Journalism still, in a democracy, is the essential force to get the public educated and mobilized to take action on behalf of our ancient ideals.
Doris Kearns GoodwinRead
Those who knew Lincoln described him as an extraordinarily funny man. Humor was an essential aspect of his temperament. He laughed, he explained, so he did not weep.
Interpretation
Humor served as a coping mechanism for Lincoln, allowing him to stay resilient in difficult times.
This quote reflects the importance of humor in Abraham Lincoln's life, highlighting how it was not just an aspect of his personality but a necessary tool for emotional resilience. Doris Kearns Goodwin emphasizes that Lincoln's ability to laugh helped him maintain his composure and avoid despair, revealing a deeper truth about the role of humor in overcoming adversity.
In practice
During a speech about the importance of resilience, one might quote Lincoln to highlight how laughter can help overcome challenges.
Journalism still, in a democracy, is the essential force to get the public educated and mobilized to take action on behalf of our ancient ideals.
We've got to figure out a way that we give a private sphere for our public leaders. We're not gonna get the best people in public life if we don't do that.
Once a president gets to the White House, the only audience that is left that really matters is history.
That is what leadership is all about: staking your ground ahead of where opinion is and convincing people, not simply following the popular opinion of the moment.
I am a historian. With the exception of being a wife and mother, it is who I am. And there is nothing I take more seriously.
Obama does seem to have what both FDR and Lincoln had, which is the recognition that you have to hold back at times and then wait to come forward.
I don't know how to tell a joke. I never tell jokes. I can tell stories that happened to me... anecdotes. But never a joke.
I don't believe in dying. It's been done. I'm working on a new exit. Besides, I can't die now - I'm booked.
I am paid by the word, so I always write the shortest words possible.
You have to have a passionate opinion; otherwise you sound false. You end up telling the audience jokes they've already heard.
I have no wish to talk nonsense." "If you did, it would be in such a grave, quiet manner, I should mistake it for sense.
I think if you come from a history of persecution you have to develop a sense of humour.
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