“We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea, whether it is to sail or to watch – we are going back from whence we came.”
- May 29, 1917 – November 22, 1963
- American
- Politician
- As the 35th President of the United States, he overcame the Cuban Missile Crisis and averted nuclear war, and promoted the Apollo program, laying the foundation for American space exploration.
Quote
“We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea, whether it is to sail or to watch – we are going back from whence we came.”
Explanation
In this reflective statement, John F. Kennedy speaks to the deep, almost primal connection between humanity and the ocean. The sea, for Kennedy, is more than just a physical body of water; it is a symbol of origin and destiny. By saying that we are “going back from whence we came,” he evokes the idea that the ocean represents a return to our roots—a place of beginning and reconnection. Historically, the sea has been integral to human exploration, trade, and even migration, representing both the mystery of the unknown and the promise of discovery.
Kennedy’s words could also be interpreted as a reminder of humanity’s evolutionary origins—the sea as the birthplace of life itself. From a scientific perspective, life is believed to have begun in the primordial oceans, and thus, returning to the sea could be seen as returning to our origins on a deeper, almost biological level. Beyond this, the sea is a powerful symbol of renewal and continuity, and the act of returning to it, whether through sailing or simply observing, symbolizes a reconnection with something vast, timeless, and uncontrollable—a reminder of nature’s immense power and beauty.
This reflection on the ocean is also tied to Kennedy’s personal affinity for the Navy, having served as a naval officer during World War II. The ocean, for him, was both a physical frontier and a metaphor for challenges that require courage and adventure. In the context of his presidency, Kennedy’s words take on a dual significance: as a call to explore new frontiers, whether in space or on Earth, while also urging respect and understanding for the natural world that sustains us. His statement serves as a reminder of our humble beginnings and the ongoing relationship between humanity and the vast, uncharted waters that are still a part of us, whether we are seeking answers or simply witnessing the beauty of the world around us.
