I do not want to see the Republican party ride to political victory on the Four Horsemen of Calumny-fear, ignorance, bigotry and smear.
Margaret Chase SmithRead
My creed is that public service must be more than doing a job efficiently and honestly. It must be a complete dedication to the people and to the nation with full recognition that every human being is entitled to courtesy and consideration, that constructive criticism is not only to be expected but sought, that smears are not only to be expected but fought, that honor is to be earned, not bought.
Interpretation
Public service requires dedication to people and nation, valuing courtesy, constructive criticism, and earned honor.
This quote emphasizes that public service goes beyond mere efficiency and honesty; it demands a deep commitment to the well-being of citizens and the nation. Margaret Chase Smith highlights the importance of treating everyone with respect, welcoming constructive feedback, challenging negativity, and understanding that true honor is achieved through integrity rather than financial means.
In practice
In a speech about community engagement.
I do not want to see the Republican party ride to political victory on the Four Horsemen of Calumny-fear, ignorance, bigotry and smear.
The Senate has been debased to the level of a forum of hate and character assassination sheltered by the shield of congressional immunity.
One of the basic causes for all the trouble in the world today is that people talk too much and think too little. They act impulsively without thinking. I always try to think before I talk.
Smears are not only to be expected but fought. Honor is to be earned, not bought.
Every human being is entitled to courtesy and consideration. Constructive criticism is not only to be expected but sought.
Moral cowardice that keeps us from speaking our minds is as dangerous to this country as irresponsible talk.
Praise them for what they do well, both privately and publicly.
It is difficult for men in high office to avoid the malady of self-delusion. They are always surrounded by worshipers. They are constantly, and for the most part sincerely, assured of their greatness.
Women still have an uneasy relationship with power and the traits necessary to be a leader. There is this internalized fear that if we are really powerful, we are going to be considered ruthless or pushy or strident - all of those epithets that strike right at our femininity. We are still working at trying to overcome the fear that power and womanliness are mutually exclusive.
Want balance in your life? Then sure, get your own act together, but don't forget four powerful disciplines of execution in your team and organization.
Each one must do his part if we wish to show that the nation is worthy of its good fortune.
Organizations grow when they persuade a tiny cadre to be passionate, not when they touch millions with a mediocre message
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