We have the power to make this the best generation of mankind in the history of the world or to make it the last.

If we fail to encourage physical development and prowess, we will undermine our capcity for thought, for work, and for use of those skills vital to an expanding and complex America.

Everywhere immigrants have enriched and strengthened the fabric of American life.

So let us begin anew - remembering on both sides that civility is not a sign of weakness, and sincerity is always subject to proof

Philanthropy, charity, giving voluntarily and freely... call it what you like, but it is truly a jewel of an American tradition.

Nor problem of human destiny is beyond human beings.

Dont teach my boy poetry, an English mother recently wrote the Provost of Harrow. Dont teach my boy poetry; he is going to stand for Parliament. Well, perhaps she was rightbut if more politicians knew poetry, and more poets knew politics, I am convinced the world would be a little better place to live on this Commencement Day of 1956.