Everybody who went to Vietnam carries his or her own version of the war. Only 10 percent engaged in combat; the American elephant, pursuing the Vietnamese grasshopper, was extraordinarily heavy with logistical support.
Pete HamillRead
Too many people take New York for granted. The primary reason is that history is not taught. That's outrageous in a city where the past is still visible.
Interpretation
People often overlook the historical significance of New York City due to a lack of historical education.
In this quote, Pete Hamill emphasizes the importance of recognizing and appreciating the rich history that shapes the identity of New York City. He argues that the cityβs past, which remains evident in its architecture, culture, and traditions, deserves attention and understanding, and that neglecting to teach this history leads to a diminished appreciation for the city itself.
In practice
During a lecture on urban history, this quote can be used to highlight the significance of educating people about the history of major cities.
Everybody who went to Vietnam carries his or her own version of the war. Only 10 percent engaged in combat; the American elephant, pursuing the Vietnamese grasshopper, was extraordinarily heavy with logistical support.
Just like that. Gone forever. They will not grow old together. They will never live on a beach by the sea, their hair turned white, dancing in a living room to Billie Holiday or Nat Cole. They will not enter a New York club at midnight and show the poor hip-hop fools how to dance. They will not chuckle together over the endless folly of the world, its vanities and stupid ambitions. They will not hug each other in any chilly New York dawn. Oh, Mary Lou. My baby. My love.
We save the world by being alive ourselves.
There's an old saying that God made us in His image, and we've been trying to return the favor ever since. People often view God in a human image. This God changes His mind, gets upset, answers some prayers but not others, loves some people but not others. But even with that limited image, if we pray sincerely, we'll eventually realize that God is changeless. He's the same all the time because He's not in time-time is in Him.
Liberty is not just an idea, an abstract principle. It is power, effective power to do specific things. There is no such thing as liberty in general; liberty, so to speak, at large.
In order to deal with reality successfully - to pursue and achieve the values which his life requires - man needs self-esteem; he needs to be confident of his efficacy and worth.
I cannot in all conscience agree to anyone being sent to the gallows. God alone can take life because He alone gives it . . .
While all doctors treat diseases, neurosurgeons' work is the crucible of identity. Every operation on the brain is, by necessity, a manipulation of the substance of our selves.
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