When former President Jimmy Carter passed away at his residence in Plains, Georgia, the former president, aged 100, was receiving hospice care, choosing to depart life on his own terms. After losing his bid for reelection in 1980 due to a struggling economy and the Iran Hostage crisis overshadowing his accomplishments, Carter dedicated the next four decades to a life of service and setting an example. During this time, he participated in three interviews with 60 Minutes, reflecting on his journey from the White House to his return to Plains. Insights gleaned from these conversations over the years shed light on various aspects of Carter’s presidency and personal assessments.
In a pivotal interview on the eve of the 1980 Democratic National Convention, Carter, facing challenges from within his party and contenders from opposition parties, discussed the ongoing Iran Hostage crisis and the economic hardships plaguing the nation. Despite the immense pressure, Carter remained resolute, emphasizing the responsibility of the president and expressing confidence in his leadership. In evaluating his own performance, Carter displayed a self-awareness that extended beyond mere politicking, giving himself mixed grades in different areas while maintaining optimism about his political future.
Following his defeat to Ronald Reagan in 1980, Carter gracefully accepted the outcome and returned to Georgia with his family, embracing a simpler life away from Washington. Despite the disappointment of losing the election, Carter found solace in the eventual release of the American hostages on Reagan’s inauguration day. His journey from the White House to his quiet hometown exemplified a transition marked by resilience and a commitment to serving others.
Reagan easily won re-election in 1984, maintaining his popularity and projecting an image of strength and competence that Carter lacked. By this time, Carter found himself once again on the outskirts of politics, similar to the start of his career in Georgia. In a 1985 interview with Mike Wallace, Carter expressed that he did not feel envious of Reagan’s so-called “teflon presidency,” contrasting it with his own “flypaper presidency.” Carter criticized Reagan for shirking responsibility and abandoning the U.S. commitment to human rights, which tarnished the country’s global reputation. Rosalynn Carter added that Reagan’s leadership encouraged prejudice.
Three decades later, in 2010, Lesley Stahl visited Carter to discuss his post-presidential life, which was now celebrated for his human rights advocacy through the Carter Center and his involvement with Habitat for Humanity. In his book “White House Diary,” Carter took aim at Ted Kennedy for blocking healthcare legislation and criticized Reagan for enabling a resurgence of racism and selfishness. He also had strong words for Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. Carter admitted to writing a letter to the U.N. urging them to vote against the U.S.’s war against Saddam Hussein, a decision he stood by. Despite leading a modest life, Carter believed that his values and accomplishments would be appreciated in the long run. He emphasized his commitment to peace and his reluctance towards war, even if public perception favored a president’s image through military action.
“Lessons Learned from COVID-19 Testing: How Japanese Mochi Unites Communities in America”
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped our daily lives in countless ways. One unexpected outcome has been the way in which traditional Japanese mochi has brought communities in America together during these challenging times.
Mochi, a chewy rice cake made from pounded glutinous rice, has long been a beloved treat in Japan and has gained popularity around the world. In the United States, Japanese Americans and food enthusiasts have continued to enjoy and share this delicacy, but its significance has taken on new meaning in the wake of the global health crisis.
As the pandemic forced communities to adapt to new norms, individuals and organizations found creative ways to stay connected while adhering to social distancing guidelines. In many cities across America, local businesses began to offer mochi-making kits and virtual workshops as a means of bringing people together in a shared culinary experience.
The act of making mochi requires teamwork and collaboration, as participants must work together to knead the sticky rice dough and shape it into delectable treats. This hands-on approach to food preparation has provided a sense of joy and togetherness during a time when physical gatherings are limited.
Furthermore, the cultural significance of mochi has served as a bridge between generations, fostering a sense of continuity and tradition in the face of uncertainty. Families have come together to pass down age-old recipes and techniques, creating lasting memories and strengthening bonds in the process.
Beyond its culinary appeal, mochi has also served as a symbol of resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. By embracing this traditional Japanese treat, communities in America have demonstrated their ability to find comfort and connection in the midst of hardship.
As the world continues to navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic, the lessons learned from COVID-19 testing and the enduring spirit of Japanese mochi serve as a reminder of the power of community and shared experiences in overcoming adversity. Through the act of coming together over a simple yet profound food tradition, individuals have found solace and strength in each other, reinforcing the bonds that hold us all together in times of need.
