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.
A warrior never gives in to fear when he is searching for what he needs. Without love, he is nothing.
Succeed in not fearing the lion, and the lion will fear YOU. Say to suffering, 'I will that you shall become a pleasure,' and it will prove to be such-- and even more than a pleasure, it will be a blessing.
Our country's honor calls upon us for a vigorous and manly exertion; and if we now shamefully fail, we shall become infamous to the whole world.
Beware; for I am fearless, and therefore powerful.
I have never been sorry when I stood for what was right-even against severe criticism.
Women are strong, strong, terribly strong. We don't know how strong until we are pushing out our babies. We are too often treated like babies having babies when we should be in training, like acolytes, novices to high priestesshood, like serious applicants for the space program.
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