Thursday, January 13, 2011

Words of Solace

"So sudden loss causes us to look backward – but it also forces us to look forward, to reflect on the present and the future, on the manner in which we live our lives and nurture our relationships with those who are still with us. We may ask ourselves if we’ve shown enough kindness, generosity, compassion to the people in our lives. Perhaps we may question whether we are doing right by our children, our community, whether our priorities are in order. We recognize our own mortality; we are reminded that in our fleeting time on earth, what matters is not wealth, or status, or power, or fame -– but rather, how well we have loved, and what small part we have played in making the lives of other people better."

--President Barack Obama, January 12, 2011

3 cat calls:

Tempe said...

The President's entire speech was beautiful written and given. It's been quite a while since a politician has inspired me with words - Obama succeeded last night.

tempe said...

beautiful = beautifully

ashley said...

It was a spectacular, compelling, heartfelt speech. In the face of so much political derision, it truly did make me believe again in the American democracy. And as jaded as we all are, that is truly an accomplishment. This is one for the ages.