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He who represents himself has a fool for a client
Abraham Lincoln
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote suggests that individuals should seek professional guidance rather than trying to handle complex matters on their own.

Abraham Lincoln's quote implies that representing oneself, especially in legal matters, is often unwise and can lead to poor outcomes. It highlights the necessity of expertise and professional advice in navigating difficult situations, emphasizing that without proper knowledge and experience, individuals may make foolish decisions that could have been avoided with the help of a professional.

Themes

RepresentationLawAdviceProfessionalismDecision-Making

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be used during a discussion about the importance of hiring professionals in complex situations.

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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.
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Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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