Freedom prospers when religion is vibrant and the rule of law under God is acknowledged.
If some among you fear taking a stand because you are afraid of reprisals from customers, clients, or even government, recognize that you are just feeding the crocodile hoping he'll eat you last.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote encourages individuals to stand up for their beliefs despite potential backlash, suggesting that inaction can lead to greater dangers.
Ronald Reagan's quote uses the metaphor of feeding a crocodile to illustrate the consequences of not taking a stand against wrongdoings or injustices. By fearing reprisals and choosing inaction, individuals may inadvertently empower those who would do harm, ultimately leading to greater threats to their own safety and values. It serves as a reminder that facing challenges head-on is often necessary to avoid more harmful outcomes in the future.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about social justice, you might use this quote to encourage people to advocate for their rights.
More from Ronald Reagan
All quotes →Our status as a free society and world power is not based on brute strength. When we've taken up arms, it has been for the defense of freedom for ourselves and for other peaceful nations who needed our help. But now, faced with the development of weapons with immense destructive power, we've no choice but to maintain ready defense forces that are second to none. Yes, the cost is high, but the price of neglect would be infinitely higher.
I'm spending more time at this library in four days than I did at the Eureka College Library in four years.
I'm not a politician by profession. I am a citizen who decided I had to be personally involved in order to stand up for my own values and beliefs. My candidacy is based on my record, and for that matter, my entire life.
My fellow citizens, our nation is poised for greatness. We must do what we know is right, and do it with all our might. Let history say of us: "These were golden years - when the American Revolution was reborn, when freedom gained new life, and America reached for her best."
We must have faith in the people of this country and faith in our principles.
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