Get correct views of life, and learn to see the world in its true light. It will enable you to live pleasantly, to do good, and, when summoned away, to leave without regret.
Robert E. LeeRead
With all my devotion to the Union, and the feeling of loyalty and duty of an American citizen, I have not been able to make up my mind to raise my hand against my relative, my children, my home. I have, therefore, resigned my commission in the Army.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects the internal conflict between duty to one's country and loyalty to family.
In this quote, Robert E. Lee expresses his deep devotion to the Union, but ultimately prioritizes his loyalty to his family and home over his military obligations. This highlights the struggles one may face when personal loyalties clash with societal duties, illustrating the idea that sometimes, difficult choices must be made based on personal convictions rather than public expectations.
Themes
LoyaltyDutyFamilyConflictCourage
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a discussion about the sacrifices individuals make for their families.
More from Robert E. Lee
All quotes →Life Insurance trusts I consider sacred. To hazard the property of the dead & to lose the scanty earnings of fathers & husbands, who have toiled & saved that they may leave something to their families deprived of their care & the support of their labour, is to my mind the worst of crimes.
Robert E. LeeRead
It is easier to make our wishes conform to our means than to make our means conform to our wishes.
Robert E. LeeRead
So far from engaging in a war to perpetuate slavery, I am rejoiced that Slavery is abolished. I believe it will be greatly for the interest of the South. So fully am I satisfied of this that I would have cheerfully lost all that I have lost by the war, and have suffered all that I have suffered to have this object attained.
Robert E. LeeRead
Our country demands all our strength, all our energies. To resist the powerful combination now forming against us will require every man at his place. If victorious, we will have everything to hope for in the future. If defeated, nothing will be left for us to live for.
Robert E. LeeRead
Lee tells his troops. After four years of arduous service marked by unsurpassed courage and fortitude the Army of Northern Virginia has been compelled to yield to overwhelming numbers and resources.
Robert E. LeeRead
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