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
We live in the midst of alarms; anxiety beclouds the future; we expect some new disaster with each newspaper we read.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on the pervasive nature of anxiety and uncertainty in life, suggesting that constant alerts and fear can overshadow our outlook on the future.
Abraham Lincoln's quote captures the essence of human anxiety in a world filled with alarm and news of potential disasters. It suggests that the inundation of negative information creates a clouded perspective on the future, making it difficult for individuals to remain hopeful or see opportunities amid the chaos. Lincoln implies that this state of anxiety is a common experience, yet it also emphasizes the need to navigate through these uncertainties rather than being paralyzed by them.
Themes
AnxietyFutureDisasterNewsUncertaintyAlarms
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about overcoming anxiety in the workplace, this quote can highlight the impact of negative news.
More from Abraham Lincoln
All quotes βSir, 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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