We have gone forth from our shores repeatedly over the last hundred years and we've done this as recently as the last year in Afghanistan and put wonderful young men and women at risk, many of whom have lost their lives, and we have asked for nothing except enough ground to bury them in, and otherwise we have returned home to seek our own lives in peace.
Interpretation
The quote reflects on the sacrifices made by soldiers and their desire for peace after serving their country.
Colin Powell's quote underscores the profound sacrifices that armed forces members make during conflicts, emphasizing that they fight not for glory or recognition, but for the fundamental dignity of being able to rest in peace after their service. It highlights the stark contrast between the risks they undertake and the simplicity of their request to return home in safety, showcasing a deep respect for their commitment and the tragic consequences of war.
In practice
In a ceremony honoring veterans, this quote can be shared to acknowledge their sacrifices.
Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier. I am talking about a gung-ho attitude that says 'we can change things here, we can achieve awesome goals, we can be the best. 'Spare me the grim litany of the 'realist;' give me the unrealistic aspirations of the optimist any day.
One of the fondest expressions around is that we can't be the world's policeman. But guess who gets called when suddenly someone needs a cop.
Success is the result of perfection, hard work, learning from failure, loyalty, and persistence.
If you get the dirty end of the stick, sharpen it and turn it into a useful tool.
High-quality early-childhood programs and health coverage have expanded, and the number of mentoring relationships for at-risk youth has risen dramatically. That progress is encouraging, but it's not evenly distributed.
As I've thought about gay marriage, I don't see any reason not to say that [couples] should be able to get married.
I liked flying, when I got into it, loved it. And I found I was very good at it. I'm not modest about the fact that I was a good pilot.
We face up to awful things because we can't go around them, or forget them. The sooner you get it over with, the sooner you say 'Yes, it happened, and there's nothing I can do about it,' the sooner you can get on with your own life. You've got children to bring up. So you've got to get over it. What we have to get over, somehow we do. Even the worst things.
We live in a frightened time, and people self-censor all the time and are afraid of going into some subjects because they are worried about violent reactions.
We must free the slaves or be ourselves subdued.
Have the courage of your knowledge and experience. If you have formed a conclusion from the facts and if you know your judgment is sound, act on it – even though others may hesitate or differ.
If I still had my legs, I would be in line for a battalion command, and instead, I'm flying a desk.
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