Historic: A moment that changed a nation

It was a different world then. People were a bit more sheltered, a bit more trusting.

So when the news of President John F. Kennedy's assassination hit, it resonated like a nuclear bomb -- leaving people unsure, sad and wondering how something so horrible could happen.

Kennedy's death changed a nation.

And as we remember that day in 1963 today, we can only wonder what might have been -- and how the course of this nation would have been different if there had been a different ending to that trip to Dallas.

But there are positive memories from the Kennedy years -- stories of a first family that captured the nation's heart and a son and daughter who carried out their father's legacy of service.

This is a day for sadness, sure.

But it is also a day for inspiration -- a reminder of a man who asked his fellow citizens to "ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country."

Immortal words that still matter today.

Published in Editorials on November 22, 2013 10:26 AM