Ethel Kennedy Quotes

Powerful Ethel Kennedy for Daily Growth

About Ethel Kennedy

Ethel Skakel Kennedy, born on February 11, 1928, in Boston, Massachusetts, was an American socialite, philanthropist, and the second wife of Senator Robert F. Kennedy. She was a significant figure in American politics and society due to her marriage into the Kennedy family and her own charitable works. Ethel Kennedy's life was marked by tragedy and triumph. After graduating from Miss Porter's School in Connecticut, she worked as a flight attendant before marrying Robert F. Kennedy in 1950. The couple had eleven children together, five of whom preceded RFK in death. Ethel Kennedy was deeply influenced by her husband's political career, accompanying him on campaign trails and standing by his side during the tumultuous 1960s. After Robert's assassination in 1968, she continued to be a strong presence in American politics, promoting her husband's legacy and advocating for various causes such as education, health care, and human rights. Ethel Kennedy's major works extend beyond the political sphere. She co-authored the book "The Expressway of Hope: A Memoir" with her daughter Kerry Kennedy in 2017, offering a deeply personal account of her life with Robert F. Kennedy and their family. As a philanthropist, she founded the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights organization in 1983 to continue her husband's work advocating for human rights worldwide. Ethel Kennedy also co-founded the Robert F. Kennedy Children's Action Corps, which provides support services to disadvantaged children and families in Massachusetts. Ethel Kennedy's life has been a testament to resilience, love, and commitment to service. Despite personal tragedies and public scrutiny, she has continued to advocate for the causes close to her heart, making a significant impact on American politics and society.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"We must remember that each time a man opens his mouth to hate another man, an angel loses its wings."

This quote emphasizes the negative impact of hatred on not only individuals but also the world at large. Each instance of hate speech or actions causes a loss, symbolized by the falling of an angel's wing. The metaphorical angels represent peace, compassion, and unity among people. When we choose to speak or act with hatred, it diminishes these virtues, making the world a less harmonious place. It encourages us to promote love, understanding, and kindness instead, fostering a more inclusive and peaceful society.


"As long as there are words, there is hope."

This quote emphasizes the power of communication and expression in fostering hope. It suggests that as long as people can express their thoughts, feelings, and ideas through words, they have a chance to inspire change, challenge injustice, and bring about a brighter future. In essence, Ethel Kennedy's words convey a sense of optimism and resilience, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, the human capacity for dialogue can offer a beacon of hope.


"We cannot heal in silence and hiding. We have to find the strength within ourselves to speak out."

This quote by Ethel Kennedy emphasizes the importance of breaking silence and speaking out about personal struggles or social issues for healing. It suggests that internalizing problems without expressing them can hinder the process of healing, as it keeps individuals isolated and hidden from potential support systems. By finding the courage to speak up, one can tap into their inner strength and contribute to a larger community of voices addressing the same issues, fostering understanding, empathy, and ultimately, healing.


"Family is not a place to hide from the world; family is a place to go out into the world."

Ethel Kennedy's quote implies that families are not merely private sanctuaries for personal growth, but rather, they serve as launching pads for individuals to venture out into the larger world with strength, support, and the values instilled within them. Family provides a foundation of love, guidance, and encouragement that equips members to face challenges and contribute positively to society. This quote underscores the idea that families should foster resilience, compassion, and engagement in their children, enabling them to make a meaningful impact on the world.


"Hate is too great a burden to bear. It injures the hater more than it injures the hated."

This quote suggests that harboring hate not only causes harm to others, but it also inflicts deeper damage upon the person carrying this emotion. The burden of hatred is so heavy that it outweighs any potential pain inflicted on the object of one's hatred. Embracing hate perpetuates a negative cycle and ultimately hinders personal growth and well-being. Instead, focusing on empathy, understanding, and love can lead to peace and healing for both parties involved.


When we lost Bobby, I would wake up in the morning and think, 'He's OK. He's in Heaven, and he's with Jack and a lot of my brothers and sisters and my parents.' So it made it very easy to get through the day thinking he was OK.

- Ethel Kennedy

Through, Brothers, Very, OK

The Kennedys were very organized. Dinner was always served at 7:15, and if you were a minute late, it really wasn't worth it. In my family, you never knew when dinner was going to be. It could be at 7, or it could be at 10.

- Ethel Kennedy

Late, Worth, Very, Kennedys

Introspection! I hate it!

- Ethel Kennedy

Hate, Introspection

If you're searching for quotes on a different topic, feel free to browse our Topics page or explore a diverse collection of quotes from various Authors to find inspiration.