US Presidency
1961

Now the world will see whether we mean it or not whether America will remain the foremost economic power in the world or whether we will evacuate the field of power before a shot is fired, or go forth to meet new risks and tests of our ability. The hour of decision has arrived. We can not afford to wait and see what happens, while the tide of events sweeps over and beyond us. We must use time as a tool, not as a couch. We must carve out our own destiny. This is what Americans have always done- and this, I have every confidence, is what we will continue to do in each new trial and opportunity that lies ahead