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.
Abraham LincolnRead
If you wish to be a lawyer, attach no consequence to the place you are in, or the person you are with; but get books, sit down anywhere, and go to reading for yourself. That will make a lawyer of you quicker than any other way.
Interpretation
What this quote means
To become a lawyer, focus on self-education regardless of your current circumstances or company.
This quote emphasizes the importance of self-directed learning in the pursuit of becoming a lawyer. Abraham Lincoln suggests that one's environment or companions should not limit the pursuit of knowledge; rather, immersing oneself in study and reading is the key to mastering the legal profession more effectively than any other method.
Themes
EducationLawSelf-LearningReadingKnowledge
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about education, you could conclude with Lincoln's insight on self-study.
More from Abraham Lincoln
All quotes →Sir, my concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right.
Abraham LincolnRead
Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
Abraham LincolnRead
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.
Abraham LincolnRead
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.
Abraham LincolnRead
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The first time I read an excellent book, it is to me just as if I had gained a new friend. When I read a book over I have perused before, it resembles the meeting with an old one.
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