatened by the expertise of others. People like John Galbraith, Robert McNamara, Nicholas Katzenbach, and Dean Rusk were giants in their own right, and Kennedy wanted them on his team.

 

JFK demanded that his cabinet and advisors tell him what they thought which may or may not have agreed with his ideas. He did not want yea sayers and was clear about this. He liked to take under advisement the ideas of his associates and then make his own decision.

 

How different the current administration is! 45 wants agreement and attacks critics. A friend can become an instant enemy when he raises questions about the policies of 45. Men with distinguished careers are denigrated quickly if they question 45.

 

John Kennedy owned his errors. I remember well his television speech after the failed invasion of Cuba. He said he took “full responsibility” for the failed mission. Have you ever heard 45 make such a statement? Kennedy was an 

 role model for all citizens. Is 45?