Trump's rhetoric makes JFK's legacy more relevant

It seems almost sacrilegious to hear Donald Trump’s and John Kennedy’s name mentioned in the same breath.

But that’s what happened last week, when news outlets covering Trump’s first overseas trip as commander in chief also marked what would’ve been JFK’s 100th birthday.

The two men couldn’t be more different in style, temperament or accomplishments. One has served just a little more than 100 chaotic days in office while the other was cut down in his prime by an assassin’s bullet.

Kennedy will be forever remembered for his inspiring, unselfish words and urging citizens to seek a way to serve others. Trump, on the other hand, will likely be remembered for inspiring fear and trepidation — for a border wall, a Muslim ban and turning immigrants into scapegoats.

For many, the Kennedy presidency was a breath of fresh air at a time of great turbulence. And though it was a far different time with far different challenges, the tenor of an era should never be the only measurement that defines a presidency. Oftentimes, it’s the commander in chief’s ability to bring people together and inspire hope and a commitment to ideals that are greater than themselves that has the most lasting impact.

That’s why Kennedy’s message, which is still relevant today, has been carried for generations.

Trump’s message, which he’s still formulating — God help us — is one that’s steeped in bravado and recklessness and starts with “I” and ends with “me.”

Unfortunately, there doesn’t appear to be a “we.”

Despite all the issues Kennedy faced, there still seemed to be that spirit of cooperation, respect, understanding and optimism that had Americans believing we could resolve our most pressing problems together.

Under Trump, many Americans aren’t feeling that unifying message that shaped Kennedy’s time in office.

Instead, thousands fear they’ll lose their health care while the rich are covered. Thousands of others are praying that Trump’s Muslim ban is thwarted and he’s kept from tearing immigrant families apart.

So, in honor of Kennedy’s 100th birthday, let’s keep his memory alive by standing strong in support of service to others and solidly against those who seek to tear us apart.