I am like a man so busy in letting rooms in one end of his house, that he can't stop to put out the fire that is burning the other.
Abraham LincolnRead
To the best of my judgment, I have labored for, and not against, the Union. As I have not felt, so I have not expressed any harsh sentiment towards our Southern brethren. I have constantly declared, as I really believed, the only difference between them and us is the difference of circumstances.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes understanding and unity despite differences in circumstances.
In this quote, Abraham Lincoln reflects on his commitment to the Union during a time of division in the United States. He expresses a belief in the equal humanity of those on both sides of the conflict, suggesting that the primary divide is rooted in differing circumstances rather than inherent differences in character or values. This perspective promotes empathy and reconciliation rather than hostility.
Themes
UnionUnderstandingEmpathyReconciliationCircumstances
In practice
Example use cases
A speaker at a peace conference might use this quote to highlight the importance of understanding different perspectives.
More from Abraham Lincoln
All quotes →Sir, my concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right.
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Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
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How many legs does a dog have if you call the tail a leg? Four. Calling a tail a leg doesn't make it a leg.
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For it has been said, all that a man hath will he give for his life; and while all contribute of their substance the soldier puts his life at stake, and often yields it up in his country's cause. The highest merit, then is due to the soldier.
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And having thus chosen our course, without guile, and with pure purpose, let us renew our trust in God, and go forward without fear, and with manly hearts.
Abraham LincolnRead
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