The colour of the skin is in no way connected with strength of the mind or intellectual powers.
Benjamin BannekerRead
I have no influence with the rising generation. All my arguments have failed to induce them to set bounds to their wants.
Interpretation
The quote reflects a sense of frustration with the younger generation's insatiable desires and lack of restraint.
Benjamin Banneker expresses his concern about the rising generation's inability to limit their desires. He feels that despite his efforts to reason with them, they remain unyielding, illustrating a generational divide in values and priorities regarding moderation and self-control.
In practice
This quote can be used in a discussion about generational gaps at a community meeting.
The colour of the skin is in no way connected with strength of the mind or intellectual powers.
Let a Secretary of Peace be appointed.
Presumption should never make us neglect that which appears easy to us, nor despair make us lose courage at the sight of difficulties.
It is the indispensable duty of those, who maintain for themselves the rights of human nature, and who possess the obligations of Christianity, to extend their power and influence to the relief of every part of the human race from whatever burden or oppression they may unjustly labor under.
Evil communication corrupts good manners. I hope to live to hear that good communication corrects bad manners.
The only thing we have to fear on this planet is man.
He who does not at some time, with definite determination consent to the terribleness of life, or even exalt in it, never takes possession of the inexpressible fullness of the power of our existence.
Virtue is like a rich stone, best plain set.
I am much inclined to live from my rucksack, and let my trousers fray as they like.
The good in this world far outweighs the evil. Our common humanity transcends our differences, and our most effective response to terror is compassion, it's unity, and it's love.
Psychoanalysis has a degree of unreliability about it. You will never know whether you've found the truth. You may find a subjective truth, but you don't know.
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