But did you know that another significant figure also died that same day, November 22 1963? Clive Staples Lewis, more commonly referred to as C.S. Lewis. His writings, both fiction and non-fiction, and all faith based, have been circulating for many years, although the re-introduction of the Narnia series, and the accompanying film, probably got him more attention than in the past. Obviously, his death, from renal failure, was passed over for more significant events that day, but his legacy lives on and has perhaps reached an audience that might not have been expected.
I would be remiss if not to mention JFK on this memorial day. I remember it too well, even though only 6 years old at the time, in first grade. It was a dark day, and the swirl of events and theories abounds. Having visited there with my daughter last summer, it is still eerie.
The discussion around the character, flaws, tendencies, and strengths of John F Kennedy is endless, as are the theories about his untimely passing. If you have ever visited the gravesite and seen the eternal flame burning, you know his life meant something, His presidency was only 34 months, but some of his quotes are also eternal.
- "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country."
- And the lesser known "My fellow citizens of the world: ask not what America will do for you, but what together we can do for the freedom of man."
Kennedy's constant message of peace, cooperation, fulfillment, and purpose, whether it be to the moon, or just to the next door neighbor, continues to remind us that we are here for a reason. And the best use of our space on earth would be to find that purpose, and use it for the Greater Good.
