Jimmy Carter, after a successful term as governor of Georgia, returned to his home in Plains. Instead of resuming full-time peanut farming, he embarked on an unlikely campaign for the presidency of the United States. His journey from “peanut farmer to president” was a quintessential “only in America” story, resonating with an electorate disillusioned by the Watergate scandal.
Four years later, Carter’s bid for a second term faced a different fate. His presidency was marred by challenges, starting with the energy crisis that caused gasoline prices to skyrocket and led to long lines at gas stations. The Iran hostage crisis, which concluded on his last day in office, seemed to signal the end of his political career. Despite his significant achievements and humanitarian efforts, many voters deemed him too ineffective to continue in office.
Time Magazine’s cover story on Carter includes a telling quote: “Jimmy Carter is the only person in history for whom the presidency was a stepping stone.”
On his last day in office, the message was clear: “Do this — not that.” His time in the White House had ended, but it marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life, one that would allow him to serve his country and live out his values in a different way.
In the 40 years following his presidency, Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter’s accomplishments nearly eclipsed his time in the White House.
Habitat for Humanity, founded in 1976, gained widespread recognition when Carter donned his tool belt and highlighted the U.S. housing crisis. His efforts mobilized thousands of volunteers and helped the nonprofit organization provide home ownership to countless families.
In 1982, the Carters established the Carter Center, which has undertaken numerous projects, including disease eradication, mental health advocacy and conflict resolution. The Center played a pivotal role in the global effort to eradicate Guinea worm disease, reducing the number of cases from millions in the late 1980s to just a handful in recent years. Jimmy Carter was also active in election monitoring, justice advocacy and peace negotiations worldwide.
In 2002, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Additionally, he became known as America’s most famous Sunday school teacher.
Jimmy Carter’s life teaches us that when we are forced to stop doing one thing, we can still find new ways to contribute. Whether it’s losing a job, facing early retirement, experiencing a debilitating illness, going through a divorce, losing an election or any other crisis, we can shift gears and begin anew. God is not through with us yet.
Who knows? This may turn out to be the best and most satisfying period of our life.
This column may include both fiction and nonfiction, and views expressed do not necessarily represent those of The SUN. Submissions can be sent to editor@pagosasun.com.