I have never known any distress that an hour's reading did not relieve.
Baron De MontesquieuRead
Love of the republic in a democracy, is a love of the democracy; love of the democracy is that of equality. Love of the democracy is likewise that of frugality.
Interpretation
True love for a democracy encompasses a deep respect for equality and simplicity in governance.
This quote by Montesquieu highlights the interconnected nature of love for a republic, democracy, and the fundamental principles of equality and frugality that support a just society. It suggests that genuine affection for democratic ideals entails valuing equal rights among citizens and a careful, modest approach to governance, ensuring that the people's needs are prioritized over extravagance and inequality.
In practice
During a speech about civic duty, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of valuing democracy.
I have never known any distress that an hour's reading did not relieve.
Law in general is human reason, inasmuch as it governs all the inhabitants of the earth: the political and civil laws of each nation ought to be only the particular cases in which human reason is applied.
To become truly great, one has to stand with people, not above them.
It is not the young people that degenerate; they are not spoiled till those of mature age are already sunk into corruption.
If you would be holy, instruct your children, because all the good acts they perform will be imputed to you.
Trade is the best cure for prejudice.
Every moment happens twice: inside and outside, and they are two different histories.
Cure yourself of the inclination to bother about how you look to other people. Be concerned only . . . with the idea God has of you.
Beauty is worse than wine, it intoxicates both the holder and beholder.
By helping readers understand these mechanics, I hope they will appreciate why freedom is for everyone, why it is essential for our security and why the free world plays a critically important role in advancing democracy around the globe.
Your hearts know in silence the secrets of the days and the nights.
Often times we call a man [or woman] cold when he [or she] is only sad.
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