I'm a person who has always believed that you tell people the truth, and they'll make reasonable decisions. Truth is powerful.
John F. KerryRead
My definition of patriotism is to defend your country with the truth, no matter the consequences.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Patriotism involves defending one's country through honesty, regardless of potential repercussions.
In this quote, John F. Kerry emphasizes that true patriotism is rooted in the commitment to uphold truth, even when it leads to personal or political consequences. It suggests that the moral obligation to be truthful about one's nation should take precedence over blind loyalty, advocating for integrity and accountability as essential components of loving and serving one's country.
Themes
PatriotismTruthCourageIntegrityCountry
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about civic responsibility, one could reference this quote to highlight the importance of transparency in governance.
More from John F. Kerry
All quotes βConfronting climate change is, in the long run, one of the greatest challenges that we face, and you can see this duty or responsibility laid down in scriptures, clearly.
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Unlike Washington, which is stuck in ideological gridlock, Americans feel the impact of climate change in their own hometowns and they know something must be done.
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Here I am in the state of New Mexico. George Bush is still in the state of denial. New Mexico has five electoral votes. The state of denial has none. I like my chances.
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Democracy relies on free speech. Yes, say anything you want, but it relies even more on the speech being truthful. It is the truth, after all, that sets us free.
John F. KerryRead
War should be not a war of choice; it should be a war of necessity. And it should be a last resort.
John F. KerryRead
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Behind every American soldier, dozens of their countrymen tonight sleep soundly β and hundreds more in their shadow abroad will wake up alive and safe.
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