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
The better part of one's life consists of his friendships.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True fulfillment in life comes from the relationships we build and cherish.
In this quote, Abraham Lincoln reflects on the profound impact that friendships have on our lives. He suggests that the essence and joy of life are largely derived from the connections we form with others, indicating that our bonds with friends contribute significantly to our overall happiness and sense of purpose.
Themes
FriendshipRelationshipsLifeHappinessConnections
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech about the importance of community, I might say, 'As Abraham Lincoln noted, the better part of one's life consists of his friendships.'
More from Abraham Lincoln
All quotes βSir, 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.
Abraham LincolnRead
Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
Abraham LincolnRead
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.
Abraham LincolnRead
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.
Abraham LincolnRead
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
Similar quotes
The nearest friends can go With anyone to death, comes so far short They might as well not try to go at all.
Robert FrostRead
So far be distant; and good night, sweet friend: thy love ne'er alter, till they sweet life end
William ShakespeareRead
Loving friendships provide us with a space to experience the joy of community in a relationship where we learn to process all our issues, to cope with differences and conflict while staying connected.
Bell HooksRead
It is somethingit can be everything-to have found a fellow bird with whom you can sit among the rafters while the drinking and boasting and reciting and fighting go on below.
Wallace StegnerRead
Best friend, my well-spring in the wilderness!
George EliotRead
But sometimes it's like you just meet someone and you just know that you're totally connected, and this person is, like, your brother - or your sister. Even if they don't, like, recognize it, you feel it. And in a lot of ways it don't matter if they do or they don't see that for what it is - all you can do is put the feeling out there. That's your duty. Then you just wait and see what comes back to you. That's the deal.
Zadie SmithRead