Our Living Room

I grew up in a wealthy family that was proud of its Irish Catholic background. My parents taught that “with money comes great responsibility.” My mother often quoted from the Bible, saying “to whom much is given, much is to be expected.” We relaxed in our living room, but it was also a place to learn.

As you look at the photographs of objects in our living room, what do you think our parents were trying to teach us?

My parents had high expectations and wanted us to be the best in whatever we did. One of my mother’s expectations was that we should all be on time for dinner. What types of expectations do your parents or guardians have of you?

Connection to the future:

Before becoming President, I served in the U.S. Navy, the U.S. House of Representatives, and the U.S. Senate. As President, I started a program called the Peace Corps so that Americans could help people in other countries. I wanted Americans to be good citizens at home and abroad.