Caroline Kennedy: 'In my family in particular, I think, there was a sense we have to work twice as hard.'

In my family in particular, I think, there was a sense we have to work twice as hard.

Caroline Kennedy's quote, "In my family in particular, I think, there was a sense we have to work twice as hard," succinctly encapsulates the ethos of her illustrious family. The quote, at its core, emphasizes the belief that exceptional achievement requires a level of perseverance and dedication beyond what is typically expected. It stems from a recognition that circumstances may not always be easy or fair, and that overcoming hurdles necessitates a greater investment of effort and resilience. This notion is particularly relevant for the Kennedy family, given their legacy of public service and the immense expectations placed upon them.Caroline Kennedy's acknowledgement of the need to work twice as hard reflects not only her personal experience but also that of her prominent family members. The Kennedy family has been central to American political history, and their commitment to serving the public good is well-known. However, their journey to success has been beset with numerous challenges and tragedies. From the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy and Senator Robert F. Kennedy to other personal setbacks, the Kennedys have faced immense adversity. Therefore, the idea of working twice as hard is deeply ingrained within their family philosophy, stemming from a shared understanding that success often necessitates surpassing formidable barriers.While the concept of working twice as hard might seem straightforward, it offers an intriguing platform to explore a different philosophical perspective. Consider the ancient Greek concept of "arete," which encompasses excellence in one's character and the pursuit of virtuous conduct. Though seemingly unrelated, the idea of working twice as hard and striving for arete share a common thread - the belief that true fulfillment is attained through relentless effort and the pursuit of personal excellence.When comparing the Kennedy family's perspective on working twice as hard to the concept of arete, contrasting themes emerge. Arete, rooted in ancient wisdom, emphasizes the development of one's inner qualities and the pursuit of a virtuous life. It extols the importance of ethics, moral integrity, and personal growth above simply surpassing external obstacles. On the other hand, working twice as hard, while acknowledging the existence of obstacles, focuses primarily on the external factors that require surpassing. It stresses the importance of perseverance and dedication in the face of adversity, utilizing external accomplishments as a measure of success.However, these seemingly divergent concepts are not mutually exclusive. In fact, they can coexist, intertwining to cultivate a profound philosophy of personal growth and achievement. Working twice as hard can be seen as a stepping stone on the path to arete - a necessary foundation that enables individuals to develop their character and strive for virtuous conduct. By overcoming external challenges through relentless effort, one can build the resilience, discipline, and integrity essential for the embodiment of arete.Caroline Kennedy's poignant quote provides a window into the Kennedy family's extraordinary legacy, underlining their commitment to hard work and perseverance. While this philosophy aligns with the idea of working twice as hard, a deeper exploration reveals its resonance with the ancient concept of arete. By juxtaposing these two perspectives, it becomes evident that working twice as hard and striving for personal excellence are not inherently contradictory but rather complementary. Both emphasize the importance of perseverance, endeavor, and self-improvement in the pursuit of a purposeful and fulfilled life.