Heart and soul of the nation

the long version

Heart and Soul of the Nation explores how the spirituality of the First Ladies changed America. Using the biblical Beatitudes as a framework, author Cheryl Heckler-Feltz pieces together an intriguing patchwork quilt of stories about how these distinguished women have been a blessing to our nation. The First Ladies indeed embody the highest ideals: "Blessed are the poor in spirit...Blessed are those who mourn...Blessed are the meek...Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness...Blessed are the merciful...Blessed are the pure in heart...Blessed are the peacemakers...Blessed are those who are persecuted.". From the self-sacrifice of Martha Washington, who aided the wounded, cold, and hungry soldiers at Valley Forge, to the deep caring of Eleanor Roosevelt, who championed peace through the United Nations, to the indomitable spirit of Hillary Clinton, who has endured perhaps the most vicious personal attacks in the media, we get glimpses into the faith that made it possible for the First Ladies to survive the White House years. Through their words and deeds, as well as their counsel to the presidents, our First Ladies have shaped this nation and have left their mark on world history.