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
Let every American, every lover of liberty, every well wisher to his posterity, swear by the blood of the Revolution, never to violate in the least particular, the laws of the country; and never to tolerate their violation by others.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the importance of respecting and upholding the laws of the country for the sake of liberty and future generations.
Abraham Lincoln's quote serves as a powerful call to action for Americans to commit to the principles of law and order that underpin their freedom. By invoking the sacrifices made during the Revolution, Lincoln urges individuals to not only adhere to the laws but also to actively prevent others from breaching them, highlighting the collective responsibility taken by each citizen to maintain the integrity of their nation.
Themes
LibertyLawsResponsibilityRevolutionCitizenship
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about civic duty, a leader might use this quote to inspire commitment to the rule of law.
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.
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
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