The fight for justice against corruption is never easy. It never has been and never will be. It exacts a toll on our self, our families, our friends, and especially our children. In the end, I believe, as in my case, the price we pay is well worth holding on to our dignity.
Interpretation
Fighting against corruption is challenging, but maintaining dignity is worth the struggle.
Frank Serpico's quote emphasizes the inherent difficulties involved in the battle for justice against corruption. He acknowledges that this struggle can impact not only the individual but also their loved ones, particularly children, yet he believes that preserving one's dignity through this fight ultimately justifies the sacrifices made.
In practice
During a speech on civil rights, this quote can highlight the importance of fighting for justice.
I belong to a nation which over the past centuries has experienced many hardships and reverses. The world reacted with silence or with mere sympathy when Polish frontiers were crossed by invading armies and the sovereign state had to succumb to brutal force.
We used to watch my father, who was a civil-rights activist, get arrested on TV sometimes, and we never knew if he was going to be home for dinner.
We are so resilient as a people. I have so much respect for their dignity and courage. I hope the world sees this side of Pakistan, one where professionals want a democracy. The spirit of our intelligentsia cannot be broken.
Sexuality and gender don't change anyone's performance on the court.
I cannot sit idly by in Atlanta and not be concerned about what happens in Birmingham.
Not the torturer will scare me, nor the body's final fall, nor the barrels of death's rifles, nor the shadows on the wall, nor the night when to the ground the last dim star of pain, is hurled but the blind indifference of a merciless, unfeeling world.
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