JFK was an optimist but not delusional - he called himself
"an idealist without illusions."
He was persevering and had an
"iron will" -- he refused to be pitied on the basis of his (life
threatening) health problems.
He was a proud man with a big ego, charismatic
and a "people person." He lived in the moment and made the most of
every opportunity, believing in the idea that "in crisis, be aware of the
danger but recognize the opportunity."
He was a conquering man, charming
and persuasive. He was in a way an eternal child, noncommittal and fun-loving.
He believed in seeking the truth but not in aimless, unjustified cynicism.
